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 portraying men’s way of life and spirit (91–100)
Okuhida BojoRyū Tetsuya
This is Tetsuya Ryu’s debut single, released in 1980.
With this song, he even appeared on NHK’s Kōhaku Uta Gassen in 1981.
Despite losing his eyesight at 25, he persevered, debuting as an enka street performer in his hometown of Takayama, Gifu, with an accordion in his arms.
He sings the lyrics, set in his home region of Okuhida, with deep emotion.
This is enka at its finest—a masterpiece packed with its unique charm.
The style features an abundance of kobushi, the characteristic melodic ornaments of enka.
To master it, listen to the recording and try imitating the kobushi.
As you repeat, you’ll start to grasp their nuances.
Be sure to mimic the note sustains and accents closely.
Not only will this help you score higher, it will undoubtedly make singing enka even more enjoyable.
Scorpio womanMikawa Ken’ichi
A song that portrays the feelings of a passionate, single-minded woman was released in December 1972 and became a hit, achieving strong results on the Oricon charts.
With its distinctive lyrics and melody, along with an unmistakable vocal style, it captured the hearts of many and was performed seven times on NHK’s Kōhaku Uta Gassen.
The lyrics, which project the traits of Scorpio onto a female figure, express the complex emotions of romance.
Widely known as one of Kenichi Mikawa’s signature songs, it’s also popular as material for impressionists.
When tackling it at karaoke, it’s important to keep Mikawa’s unique timbre and expressive delivery in mind while immersing yourself in the song’s world.
Even beginners to enka will find it enjoyable to sing thanks to its familiar melody and memorable lyrics.
Tears and a solitary drinkAoyama Shin
Portraying in poignant detail the feelings of someone who has lost a lover, this work is likely to become one of Arata Aoyama’s signature songs.
Its profound sadness and sense of loneliness are powerfully conveyed, with lyrics that tighten the listener’s chest and a wistful melody that resonates deeply.
Aoyama’s clear, translucent voice beautifully enhances this heartrending worldview, and the emotionally rich singing in the chorus is especially striking.
Although it’s a highly challenging piece that demands enka-specific vocal techniques—such as vibrato and nuanced dynamics—it also allows the singer to fully express their emotions.
When attempting it at karaoke, it’s key to relax and sing while visualizing the scenes depicted in the lyrics.
Brother ShipsToba Ichirō
This is a song filled with the passionate spirit of men of the sea.
Released in August 1982 as Ichirō Toba’s debut single, it sold about 290,000 copies on that year’s Oricon chart.
It powerfully sings of the bond between fisherman brothers and familial love.
A blossom of life blooming in the troughs of the waves, a boat inherited from their father.
The sight of men facing the harsh sea is deeply moving.
The song was performed seven times on NHK’s Kōhaku Uta Gassen and resonated with many people.
Perfect for those who want to feel a man’s way of life and resolve—a track that gives you the courage to face hardships.
konnyaku bastardKurokawa Shinichiro
It’s been crafted into a relatable, friendly song that feels as if it’s singing about you.
The lyrics, which liken the characteristics of konnyaku to the singer themself, are full of humor and depth.
Shinichiro Kurokawa’s clear, soaring high notes match the bright, lighthearted melody perfectly.
Released in July 2024, this work also includes the coupling track “To Mother,” a song of gratitude to his mom.
It’s the perfect tune for livening up a karaoke session or cheering up a downhearted friend—sure to lift your spirits!
king (shogi piece)Murata Hideo
This song expresses a life wagered on shogi pieces and a way of living fought with everything you’ve got.
Hideo Murata’s powerful vocals shake the soul.
Released in November 1961, it became a million-seller.
It was also used as a movie theme song and has been covered by many artists.
Just like a shogi match, listening to this song at crucial moments in life can give you courage.
You can feel the passionate emotions that overlap with Murata’s own life.
When you want to renew your determination to face hardships, give it a listen.
It’s a masterpiece filled with the aesthetics of manliness that is sure to set your heart ablaze.
Boat SongYashiro Aki
The song Funauta captivates with its whispery, husky voice.
It was even featured in a 2006 Suntory BOSS commercial, so many of you might remember it.
Written and composed by the golden duo Yu Aku and Keisuke Hama, it was Aki Yashiro’s first “man’s song.” She apparently felt it would be a hit from the moment she heard the demo for the first time—and no wonder: the opening lyrics and melody draw you into the song’s world instantly.
A woman belting out a man’s song is just plain cool—nothing more needs to be said.
