[Eisa] A roundup of classic and popular songs—perfect for sports day!

Voice of the Seaurashima tarō (kiritani kenta)

Voice of the Sea, Eisa, Ryukyu Dance Troupe, Shoryu Festival Drums

A warm, folk-style ballad where the sound of the traditional Okinawan instrument sanshin blends with gentle vocals.

While attuning to the many sounds of nature, it tenderly sings of feelings for a loved one.

Composed by BEGIN’s Masaru Shimabukuro with lyrics by au commercial planner Makoto Shinohara, it became a gem of a song that highlights Kenta Kiritani’s strengths.

Released in July 2015 as the theme for au’s “Santaro Series” commercials, it is included on the album “Kanon.” The song won the Excellence Award at the 2016 Japan Record Awards.

Incorporating it into an Eisa performance at a school sports day is sure to create a heartwarming, peaceful atmosphere.

Sanshin FlowerBEGIN

BEGIN / Flowers of the Sanshin

BEGIN’s songs, which elevate Okinawa’s traditions and culture into contemporary pop, are perfect for adding color to an Eisa performance at a school sports day.

Released in October 2006, this piece vividly portrays the beautiful scenery of Okinawa and the bonds among its people.

The nostalgic melodies carried by the sanshin and the warm vocals of Ei Sho Higa resonate deeply.

Also featured as an insert song in the film “Nada Sōsō,” it gently embraces those who carry their hometown in their hearts.

When this song plays at a sports day, both children and parents will be able to dance in unison, experiencing the charm of Okinawa together.

Festival of ProsperityYaeyama min’yō

Prosperity Festival | Yaeyama folk song praising the village’s flourishing and nature [Okinawan song]

A masterpiece of Yaeyama folk music that celebrates rich nature and everyday life is perfect for Eisa dance and school sports day performances! Accompanied by the resonant tones of the sanshin, this piece vividly portrays island scenes with emotion.

Its relaxed rhythm and lush melodies are soothing, while blending beautifully with the energetic dynamism of Eisa.

It’s recommended for those who want to engage with Okinawa’s traditional culture while captivating the audience with a high-energy performance.

Paired with children’s lively expressions, it’s sure to liven up any sports day.

Flower CityIkuma Akira

2024 Sports Day 3rd and 4th Grade Performance – Eisa “Suganchu nu Mai” ~With the Wind~

A powerful work that weaves a moving sound by fusing Okinawan traditional music with rock and pop.

The soulful vocals praising the preciousness of the Earth and life, the strong rhythms of the drums, and the beautiful melodies of the sanshin are in perfect harmony.

Singing of the importance of local culture and bonds, this piece features approachable arrangements of Okinawan performing arts and fully conveys the appeal of new music born from the interplay of tradition and innovation.

It’s perfect for performing Eisa at a school sports festival, and is a must-listen for anyone interested in traditional performing arts or dance.

A place to return toHY

A Place to Return: SHINKA Creative Eisa at Senagajima Umikaji Terrace, 2023-05-05

HY’s song, filled with deep love and warmth for their Okinawan homeland, resonates with the heart.

Featured on the album “GLOCAL,” this track blends references to local landmarks and the sound of traditional Eisa drums, serving as an encouraging anthem for those living away from home.

Its lyrics, which gently speak to the feelings everyone raised in Okinawa has for their “mother island” and the importance of returning there, sink deeply into the listener’s heart.

Used as the finale of a school sports day or as accompaniment for an Eisa performance, this piece will leave a warm afterglow in the hearts of all participants.

Tears Flowing EndlesslyNatsukawa Rimi

I tried dancing to ‘Nada Sou Sou’ (Rimi Natsukawa)❣️ #CreativeEisa #NadaSousou

A signature song of Rimi Natsukawa whose title, in the Okinawan dialect, means “tears falling in drops.” Ryoko Moriyama wrote the lyrics in memory of her late brother, and BEGIN composed the music.

Wrapped in gentle words and melody, the song conveys gratitude and prayers to cherished people preserved in beloved old albums.

Recorded in March 2001, it remained on the Oricon Weekly Singles Chart for a total of 157 weeks and won the Gold Prize at the 44th Japan Record Awards in 2002.

In 2006, it was chosen as the theme song for a film starring Satoshi Tsumabuki and Masami Nagasawa, commemorating TBS Television’s 50th anniversary.

It can also be used for Eisa performances at school sports festivals to share Okinawa’s culture and the feelings of its people.

Beyond the seaPāshakurabu

Pasha Club: Beyond the Sea

Parsha Club’s song is a heartwarming piece packed with the charms of Okinawa.

The lyrics gently depict Okinawa’s nature and the lives of its people, and the beautiful melody woven by the sanshin leaves a strong impression.

Released in July 2013, the song captured the hearts of many, including those living in Okinawa.

It is included on the album “nada nada” and showcases Parsha Club’s musicality to the fullest.

It’s also perfect as background music for performing Eisa at school sports festivals.

It’s a song that lets everyone dance energetically while feeling the Okinawan breeze.