【2026】Difficult Enka Songs to Sing — Women Singers Edition

music writerKOH-1
Started working as a music writer as a side job while employed at a record shop, and for over 18 years I’ve contributed to music magazines, disc guide books, mooks, and web media. As a writer my main field is Western music, but as a listener for over 35 years, I always try to keep my curiosity alive with the motto “I like what I like.” I have experience playing in bands, where I was a bassist who handled songwriting and composition. Instruments I’ve played include bass, guitar, and piano. I began studying English in my mid-40s and continue to do so today.

Speaking of enka, it’s a genre that demands above-average skill to sing—think distinctive phrasing with strong kobushi (ornamental turns), heavy use of vibrato, and overall exceptional vocal technique, especially for karaoke.

Of course, there are easier songs to sing, but this article compiles classic enka tracks that are particularly challenging to perform.

In addition to the characteristic enka vocal style mentioned at the start, these songs line up as high-difficulty pieces that require strong expressive ability, considering factors like wide vocal range.

This piece introduces masterpieces by female enka singers, but we also feature difficult-to-sing classics by male singers in another article, so be sure to check that out as well.

[2026] Difficult Enka Songs to Sing – Female Singers Edition (11–20)

Snow Love BlossomIchikawa Yukino

Yukino Ichikawa / YUKIRENGE (Short ver.) [Promotional Video]

Snow Love BlossomIchikawa Yukino

Yukino Ichikawa made her debut in her teens and, armed with solid ability, has remained at the forefront from the early Heisei era to today in Reiwa.

The song introduced here, “Yukikoi-bana,” was released in January 2019 and became her last track of the Heisei era, just before the transition to Reiwa—a true classic.

Beyond Ichikawa’s superb vocals that convey a burning, passionate yet heartrending love, the song’s dramatic structure—blending elements of kayōkyoku and J-pop—makes it enjoyable even for listeners beyond enka fans.

It’s the kind of piece you’ll want to try at karaoke, but it’s not so easy to master.

Its defining feature is the wide vocal range, and delivering a seamless contrast between the calm verses and the dynamically developing chorus requires considerable singing ability and expressive power.

That said, it doesn’t demand shockingly high notes, so rather than relying on superficial tricks, first focus on clear enunciation and channeling your overflowing emotions into the song.

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Yosare Onna-bushiShiina Sachiko

[Music Video] Sachiko Shiina “Yosare Onna-bushi” <Full>

Yosare Onna-bushiShiina Sachiko

Set against the climate and festivals of the Tsugaru region, a new enka song beautifully portrays the feelings of a woman who keeps waiting for her beloved in her hometown.

Inspired by the folk song “Kuroishi Yosare,” the interwoven scenes of festive bustle and wistful melancholy are deeply moving.

Sachiko Shiina’s powerful yet delicate vocals superbly convey the protagonist’s strong will and aching heart.

Released on February 12, 2025, the song features lyrics by Kanade Hino-ura and composition by Chiaki Oka—both highly accomplished creators.

Its universal themes—such as the anguish of an unfulfilled love and a profound attachment to one’s hometown—resonate with anyone.

Highly recommended for those who find themselves recalling their nostalgic hometown on lonely nights in the city.

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In conclusion

As mentioned at the beginning, enka as a genre is difficult to pull off unless you have above-average vocal ability. Even people who are fairly used to singing, such as at karaoke, will likely find the songs introduced here challenging. Not only do they demand precise pitch, but also a wide vocal range and expressive techniques unique to enka, such as the distinctive kobushi (melismatic ornamentation). If you’re confident in your skills, definitely give them a try!