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 classics depicting the way men live and their fighting spirit (61–70)
Sake, Tears, Men, and WomenKawashima Eigo
This is a socially conscious masterpiece that portrays the subtle miscommunications between men and women and the nuances of emotional expression with deep insight.
It warmly observes how men open up through drinking and women through tears, each revealing their inner feelings.
Born from impressions Eigo Kawashima had at age 18 during a family memorial gathering, the song was included on the November 1975 album “Jinrui” (Humanity) and released as a single in June 1976.
Also known as the jingle for the sake brand Kizakura, it became a major hit, reaching No.
9 on the Oricon weekly chart.
It is a gem I recommend to anyone who wants to face their heart honestly when confronted with life’s sorrow and poignancy.
Headwind InnocenceTakeshima Hiroshi
Released in 2021 and peaking at No.
5 on the Oricon chart, the hit song “Mukaikaze Junjō” is a track that showcases Hiroshi Takeshima’s refined vocals and is also known as the theme song for the NHK BS drama “Daifugō Dōshin 2.” With lyrics by Goro Matsui and composition by Takashi Toshimi—both giants in the field—it’s a killer tune that evokes the golden era of Showa-era pop.
Many people will likely want to try it at karaoke.
When singing it at karaoke, be sure to pronounce each word clearly, and consciously create contrast between the crisp, rhythmic parts and the expansive, sustained phrases.
While recreating the choreography that drew attention in the music video, don’t be shy—go all in and sing with bold, stylish flair, even to the point of overdoing it.
A Man’s Pure Hearttatsumi yūto
Released in 2019, “Otoko no Junjo” was the second single by Yuto Tatsumi, who at the time was active as an enka singer while still a university student.
It topped the enka charts and reached No.
10 on the Oricon overall chart, helping cement the image of a new star for the Reiwa era in the enka world.
It’s classic enka that powerfully sings of supporting the somewhat awkward way a man lives, but its light, refreshing melody—reflecting Tatsumi’s personality—is easy to remember.
The vocal range isn’t very wide either, making it very easy to sing for an enka song.
I’d love for beginners to give it a try!
A Man’s WayMiyama Hiroshi
This song by Hiroshi Miyama, a leading figure in enka, is a moving masterpiece that powerfully sings of a man’s way of life and outlook on life.
Since it mainly sits in the low to mid vocal range, it’s structured to be easy to sing even for those who struggle with high notes.
Released in February 2017, it also became a popular hit, reaching No.
1 on the Oricon Weekly Enka/Kayō Single Chart.
The lyrics capture a calm, composed male figure, his views on love, and his feelings for his hometown—making it a perfect track for those moments when you want to quietly reflect on life, like savoring a drink at a bar and looking back on your journey.
ancient castleMitsubishi Michiya
When it comes to timeless, melancholy Japanese classics, this song is the first that comes to mind.
Its lyrical poetry and rich melody blend beautifully, stirring the listener’s heart.
Through the image of a decayed castle, it poignantly sings of lost glory and nostalgia for bygone days—truly the essence of enka.
Since its 1959 release, it has remained beloved by many and is a karaoke staple.
Yet its difficulty is well known: Mihashi’s distinctive vocal timbre and expressive power, along with the wide-ranging melody, put any singer to the test.
Even so, it’s a song I especially hope those with a wealth of life experience will try.