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.
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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.
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.
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.
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.
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.