Women’s Enka: A collection of classic enka songs expressing women’s emotions

atonementTeresa Ten

atonement

Teresa Teng is a female singer who enjoys legendary popularity in Taiwan.

She became famous for her heartrending songs, and among them, “Tsunugai” (Atonement) is especially known for its melancholic tone.

This piece leans more toward kayōkyoku (Japanese pop ballad) than enka, and it doesn’t feature kobushi, the vocal ornament that often poses a challenge in enka.

The melody’s pitch movement is also gentle, making the vocal line less prone to intonation slips.

From every perspective, it’s a song that’s easy to sing.

Consider adding it to your repertoire.

expand_lessRaise the rankingexpand_morelower

Ryo

Report a problem

Let yourself go with the flow of timeTeresa Ten

Let yourself go with the flow of time

Teresa Teng, the legendary singer from Taiwan.

If you’re in your late 40s or older, you probably know her.

Among her songs, the one I especially recommend is “Toki no Nagare ni Mi o Makase” (I Only Care About You).

The trickiest part of this piece is probably the falsetto near the end of the chorus.

I think many people struggle there.

In that case, instead of lowering the key, I actually recommend trying to raise it.

Falsetto can sometimes be harder to produce at lower pitches, so give it a try.

expand_lessRaise the rankingexpand_morelower

Ryo

Report a problem

Tear SongOka Midori

Midori Oka “Namida Uta” Music Video

Midori Oka once performed in an idol group, but she chose the path of an enka singer and is now highly acclaimed as a regular on the Kōhaku Uta Gassen.

This work is a song that portrays the feelings of a lonely woman set against the backdrop of a winter city.

Its fragile, melancholic lyrics pair perfectly with Oka’s voice, which blends strength and delicacy.

You’ll be moved by the heartrending yet richly emotive melody that stands in stark contrast to the coldness of urban life.

Demanding a wide vocal range and nuanced expression, this piece showcases Oka’s skills to the fullest.

It’s packed with the charm she has cultivated through a steadily built enka career, and it’s also a great choice for those who want to try it at karaoke.

Longing for RainYashiro Aki

Aki Yashiro “Yearning in the Rain”

It’s no exaggeration to call this one of the defining songs of the 1980s.

Though it takes rain as its theme, it’s a classic filled with a bright, positive message.

That’s a feature that sets it apart from traditional enka and captured the hearts of many.

Released in April 1980, the song won the 22nd Japan Record Award.

It also closed out that year’s Kohaku Uta Gassen, making it a milestone in Aki Yashiro’s career.

With its rhythmic melody and easy-to-remember lyrics, it’s great for karaoke beginners.

The choreography—turning your palms up toward the sky during the chorus—is also distinctive and makes it fun to sing along.

Be sure to pay attention to the lyrics, which express the feelings of a woman after a breakup.

I’m drunk.Utsumi Miyuki

I’m drunk.

Released in 1982, this smash hit is an enka song with a kayōkyoku flavor that portrays a woman’s aching feelings through the metaphor of alcohol.

It sold over 300,000 copies and remains a karaoke favorite.

The lyrics, which depict a woman pretending to be drunk to mask her bravado and inner sorrow, resonated with many.

With a simple melody and repeated phrases, it’s a tune you can carry off by feel even if you miss a note.

Recommended for those who’ve experienced heartbreak or parting; you can enjoy it by duetting with friends or just singing the chorus.

It’s a perfect number to liven up a drinking get-together or to close out the night.

Memories SakeKobayashi Sachiko

Omoidezake

A masterpiece whose wistful melody and heartrending lyrics resonate deeply.

The lyrics portray a woman recalling a past love as she drinks, a theme that has struck a chord with many and kept the song beloved for years.

Released in January 1979, it was originally a B-side, but its popularity on cable radio led to it becoming the A-side.

It ranked No.

1 on that year’s “The Best Ten” annual chart and also won the 21st Japan Record Awards’ Best Vocal Performance.

The song is extremely demanding to sing, requiring rich expressiveness and a wide vocal range.

It’s a perfect piece for testing one’s enka singing ability.

Karatachi DiaryShimakura Chiyoko

Karatachi Diary

A gem of a classic by Chiyoko Shimakura, delivered with heartfelt emotion.

Released in 1958, this song is characterized by lyrics that vividly depict the pain of heartbreak and loneliness, paired with a melody that stirs poignant feelings.

With lyrics by Sawayaka Nishizawa and music by Shinichi Yoneda, the piece showcases Shimakura’s full vocal and expressive prowess.

The spoken interludes woven into the lyrics and the mid-song shift to a minor key are among the elements that resonate deeply with listeners.

Cherished for decades as a Showa-era masterpiece and featured in television dramas, this work may be a bit challenging—but do give it a try.