RAG MusicJapanese Enka
Lovely enka

A collection of masterpieces! A roundup of enka love songs

Within enka, there are works spanning a variety of genres and vivid scene depictions, but many people probably feel that “enka means love songs.”

So this time, we’re introducing enka love songs!

We’ll cover a wide range—from songs that sing as if narrating a heartrending tragic romance, to ones where love wells up endlessly.

We’ve focused on hit songs, so it’s perfect for choosing tracks for karaoke, too.

Be sure to check it out to the end!

A Collection of Masterpieces! Enka Love Songs (71–80)

Love… (Passion) [Guitar ver.].Miyama Hiroshi

Hiroshi Miyama “Love… Passion (Guitar ver.)” MUSIC VIDEO
Love... (Passion) [Guitar ver.].Miyama Hiroshi

A song filled with deep passion and pure love has arrived from Hiroshi Miyama.

While inheriting the traditions of enka, it explores new forms of expression by blending in the tones of the guitar.

It richly conveys feelings for a beloved person, resulting in a work that resonates with the heart.

Released in May 2024, this song was created in response to strong requests from fans.

With composition and performance by Tetsuya Gen, it has been crafted into an even more profound piece.

It’s recommended for times when you want to reaffirm your feelings for someone special or when you want to listen to enka that truly touches the soul.

Nagasaki SentimentGodai Shou

Godaisho “Nagasaki Longing” MUSIC VIDEO
Nagasaki SentimentGodai Shou

This is a song by Sho Godai that captivates with an emotionally rich vocal performance.

It was released in May 2024 as his third single.

A heartrending love story set in Nagasaki grips the heart.

As you picture scenes like Hollander Slope and Maria’s Bells and empathize with the protagonist’s complex feelings, you may find your tears welling up.

The struggle between lingering attachment to the past and the urge to move forward is woven through Godai’s deep, lustrous voice.

The carefully crafted lyrics and melody exude the dignified presence of classic Showa-era kayōkyoku.

It’s a perfect track for moments when you want to touch the subtleties of life.

Love Letter BookmarkYamaguchi Noriko

’Koibumi Shiori’ Noriko Yamaguchi [OFFICIAL MUSIC VIDEO] #kayōkyoku #karaoke #new_song #female_vocal #Noriko_Yamaguchi
Love Letter BookmarkYamaguchi Noriko

This is a kayōkyoku song that weaves a bittersweet, nostalgic love.

It’s Noriko Yamaguchi’s new single, released in October 2024.

Using a letter as its motif, the lyrics skillfully capture the emotions of looking back on a lost love.

Fūko Sunagawa’s words and Wataru Arakawa’s composition are a perfect match, and Yamaguchi’s emotive vocals resonate deeply.

The nostalgic melody evokes a sense of longing that seems lost in the digital age.

It’s a gem you’ll want to listen to on a quiet night while thinking of someone dear.

The coupling track also offers a gentle, soothing tone that brings a sense of calm.

A collection of masterpieces! Enka love songs (81–90)

Koitou (Koitome) Coastyamaguchi hiromi

Hiromi Yamaguchi “Koitoi Coast” Music Video
Koitou (Koitome) Coastyamaguchi hiromi

You’ll surely be captivated by this song that portrays a poignant, heart-tugging love.

Released in July 2024 and set against the beautiful Koitoi Coast in Hokkaido, it sings of the pain of heartbreak and the hope for the future.

Hiromi Yamaguchi’s emotionally rich vocals resonate deeply with listeners.

The songwriting team, who also found success with “Mitsui no Banshō,” crafted this piece to bring out Yamaguchi’s full charm.

When you want to reflect on love or life, why not give this song a listen? It’s also easy to sing at karaoke, so be sure to give it a try.

Crimson PrideOkada Shinobu

Shinobu Okada “Crimson Pride” Music Video
Crimson PrideOkada Shinobu

A song that richly portrays the heart of a woman shattered by love.

The lyrics are striking, offering a glimpse of the “woman’s pride” that is a hallmark of enka.

Shinobu Okada’s deep, resonant voice conveys the complex emotions with remarkable realism.

Released in October 2024, it perfectly suits the autumn season—its poignant melancholy pairs beautifully with the crimson foliage.

It’s reportedly popular at karaoke as well.

Highly recommended not only for those troubled by love, but also for anyone who wants to empathize with the feelings of a mature woman.

Listened to in the calm of night, it seems to sink even deeper into the heart.

matchIwa Misaki

Misaki Iwasa “Match” Music Video [Special Appearance: Tamabaguro Kintaro] (Release date: August 28, 2024)
matchIwa Misaki

A powerful yet delicate song that sings of feelings ignited by a single match.

Released in August 2024, this is Misaki Iwasa’s 11th single since her transition from AKB48, steadily advancing her solo career.

It fully showcases her signature fusion of enka and pop, and in lyrics newly written by Yasushi Akimoto, the image of a small spark growing into a great flame is layered over the emotions of love.

Please give it a listen when you want to think of someone dear to you.

Love Song of the WaterfallKumi Iwamoto

Kumi Iwamoto “Love Song of the Waterfall” Music Video
Love Song of the Waterfall Iwamoto Kumi

A heart-stirring song woven from majestic nature and a bittersweet love.

Released in October 2024 to commemorate Komi Iwamoto’s 30th anniversary debut, it captivates with its powerful vocals and poetic lyrics.

The kobushi-inflected singing resonates pleasantly, and the inclusion of kouta elements lends both allure and depth.

The lyrics, expressing the sorrow of heartbreak and timeless emotions, are sure to strike a deep chord with listeners.

Against the backdrop of grand natural scenery, a poignant love story unfolds.

It’s the perfect piece for reminiscing about love or when you’re in the mood for an enka that truly sinks into the heart.