A collection of enka songs with “Blues” in the title: masterpieces that sing of sorrow
When you look through enka song titles, many of you may have noticed there are a lot of tracks called “___ Blues.”
Blues is a music genre born in America, where singers pour a range of emotions into songs built on a particular rhythm and chord progression.
In Japan’s enka scene, many songs began to be composed with the blues in mind, and a particularly large number of melancholy tunes were released.
In this article, we’ll introduce classic enka songs whose titles include the word “Blues.”
Listen to them while picturing the scenes and emotions woven into each track.
A collection of enka songs with “Blues” in the title: Classic masterpieces of sorrow (1–10)
Witch’s BluesKasumi-KASMI-
“Witch’s Blues” is KASMI’s second single.
It’s a work wrapped in the bewitching atmosphere of the late night.
The arrangement is by Hideya Sawamura.
True to KASMI’s self-styled persona as a “witch who sings and dances,” it’s crafted as a kayōkyoku piece that boldly incorporates elements of blues.
Her sultry vocals pair beautifully with the smooth, restrained melody.
It’s an emotion-rich enka-kayō song that makes you want to listen slowly in a nighttime bar.
Blues of the DawnItsuki Hiroshi
This is about television, but now that viewers’ channel options are no longer limited to terrestrial broadcasting, the number of enka programs is steadily increasing.
I wonder if Japan’s aging population has something to do with it.
“Yoake no Blues” leans more toward mood-kayo-style enka.
Its catchy melody follows a different line from shamisen and shakuhachi-based tunes, so even young listeners can enjoy it without any sense of mismatch.
The lyrics, depicting the push-and-pull between a man and a woman set against the nightlife of the city, spin a tale of romance that’s a true stage for adults.
Hiroshi Itsuki’s relaxed vocal delivery feels wonderfully light.
Shinjuku BluesOugi Hiroko
This is a blues number by Hiroko Ogi, whose husky yet tender delivery and soaring vocals leave a distinctly original impression.
The song is renowned as a classic and, with its moody kayōkyoku style, is well-suited for karaoke.
Scorpio womanMikawa Ken’ichi
Speaking of blues, Kenichi Mikawa’s “Sasori-za no Onna” (Scorpio Woman) is an essential track.
The song regained the spotlight thanks to Korokke’s impression, and it’s become a karaoke staple.
The lyrics are actually quite dark, but Mikawa’s distinctive persona keeps it from feeling too heavy and makes it enjoyable.
Mikawa has enjoyed great popularity with local-themed songs like “Yanagase Blues” and “Niigata Blues,” and this song can certainly be counted among his signature works as well.
When you sing it at karaoke, aim for impact and keep Mikawa’s character in mind as you perform.
Ichibangai BluesHama Hiroya
With a voice that blends urban allure and translucence, Hiroya Hama has long brought color to the world of mood kayō (Japanese popular ballads).
Released in August 2025, this song is set in the nighttime city and portrays a secretive love story between a man and a woman.
The subtle signals exchanged in neon-lit entertainment districts, along with the bittersweet frustration and exhilaration of a relationship that must remain hidden, are beautifully conveyed through Hama’s signature, soaring high notes.
Listening to this piece, you’ll likely feel a slightly illicit, intoxicating sweetness—as if you’re peeking into a scene from a drama.
Not even worth confessingKitahara Mirei
One blues number that really fires up the karaoke crowd is Mirei Kitahara’s “Zange no Neuchi mo Nai” (“No Value in Confession”).
Released in 1970 as her debut single, the song drew attention to her talent, honed through performing in nightclubs.
Her polished vocals caught the eye of lyricist Yū Aku and singer Hiroshi Mizuhara, leading to her professional debut.
The song’s appeal lies in its unique beauty steeped in anguish and longing.
Packed with the essence of the blues, it remains a favorite for karaoke to this day.
When a singer pours their own emotions into it, the song’s depth truly stands out.
“Zange no Neuchi mo Nai” can rightly be called an immortal classic.
Port Town BluesMori Shinichi
This song, which portrays a poignant love story set in Japan’s port towns, was the third single of Shinichi Mori’s career, released in 1969 (Showa 44).
With lyrics by Takeshi Fukatsu and music by Kosho Inomata, it weaves the names of port towns from around the country into a richly emotional tale of heartbreak and lingering affection for a lost lover.
Coupled with Mori’s powerful, husky voice, it has long been cherished as a melancholic masterpiece that resonates deeply with listeners.
At the 62nd NHK Kohaku Uta Gassen in 2011 (Heisei 23), the song was performed for the first time in 42 years as part of a program supporting recovery from the Great East Japan Earthquake, drawing renewed attention to its enduring appeal.
It’s a track you’ll want to share with someone special as you take in the scenery and sentiments of Japan’s port towns.