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

Hana nu Chura ShimaTokeiji Tsutomu

Yusuke Hontake LIVE in Osaka: Hana nu Chura Shima

A song that warmly celebrates Okinawa’s beautiful nature and culture, resonating with the comforting tones of the sanshin and an upbeat rhythm.

It is a signature work by Tsutomu Tokeshi that superbly fuses traditional Okinawan music with pop, and it is included on the album “Okinawa no Kaze,” released in June 2005.

The track was also chosen as the official campaign song of the Okinawa Convention & Visitors Bureau and has been used in local TV commercials and radio programs, making it highly well-known in Okinawa.

Its gentle mood and powerful beat further illuminate the image of children dancing together in unison.

Eisa: Wind of Ryukyu

Eisa: Wind of Ryukyu

This work, created so that children can enjoyably experience Eisa—Okinawa’s traditional performing art—is included on the album “2011 Victor Sports Day 4,” released by Victor Entertainment in 2011.

Its appeal lies in dynamic choreography where children dance with paranku hand drums to powerful taiko beats and exciting calls.

As a staple for group performances at school sports days, why not use this song to present an energetic Eisa performance?

Festival of the Seventh Month

Eisa, Eisa, Hiyaruga Eisa [July Festival] ~ End Roll (Ryukyu Dance Troupe Shoryu Festival Taiko PV)

An energetic track by Ryukyu Mendan Shoryu Matsuri Daiko that preserves Okinawa’s traditional melodies and rhythms while adding a modern arrangement.

The powerful beat of the taiko drums blends beautifully with the plaintive tones of the sanshin, stirring the listener’s heart.

The promotional video, filmed across Okinawa’s main island in October 2013, captures dynamic performances set against Naha City, the area around Shurijo Castle, and stunning coastlines—showcasing Okinawa’s captivating scenery.

It’s an ideal piece for group routines at school sports festivals and dance performances incorporating Eisa.

The commanding drum rhythms and distinctive melodic lines will unite the entire venue and captivate the audience.

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.

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.

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.

Mami and Toma styleYaeyama min’yō

“Kohama-bushi / Mami Toma-bushi” by Isamu Asato <Okinawa Izakaya Kodama> (2018)

With the sanshin’s richly expressive melody and graceful rhythms, Yaeyama folk songs soothe the soul.

Woven from the island’s unhurried flow of time, its abundant nature, and the lives of its people, these beautiful melodies evoke a quiet sense of wonder.

Interlacing emotive sounds with dynamic drum rhythms, this piece is sure to add extra brilliance to the children’s Eisa performance at a school sports day.

Through performing Eisa together as one, everyone can truly experience the splendor of Okinawa’s traditional culture.