New enka single release [August 2024]

Ruby TimeYamamoto Kazue

Kazue Yamamoto “Ruby Time” MUSIC VIDEO

A wistful melody and Latin rhythms resonate in the heart.

This song by Kazue Yamamoto, a singer from Maizuru City in Kyoto Prefecture, was released in July 2024.

As her second single after moving to Crown, it drew significant attention.

It portrays the aching feelings of thinking about one’s destined person during late-night solitude, tightening the chest.

If you want to empathize with the emotions of a woman swayed by love, please take your time and give it a listen.

A drop of tearsToukyou Rikisha

Tokyo Rickshaw “A Drop of Tears” Music Video

A song by Tokyo Rikisha, distinguished by its emotive, powerful vocals.

This kayōkyoku number, woven by a unit of rickshaw pullers based in Asakusa, conveys the poignant feelings of a man in love.

The lyrics were written by Kazuya Sakai of Junretsu, and the track was released in August 2024.

The earnest desire of a man who wants to convey his feelings to the one he loves—even if it means giving up everything—strikes a chord.

This work masterfully balances the unique strength and delicacy characteristic of Tokyo Rikisha.

It’s a song that will stay close to your heart at life’s crossroads or when facing a farewell with someone important.

road; way; path; street; route; Tao (in philosophy)Jun Katsuragi

road; way; path; street; route; Tao (in philosophy)

While steadfastly upholding the powerful, classic spirit of enka, Jun Katsuragi creates songs that resonate with today’s listeners.

This work is an inspiring anthem that portrays life’s journey.

The lyrics—rich with images of rough, bumpy roads and steep mountain passes—leave a strong impression, powerfully expressing the resolve to press forward with one’s own pride and convictions.

Realistically depicting life’s complexities and hardships while conveying hope, the song is crafted to particularly resonate with middle-aged and older audiences.

Released in August 2024, this track—featured on the album alongside the simultaneously announced “Hakodate Elegy”—is highly recommended for those striving to overcome difficulties or standing at a crossroads in life.

The Harbor of Lingering AffectionMori Shinichi

The Harbor of Lingering Affection

Set against a melancholic port town, this song gives voice to a heartrending love.

Released in July 2024, it marks the 130th single in the artist’s career.

Crafted by the same team behind the 2003 release “Ai no Kawa,” it is a gem of a piece.

The imagery unfolds like a scene from a film: you can picture a woman waiting for her lover on the pier, buffeted by the cold sea breeze.

A heart lost in the maze of lingering attachment—carried by Shinichi Mori’s vocals, it delivers a deeply moving resonance that seeps into the soul.

self-conceitHama Hiroya

Hiroya Hama “Hitoriyogari” Music Video

A Latin-flavored kayōkyoku that sings of aching love.

It’s Hama Hiroya’s new single, released in August 2024.

While it centers on themes of attachment and lament in love, it’s crafted so it doesn’t feel heavy.

Hama’s distinctive, subtly entwining vocal style is on full display, delivering a performance that seeps into the listener’s heart.

Shortly after the release, on August 26, a launch event was held at AEON Mall Kita-Toda in Saitama Prefecture.

The contrast between the Latin-style rhythmic arrangement and the melancholic lyrics is striking.

It’s likely to resonate with anyone struggling in love.

Senju BluesAtsumi Jirō · Kajiwara Akira

Jiro Atsumi & Akira Kajiwara / Senju Blues

A song in an enka style infused with blues elements, created through the collaboration of Jiro Atsumi and Akira Kajiwara.

It vividly portrays the streets of Senju in Tokyo and the lives of its people with rich emotion.

The lyrics, where bittersweet feelings and gratitude intersect, are sure to resonate deeply with listeners.

This work was released on July 24, 2024, as a commemorative release marking Jiro Atsumi’s 50th anniversary as a singer.

It also includes past classics, making it an essential album for fans.

Among Atsumi’s repertoire of over 1,000 songs, this piece holds a special place.

Highly recommended for those who want to feel the charm of Tokyo’s old downtown or reflect on the subtleties of life.

Agano River Boat SongSawa Keiko

Keiko Sawa “Agano River Boat Song” Music Video

A heartfelt enka song portraying the beautiful scenery of Niigata has been born.

Released by Keiko Sawa in August 2024, this work is a warm-hearted piece themed around a boat ride on the Agano River.

Listeners will be captivated by its gentle, river-like melody and Sawa’s emotionally rich vocals.

Imbued with a respect for local culture and history, it’s a track that conveys deep hometown pride.

The lyrics, which evoke the charm of river boating and the lives of people along the riverbanks, are also captivating.

Sung with a longing for home, this song is recommended for those who feel nostalgic for their hometown landscapes.