[Traditional Performing Arts of Okinawa] A special feature on classic Eisa songs that make you want to dance

Hello UncleKina Shōkichi & Chanpurūzu

Shoukichi Kina & Champloose – Haisai Ojisan

Shoukichi Kina, known as a pioneer of the genre Uchinaa Pop—which gives Okinawan folk songs a pop arrangement—teamed up with Champuruz, a female group that also performs Uchinaa Pop, to create the very unique song “Haisai Ojisan.” The charm of this song lies in its lyrics, which comically portray the interactions between a certain boy and an older man who lives in the neighborhood.

With its up-tempo, rock ’n’ roll feel, it’s the kind of track that would set your body moving naturally if played for Eisa dancing!

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Pa-pa PineappleNagopainappurupāku

Papa Pineapple Dance Eisa Full Version (3 minutes)

This song from Nago Pineapple Park, featuring a bright melody packed with tropical cheer and a pop rhythm, is a refreshing track that seems to capture the sparkle of the Okinawan sun in music.

Released in 2013, it was recorded in four languages: Japanese, English, Chinese, and Korean.

In December 2024, it evolved even further with a new music video featuring FC Ryukyu’s dance team, “Gyakushū no BOMBERZ.” It’s a perfect fit for school sports festivals, Eisa performances, and group routines, with energetic choreography and an addictive chorus that make it ideal for everyone to have fun moving together.

Kankara Sanshin UmushirumunBEGIN

Kankara Sanshin Umushirumun

Just hearing the cheerful sound of the sanshin makes your heart start to dance.

In the lyrics, the three strings are likened to a family—the father, the mother, and the children—humorously singing about them blending together in harmony.

You can almost feel the excitement of waiting for Okinawa’s summer Eisa festivals and even hear the sounds of a laid-back life; simply listening brings a smile to your face.

This piece is included on the classic album “Begin no Shimauta – Omoto Takeo 2,” released in July 2002, alongside songs like “Shimanchu nu Takara.” It’s perfect not only for lifting the spirits of the whole family, but also as an enjoyable first step for anyone who wants to start playing the sanshin.

Ryukyuan HymnKaisegatou Yutaka

Ryukyuan Hymn

Hosei Toyo’s music, where traditional Okinawan sounds and modern elements blend beautifully, captivates with the powerful rhythms of the sanshin and drums and melodies that resonate in the heart.

This piece celebrates the charms of Okinawa and is a familiar tune among locals, used for the prefecture’s tourism promotions and as a theme song for local TV programs.

Incorporating it into a school sports day program will let the energetic drum beats and the dynamic tones of the sanshin further elevate the children’s performance.

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.

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.

My heart is pounding with excitement.Kochinda Takane

Sports Day Eisa: Choreography & Commentary ‘Chimudondon-don’

This work, whose title in the Okinawan dialect means “heart racing” or “feeling excited,” is one of Takane Kochihira’s signature songs in his musical career.

It’s a bright, rhythmic piece that brilliantly fuses elements of Okinawan folk music with pop, featuring an impressive, dynamic melody woven by the sound of the sanshin and a full band.

While honoring Okinawa’s traditional music, its contemporary arrangement brings out a fresh appeal, making it an ideal track for Eisa dances performed at school sports festivals.