Great enka masterpieces and hit songs of the 1980s
The appeal of enka, a genre cherished as Japanese music for many years, has not faded.
Even today it’s featured on TV and in commercials, and many enka singers appear on the annual New Year’s Eve music show, the Kōhaku Uta Gassen.
In this article, we’ll showcase a selection of hit enka songs released in the 1980s—works that embody the very heart of Japan.
For those who remember the era, many of these tracks will feel nostalgic.
At the same time, we’ve chosen numerous timeless classics that people born after the ’80s are likely to know as well.
Take this opportunity to sit back and savor the enka masterpieces of the 1980s.
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- [1980s] A roundup of debut songs by enka singers
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- A roundup of hit enka songs from the Heisei era
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Great Enka Masterpieces and Hits of the 1980s (1–10)
Brother ShipsToba Ichirō
The debut single by Ichiro Toba, released in 1982, deeply moved the hearts of enka fans.
Portraying the strong bonds and hardships of men of the sea, the song—combined with his powerful vocals—resonates profoundly with listeners.
It sold around 290,000 copies on the Oricon chart, becoming a major hit that came close to million-seller status.
The following year, he won the Newcomer Award at the All Japan Cable Broadcasting Awards.
He also made his first appearance at the NHK Kohaku Uta Gassen at the end of 1985, and the song was so beloved that he went on to perform it there seven more times.
It’s a track that fishermen, of course, and everyone dedicated to their work should hear.
With thoughts of family in your heart, it’s sure to give you the energy you need for tomorrow!
Drunk and reelingKatsura Ginshuku
“Yoideredete” (Drunken), sung by the Korean-born singer Eunice Katsura (Kei Yasushi), portrays someone trying to forget painful events with the help of alcohol.
Released in 1989, it became a major hit, winning numerous awards such as the Gold Prize at the 31st Japan Record Awards and the Wired Music Award at the 22nd Japan Cable Radio Awards.
No matter how hard things get, we put on a brave face in daily life—but when we’re alone, a sadness can wash over us that makes us feel like giving up on life altogether.
Many people have probably felt that way at some point.
Katsura’s husky voice further accentuates the painful emotions in the lyrics.
festivalKitajima Saburō
Released in November 1984, this song has become one of Saburo Kitajima’s signature numbers.
Its lyrics vividly capture the dynamism of Japanese festivals, and it’s often performed on stage with a “Nebuta” float.
The piece was performed six times on NHK’s Kouhaku Uta Gassen, remarkably serving as the grand finale on five of those occasions.
The lyrics express gratitude to the mountain and sea deities, reflecting the Japanese passion for festivals, their spirit, and appreciation for nature.
It’s a highly recommended track when you want to soak in a festive atmosphere or experience traditional Japanese culture.
Great enka masterpieces and hit songs of the 80s (11–20)
A solitary journey to MichinokuYamamoto Jōji
This is Joji Yamamoto’s signature song, released in 1980.
It didn’t sell much at the time of release, but it became a hit the following year, in 1981, and he even appeared on that year’s Kōhaku Uta Gassen.
Joji’s passionate character matches the image of the song wonderfully.
Okuhida BojoRyū Tetsuya
Known as a classic that represents Japan’s enka genre, this work is Tetsuya Ryu’s signature song and was released as his debut single in June 1980.
Set in the hot spring towns of Okuhida, its lyrically rich verses interweave a traveler’s emotions with the beauty of nature.
Combined with Ryu’s clear, soaring vocals, the song leaves a deep impression on listeners.
After its release, it gradually gained popularity, breaking into the top ten of the Oricon charts.
It also won the 14th Japan Cable Radio Awards and secured an appearance at the 32nd NHK Kohaku Uta Gassen in 1981.
This piece is recommended not only for enka fans but also for anyone interested in experiencing traditional Japanese music.
North TavernHosokawa Takashi
Released in 1982, this song was created by the duo of lyricist Rei Nakanishi and composer Taiji Nakamura, and is counted among Takashi Hosokawa’s signature works.
The fact that it has been covered by numerous singers since its release shows just how beloved it is.
In the lyrics, after depicting a man and a woman meeting at a tavern in the northern country, the song goes on to portray the two seeking warmth together on a cold night.
The ending shows that the time is special not only for the woman who falls in love but also for the man, giving the piece a charm that reminds listeners of a warm encounter at an izakaya.
Two-person sakekawanaka miyuki
“Futari-zake” is Miyuki Kawanaka’s 1980 hit song that gained popularity through the radio show she hosted.
With lyrics by Takashi Taka and music by Tetsuya Gen, this collaborative work led her to perform the song three times on the NHK Kōhaku Uta Gassen.