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 roundup of classic songs portraying the way men live and their spirit (41–50)
Song of YouthSen Masao
Known as a masterpiece from his later years, “Song of Youth.” Released as the coupling track when the new version of the classic “Yaima” came out, it’s arranged to match the single’s overall mood, resulting in a very relaxed and warm tone.
It does feature kobushi ornamentation, but since it’s the type characteristic of Masao Sen—where he completely stops the voice briefly to shape the phrase—the difficulty is minimal.
It’s very easy to sing even for beginners to enka, so consider adding it to your repertoire.
Hokkaido Fisherman’s SongSora Daiki
With a powerful vocal and an emotionally rich melody, this song paints a vivid picture of the North Sea and the lives of its fishermen—their bravery as they battle rough waves and their unwavering camaraderie.
It’s an uplifting anthem that beautifully carries the spirit of the fisherfolk on its melody.
Released in May 2024, the track is included on the album “Hokkai Ryōshi-bushi / Family ~Thank You for Our Happiness~ / Kaachan.” It’s a work that distills the appeal of Daiki Sora, who sings the heart of Japan with a distinctive vocal style.
Overflowing with feelings of hometown affection, this is a song we’d recommend to anyone who admires the way of life of men of the sea.
Man BoatHosokawa Takashi
Set in Esashi, Hokkaido, this is a powerful enka song that portrays the heart of a fisherman braving rough seas while thinking of his mother.
Its haunting mood, woven by Tsugaru shamisen and trumpet, leaves a strong impression.
Released in July 2024 to commemorate Takashi Hosokawa’s 50th year in the performing arts, the piece depicts the harshness of life and the pursuit of dreams through the way of a fisherman, delivering a moving experience for listeners.
It’s a recommended track for those who want to savor traditional Japanese musicality or who seek the courage to face life head-on.
Chome-chomehoriemonn
This is a song by Takafumi Horie—aka Horiemon—whose unexpected debut as an enka singer made waves.
It was released in January 2025.
One of its charms is the catchy chorus that makes you want to sing along.
The lyrics pack a punch with a message like, “After working up a sweat, let’s cut loose and have a drink!” Coupled with its bright, festive sound, it’s the kind of track that leaves you feeling refreshed.
It’s a perfect number for resetting your mood!
Calm or stormIchijō Kanta
As the third installment in a series themed around the ocean, this work powerfully depicts fishermen who keep moving forward with unwavering resolve, whether the seas are calm or raging.
The lyrics by Takashi Banjo and the melody woven by Kenji Miyashita blend beautifully, while Kanta Ichijo’s clear, expansive vocals resonate deeply.
Brimming with speed and dynamism, this piece is sure to accompany those standing at a crossroads in life, offering courage to take a new step forward.
passionate flameYoshi Ikuzo
Ikuzo Yoshi is well regarded for his “onna-uta” (songs from a woman’s perspective), and among them, the track Joen is widely praised as a hidden masterpiece.
While its lyrics and melody exude a poignant melancholy, the vocal line is surprisingly straightforward, with gentle rises and falls in pitch.
There are few kobushi (ornamental turns), and the ones that do appear are often close to an extension of vibrato, so even those who feel uneasy about enka-style phrasing should be able to sing it without issue.
The song stays within a comfortable vocal range, making it easy to sing for both men and women.
Eating My Way Across JapanŌe Yutaka
Among Hiroshi Oe’s songs, “Nippon Dochu Itadakimasu” is especially full of warmth.
It brims with patriotism, and in the middle it even features a phrase reminiscent of the Shoten theme.
While the melody has a classic enka feel, the vocal line leans more toward kayōkyoku, and it doesn’t use the intricate, wide-ranging melismatic kobushi typical of enka.
The range isn’t particularly wide either, so as long as you adjust to a suitable key, anyone—regardless of gender—should be able to sing it comfortably.
Consider adding it to your repertoire.