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)
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.
A Man’s HarborToba Ichirō
With a fisherman father and an ama diver mother, Ichiro Toba is truly an enka singer worthy of being called a “man of the sea.” Released in 1986, this song became a popular hit and was even performed on NHK’s Kōhaku Uta Gassen.
Characterized by lyrics themed around the sea and fishermen’s lives and a powerful melody, it showcases Toba’s vocal prowess to the fullest.
The overall pitch is on the lower side, but it’s challenging to deliver the lyrics clearly while employing vibrato.
It takes considerable technique to sing the low-register melody with stability.
If you’re not confident with vibrato, you might focus on delivering the lyrics clearly with crisp articulation.
It’s a recommended track for those who want to let their thoughts drift to the world of the sea and its fishermen.
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.
Let’s call it good with this.Mikawa Ken’ichi
It’s a song filled with insights into life, carried by a warm and resonant vocal.
Released in September 2024 to celebrate Kenichi Mikawa’s 60th anniversary since debut, it was created through a star-studded collaboration with Takahiro Matsumoto of B’z and TAKURO of GLAY.
Set to a medium tempo, the lyrics sing of facing forward and living on even in the face of hardship.
Within its calm atmosphere, the words convey a seasoned perspective on life that truly touches the heart.
When you’re troubled or feeling worn out, listening to it will surely give you courage.