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)
TakumiFukuda Kouhei
This is an enka song portraying a man who carves out his path through sweat and effort.
Set for release by Kohei Fukuda in January 2025, with lyrics by Takashi Manjo and composition by Chiaki Oka.
It’s a passionate work distinguished by its rokyoku-style melodic turns.
The song powerfully sings of the way of life of a Japanese man who advances steadily, step by step, and its robust vocals are sure to move you.
If you’re facing obstacles in work or life, this is a track you should definitely hear.
It will give you the courage to face forward.
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.
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.
Feel-good song♪Ōe Yutaka
The classic “Gokigen Song♪,” with its bright, smile-inducing melody, leaves a lasting impression.
While the piece faithfully follows the hallmarks of enka-style melodies, the vocals throughout are arranged into a catchy, upbeat pop-like line.
In particular, the kobushi—often considered a challenging aspect of enka—appears infrequently here, and most instances are simple, involving a two-note pitch change, so you’ll hardly feel the typical difficulty associated with enka.
Be sure to add it to your repertoire.
Midway through life’s journeySatō Yoshito
You’ll be drawn in by its majestic tone.
“Life, Halfway Along the Road” is a song by Yoshito Sato from Yamagata Prefecture, released in December 2024.
It’s an enka piece that portrays life as it is, and as the song progresses, the feeling embedded in the lyrics—of moving toward one’s dreams—grows stronger, stirring the heart.
When you find yourself feeling reflective about life, this song will surely resonate.
Be sure to listen closely and take it all in!