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 men live and their spirit (21–30)
New Soma Love SongNumazaki Shūichi
This is a song that portrays the life of a fisherman and the love of family.
It’s a track by Shuichi Numazaki from Miyagi Prefecture, released in November 2024.
The lyrics express the heart of a man heading out to sea, conveying both pride in his work and deep affection for his wife.
The inclusion of the folk tune “Shin Sōmabushi” in the instrumental interlude is another highlight.
Numazaki’s powerful vocals evoke a fisherman’s resolve and passion.
The vivid imagery also beautifully brings the scenery of a port town to life.
A life of paying it forwardKanishima Akio
A gem of a ballad that carries a heart of gratitude on a beautiful melody.
Released in March 2025 as Akio Kanishima’s third single, this anthem to life is imbued with his feelings of cherishing the kindness he has received throughout his life so far.
Shinichi Ishihara’s warm lyrics and Chiaki Oka’s soul-stirring melody blend exquisitely.
Another highlight of this work is the depth of a voice steeped in life experience.
It has a unique persuasiveness that could only come from Kanishima—who, despite his business success, made his debut as an enka singer at the age of 76, an extraordinary career path.
Men’s enka: A collection of classic songs depicting the way men live and their spirit (31–40)
ComradeToba Ichirō
This is a work that passionately sings of bonds between men.
Released in February 2025, it features the distinctive vocal ornamentation unique to enka throughout.
Toba’s singing powerfully conveys the feelings of men who have weathered life’s rough seas, which is particularly striking.
You can sense both a humble acceptance of one’s place and a proud appreciation of ties with friends.
It’s a song you’ll want to listen to in moments when you want to savor life together with your comrades.
tear-drunkKenjiro
It’s a masterpiece that sings of aching emotions alongside a glass of sake.
Released in August 2024 to commemorate enka singer Kenjiro’s 15th debut anniversary, this medium-tempo ballad by Makoto Sugimoto highlights his rich vocal power that brings deep feelings to life.
Unable to forget the warmth of a past love, layered with longing for his hometown, a sense of loneliness seeps through.
It’s a tender enka classic that gently embraces those with wounded hearts.
Listen to it alone at night, and it will surely sink into your soul.
Wishing Starooi daisuke
A gem of a song that sings of longing for one’s hometown and a steadfast resolve to pursue dreams.
Released in July 2024, it’s a meaningful work commemorating the 25th anniversary of his debut and his 60th birthday.
Set in Tokyo at dusk, it vividly portrays the emotions of a protagonist striving far from home.
It’s recommended not only for enka fans but also for anyone who wants to encourage someone chasing their dreams.
A moving number that makes you want to sing it at karaoke.
Daisuke Ooi’s powerful vocals and the bittersweet melody are captivating.
He composed the piece himself, and you can feel his passion for music.
Life Dream Voyagetsuge yuuji
Yūji Tsuge’s seventh single features his compelling, gravelly vocals.
Released in October 2024 to mark his 20th debut anniversary, it powerfully portrays a man braving rough seas on the Sea of Japan.
You can feel his resolve to overcome hardship and keep chasing his dreams—it’s truly moving.
The chorus, with its extra punch, is especially cool.
This song will give courage to anyone feeling lost in life.
Please give it a listen! Packed with the classic appeal of traditional enka, it also seems poised to be a karaoke favorite—perfect for those moments when you want to fire yourself up while singing.
Male Dragonmiyama kenji
A robust song that likens the way a strong-willed man lives to a dragon has arrived from enka singer Kenji Miyama.
Conveying the resolve of a man determined to fulfill his destiny, this piece is his first new single in two years, released in August 2024.
Penned by lyricist Takashi Banjo and others, the emotionally rich composition embodies the very heart of Japan.
Miyama’s vocals fit it perfectly, resonating deeply as you listen.
It’s a great choice to belt out at karaoke, and one that can give you courage when you’re at a crossroads in life.
Highly recommended not only for men but for women as well.