New Enka Single Release [February 2025]

South… spring and summerYoshi Ikuzo

Ikuzo Yoshi “Nanbu… Spring and Summer” [Official] | Full Chorus MV

This is an emotionally rich song that delicately portrays the changing seasons of the Tohoku region.

Released in January 2025, it features words woven by Ikuzo Yoshi with deep love for his hometown—words that are sure to move you.

Traditional chants and place names appear throughout, vividly conjuring the local scenery.

Why not listen to it when you’re feeling nostalgic or want to think of someone dear? It will surely touch your heart.

A drop of the great riverŌkawa Eisaku

A drop of the great river

Small efforts accumulating into a mighty river… This work sings a life philosophy that resonates with the heart.

Released in February 2025 as Eisaka Okawa’s 110th single, it delivers the message that “everyday experiences enrich our lives” over a gentle, soothing melody.

Okawa’s deep, resonant voice is sure to move you.

A powerful anthem that gives you the courage to look ahead.

A man should just cry in silence.Miyashita Kenji

Kenji Miyashita “Men Should Cry in Silence” [Melody Records] Official Performance Video

A passionate new work marking the re-debut of veteran enka composer Kenji Miyashita as a singer.

This gem portrays the melancholy of men living through the Showa era, powerfully expressing deep-seated emotions and struggles.

While honoring the traditional enka style, it features modern arrangements for a heartwarming finish.

Released in February 2025, it captivated audiences at the KOBE Ryūkōka Live in Kobe with a fervent performance reminiscent of his days as a traveling street singer.

The coupling track includes “Jinsei Mayoizaka” (Life at the Crossroads).

Sincerely singing of life’s doubts and inner conflicts, this piece is recommended to enka fans as a song that gently soothes hearts weary from everyday life.

A man’s single-minded resolveYamazaki Teiji

Teiji Yamazaki / A Man’s Resolve

It’s a weighty song that sings of heartfelt conviction.

Performed by Teiji Yamazaki, it was released in January 2025.

His vocals, blending strength with melancholy, leave a strong impression.

The lyrics beautifully teach the importance of “sticking to your own path.” It’s perfect for those standing at a crossroads in life or wanting to reexamine how they live.

As an encouraging anthem that gives you courage, it’s sure to resonate with many hearts.

Snow SongKimura Tetsuji

Snow Song

This is a work by Tetsuji Kimura that poignantly sings of snow swirling through the air.

While regretting past mistakes, the protagonist discovers renewal and hope, rendered alongside a beautiful melody.

Released in February 2025, this song is Kimura’s third single.

Through depictions of nature—snow, the moon, and the wind—it symbolically expresses the purification and rebirth of the human heart.

For those feeling lost in life, it may serve as a guiding light.

true to myselfToukyou Rikisha

Tokyo Rickshaw “Like Myself…” Music Video

An ambitious work with lyrics penned by enka legend Joji Yamamoto is powerfully performed by the vocal group Tokyo Rikisha! Released in February 2025, the single comes in three formats: Type-A, Type-B, and a limited-production edition.

The lyrics, which radiate a steadfast determination to face forward toward one’s dreams, blend perfectly with the bold sound.

The soulful voices of the rickshaw pullers based in Asakusa will resonate in your heart, reminding you of the importance of living true to yourself.

A Melancholy Road on the Shimokita PeninsulaMatsubara Nobue

Nobue Matsubara “Shimokita Peninsula Melancholy Road” MV [Official]

This is a moving piece that blends the scenery of the northern country with the ache of unrequited love.

Released in January 2025 as Nobue Matsubara’s 45th anniversary debut single, the song features lyrics by Shinichi Ishihara and composition by Tetsuya Gen.

Set on the Shimokita Peninsula, it portrays the inner conflict of a woman who cannot bring herself to say goodbye and sever her love.

The rich, resonant vocals further enhance the song’s emotional depth.

Its charm also lies in the inclusion of regional icons like the Kandachime horses and the Shiriya-zaki Lighthouse.

It’s a must-listen for anyone feeling the pangs of love.