Legendary enka songs that fire up the crowd. A song catalog of enka picks you won’t go wrong with at karaoke.
For those who think, “When I go to karaoke, I want to hype up the room with enka, but I don’t know what to sing,” and for anyone who wants to surprise their coworkers, friends, or family by singing something different than usual—this is a must-read! In this article, we’ll introduce a lineup of classic enka songs that are guaranteed to get the crowd going.
We’ve picked not only upbeat tracks and songs that are fun for call-and-response, but also well-known enka standards.
Use this as a guide when choosing your next karaoke setlist.
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Classic Enka Songs That Get the Crowd Going: A Karaoke-Proof Enka Selection Catalog (11–20)
Urban Shooting StarMizuki Natsumi
If you’re looking to sing an up-tempo number, this one’s a must.
It’s a single by Natsumi Mizuki, released in June 2025.
Written and composed by Kiyohiro Kashiwa, the song is set in the city at night and portrays a woman’s strength as she tries to overcome the heartache of a breakup.
With dynamic guitar sounds paired with Mizuki’s powerful vocals, this rock-enka track gives you courage just by listening.
Belt it out at karaoke, and you’re sure to get everyone fired up with you.
Naniwa SpiritSakamoto Fuyumi
It’s a powerful song that makes you want to call it the spirit of Osaka.
It’s Fuyumi Sakamoto’s first cheer song themed around Osaka, released in March 2025.
Selected as a recommended track by TBS Radio, the piece also drew attention for reuniting her with composer Chiaki Oka after roughly nine years.
The lyrics’ worldview—emphasizing the importance of moving forward without succumbing to adversity and portraying people who grow through perseverance—really hits home.
Sing it at karaoke, and you’re sure to lift your listeners’ spirits.
the sunShimazu Aya
How about a warm enka song that gently stays by your side in life? It’s a quintessential, classic number powerfully sung by Aya Shimazu.
Released as a single in May 2024.
With lyrics that gently embrace life’s uncertainties and encourage you to be your true self, doesn’t it seep into your heart? Take your time singing it at karaoke and give a supportive push to those listening.
Like myself…Toukyou Rikisha
How about a powerful, heart-stirring enka ballad? It’s a song by Tokyo Rikisha, a group of active rickshaw pullers from Asakusa, set to be released as a single in February 2025.
It’s also been a hot topic because Joji Yamamoto, a legend in the enka world, wrote the lyrics based on his own experiences.
While looking back on the past, the song portrays a burning resolve to live true to oneself, and just listening to it makes your heart swell.
Belt it out at karaoke and it might even deepen the bonds with your friends.
festivalKitajima Saburō
Saburo Kitajima has produced numerous classic songs.
When it comes to his signature tunes, isn’t “Matsuri” the one that comes to mind? Its poppiness and lively energy—unusual for enka—are irresistibly catchy.
Incidentally, the “festival” sung about in this song is a bountiful-catch festival.
These days, though, it’s become common—and beloved—to tweak the lyrics to suit the occasion, turning it into things like a “Kouhaku Festival” or a “Heisei Festival.” Because it’s so easy to customize, it can fit all sorts of situations, from birthdays to welcome parties.
Late-Blooming HEROyuasa michiru
Among Yuasa Michiru’s songs, this is one of the most striking—a single released in May 2024.
It’s defined by an exotic atmosphere and avant-garde vocals, resonating with many as an anthem for those who keep chasing their dreams.
It portrays people who, even while drenched in the rain, refuse to give up and keep working hard, offering the courage to face difficulties.
It’s perfect for anyone looking to take on a challenge or holding a strong, unyielding will.
Classic enka songs that fire up the crowd. A catalog of enka picks you won’t fail with at karaoke (21–30)
That girl is dotchicchi.Eya Masashi
This was Masashi Eya’s major-label debut.
With lyrics by Reiji Mizuki and music by Hideo Mizumori, it tells a poignant love story about searching everywhere for someone you love who has disappeared.
The catchy melody contrasted with the seeping sorrow is irresistibly moving.
The frustration conveyed in his vocals makes your chest tighten without you even realizing it.
Evoking the atmosphere of a Showa-era coming-of-age drama, this world is perfect for anyone who wants to remember what it feels like to be in love.