Men’s enka: a collection of classic songs portraying the way men live and their fighting spirit
There are many enka songs that depict the way men live and their stylish, gallant spirit.
There are also songs that sing about bonds and love from a male perspective.
In this article, we’ll introduce a wide selection of songs that convey men’s emotions.
We’ve gathered plenty of chic, cool tracks and deeply moving songs full of compassion.
We’re sure you’ll find songs that resonate with you regardless of gender, so please listen while following along with the lyrics.
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Men’s Enka: A collection of classic songs depicting men’s way of life and spirit (81–90)
A solitary journey to MichinokuYamamoto Jōji
This is a classic by an enka singer from Yamaguchi Prefecture that portrays the feelings of a man leaving his hometown to set out on a journey.
Interweaving place names from the Tohoku region—such as Matsushima and Shirakawa—it poignantly sings of lingering feelings for a woman he parted from and the loneliness of the road.
Released in 1980, it initially struggled but became a breakout hit after a TV appearance the following year.
It garnered numerous honors, including the singer’s first appearance at the 32nd NHK Kohaku Uta Gassen and the Long-Seller Award at the 23rd Japan Record Awards.
It’s a great pick for newcomers to enka, and you can fully enjoy it by focusing on the chorus.
If you want to try enka at karaoke, this is an excellent song to start with.
A Lone Journey to MichinokuYamamoto Jōji
This is one of Joji Yamamoto’s signature songs.
It was introduced to him by his mentor, Saburo Kitajima.
After hearing it, Yamamoto begged to sing it, which led to a massive hit.
It has since become a classic that continues to be performed.
The low notes in the B section may be difficult to produce even for men.
Practice so that your chest voice resonates solidly within your body.
Doing so will improve not only your low notes but your high notes as well.
The famous, relentless phrase at the ending may feel challenging precisely because the pitch doesn’t change much.
Engage your core and sing with firm abdominal support.
Lost in the cityIwaide Kazuya
Singing straightforward, classic enka at karaoke might still be a bit tough… For those of you who feel that way, I recommend this famous song packed with kayō-pop flavor! Kazuya Iwade, an enka singer from Osaka known for his handsome looks and solid vocal skills, released “Tokyo Stray” in 2022.
Its easy-to-remember, instantly catchy chorus makes it a must-add to your karaoke repertoire.
The urbane, refined melody calls for holding back on the typical enka-style vocal ornaments, and in the especially exciting chorus, aim for a natural vibrato and a smooth, expansive delivery.
Solo Journey with the Tsugaru ShamisenSaisei
Set against the harsh climate of Tsugaru, this song portrays the lonely feelings of a protagonist who leaves their hometown and continues their journey.
The powerful timbre of the Tsugaru shamisen blends beautifully with Ayasei’s emotionally rich vocals, resonating deeply with listeners.
Released in May 2020, the track drew attention as Ayasei’s second single.
The unique tone of the Tsugaru shamisen and Ayasei’s vocal prowess create a soundscape that will feel fresh not only to enka enthusiasts but also to listeners across generations.
While the song is relatively challenging to sing, imagining the landscapes of Tsugaru while performing will surely make it a piece that touches the heart.
Kiyoshi’s Soran BushiHikawa Kiyoshi
This modern arrangement of the traditional Hokkaido folk song “Soran Bushi,” combined with Kiyoshi Hikawa’s powerful vocals, is a track that gives listeners courage and energy.
Released in May 2007, it achieved major success on the Oricon Singles Chart and won the Gold Award at the 49th Japan Record Awards.
It was also performed at the 58th NHK Kohaku Uta Gassen, drawing widespread attention.
Characterized by an up-tempo, energetic rhythm, it is a challenging piece that demands a wide vocal range from high to low.
The song strikes a perfect balance between innovative elements that transcend the enka genre and traditional influences.
EbisuSanada Naoki
Produced by Ikuzo Yoshi, this song tells a love story set in the Ebisu district.
Naoki Sanada, known for his captivating husky voice, delivers an emotionally rich performance.
The lyrics skillfully depict the progression of romance while weaving in the transition from autumn to winter and then to spring, leaving a strong impression.
Released in January 2020, it reached No.
1 on the Oricon Weekly Singles Enka/Kayō ranking.
With its urban atmosphere and warm lyrics, it’s an easy song to enjoy at karaoke.
Even if you’re not confident in your singing ability, belting out the chorus with power should be more than enough to get the crowd going.
Men’s enka: A collection of classic songs portraying men’s way of life and spirit (91–100)
Traveler of the NorthIshihara Yūjirō
A gem of a song by Yujiro Ishihara that tenderly portrays a man’s aching heart as he searches for a lost love against the backdrop of the northern lands.
Blended with the harsh natural environment, his melancholic vocals resonate deeply.
Released in August 1987, the piece was also used as an insert song for the TV Asahi drama “Seibu Keisatsu.” A mood-kayo number that makes the most of his deep voice, it vividly conveys northern landscapes and the sentiment of travel.
With a narrow melodic range and a relaxed tempo, it’s a song that’s easy to try at karaoke.
Recommended for those who want to savor Ishihara’s unique aura.