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.
- Cool masterpieces of enka, the heart of Japan
- Enka Path: A collection of enka songs that liken life to a road
- Enka songs that are easy for men to sing: a roundup of tracks to try at karaoke
- [Men] Enka Songs That Can Score High in Karaoke
- [For Men] Masterpiece Enka Songs with High Difficulty
- [Enka] A feature on male singers in their 60s: enka vocalists whose rugged charm shines
- A collection of classic enka masterpieces about love: songs that depict the nuances of mature romance.
- Legendary enka songs that fire up the crowd. A song catalog of enka picks you won’t go wrong with at karaoke.
- [For Beginners] Recommended Enka Masterpieces for Karaoke — Male Singers Edition
- [2026] Life's Cheering Songs: A Collection of Recommended Enka to Lift Your Spirits
- [Enka] A special feature on male singers in their 30s: authentic kayōkyoku brimming with sensual allure
- [2026] Representative Famous Enka Songs: A Compilation of Classic Favorites [Beginner-Friendly]
- Roundup of male enka singers in their 50s: masters who are active at the heart of the enka world
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.
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.
draft (cold air seeping through gaps)Sugi Ryōtarō
A fine song that quietly observes the way a man lives.
Released in October 1976, it became a massive hit, selling over a million copies.
The nuanced subtleties of life are woven into the deep, rugged vocals of Ryotaro Sugi, who is also active as an actor.
It was used as the ending theme for Toyama no Kin-san and resonated with many people.
The song carefully depicts the process of overcoming setbacks and hardships to find happiness, giving courage to those who listen.
When you stand at a crossroads in life or experience a farewell with someone important, listening to it will surely warm your heart.
Please give it a listen.
rampaging shipMuraki Dan
A song that sings of the souls of men who face the raging waves.
Dan Muraki’s powerful vocals strike a chord.
The lyrics, depicting the lives of the sea and of men, brim with a sense of realism—like fierce waves baring their fangs right before your eyes.
Released in January 2024, this piece is a tour de force infused with the courage and adventure of men who live by the sea, as well as deep love for their families.
The cover of Yubue included as the coupling track is also a highlight.
Recommended not only for enka fans but for anyone who needs the courage to face life.
It’s a song that warms the heart and inspires a forward-looking attitude toward life.