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 the way of life and spirit of men (11–20)
I long for Southern HokkaidoKoyama Yudai
A debut song by Yudai Koyama that sings of Hokkaido’s majestic nature and his love for family.
The lyrics vividly depict the scenery of Southern Hokkaido, and his powerful, folk-influenced vocals leave a strong impression.
Released in April 2024, this work fully expresses his love for his hometown and resonates deeply with listeners.
While honoring the tradition of enka, his performance at the young age of 21 feels fresh.
With its wide vocal range and nuanced kobushi ornamentation, the song is technically demanding, yet Koyama’s “magic voice” captures it beautifully.
Highly recommended for those who have left their hometowns or anyone who wants to savor the depth of enka.
homesicknessMori Shinichi
Known as a classic of Showa-era enka, this song showcases Shinichi Mori’s rich, resonant voice and outstanding expressive power.
It poignantly portrays a woman’s aching feelings for a lover from whom she has been separated, sung with deep emotion.
Since its release in December 1970, it has captured countless hearts and never let go.
As Mori’s 18th single, it became one of his signature tracks, always included on his best-of albums.
Because it demands enka’s distinctive phrasing and finely nuanced emotion, it’s quite difficult to sing.
Still, it’s a song I especially hope will be heard by those living away from their hometowns or thinking of someone far away.
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!
youSen Masao
Known as a signature song from the mid-career period, “Anta.” Unusually for a song by Masao Sen, it is a piece sung from a female perspective, expressing the feelings of a woman who still longs for the man she parted ways with.
Throughout, the vocals remain quietly reflective, and surprisingly, there are few instances of kobushi (ornamental turns), and the ones that do appear are not difficult.
This makes it very easy for beginners to sing.
The vocal range is also quite narrow, so if you adjust to a suitable key, anyone—regardless of gender—should be able to sing it smoothly.
Our town was green indeed.Sen Masao
Masao Sen’s classic “Waga Machi wa Midori Nariki” is notable for its gentle melody.
While it is nominally classified as enka, the vocal line strongly reflects the essence of Showa-era kayōkyoku, and the characteristic enka vocal melisma (kobushi) is scarcely present.
The few instances of kobushi are mostly limited to a single scale step up or down, so even those not adept at enka-style phrasing should be able to sing it without difficulty.
If you enjoy songs with a nostalgic, old-fashioned mood, consider adding this one to your repertoire.