【2026】Recommended Enka by Male Singers with Captivating High Notes

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.

Suddenly, if we’re asked to name enka masterpieces known for their high notes, how many can you think of?

Looking at chart-topping J-pop, even today in the Reiwa era there are plenty of songs sung by male vocalists in quite high ranges.

Enka, however, tends to give the impression of melodies spanning a broad range that are delivered with advanced vocal technique and expressive power, rather than emphasizing high notes per se.

In this article, we’ve compiled masterpieces by singers who showcase the soaring, beautiful high notes unique to enka.

From classic songs loved for generations to the latest tracks by up-and-coming artists, this is a must-read not only for listeners who love male high-tone vocals but also for those looking for a challenge at karaoke!

[2026] Recommended Enka Songs by Male Singers with Captivating High Notes (11–20)

Funamizaka (Funami Slope)Sora Daiki

Funamizaka (Funami Slope)

Funamizaka (Funami Slope)Sora Daiki

Set in a northern port town, this is a wistful love song.

Released in May 2025, it is positioned as the third installment in Daiki Sora’s “Hokkaido Series.” The story, set against famous sights in Otaru, paints vivid scenes in the listener’s mind.

Sora’s sweet yet heartrending vocals beautifully capture the delicate emotions of the male narrator.

The worldview, where the cityscape overlaps with a bittersweet romance, is a must-hear.

Be sure to give it a close listen!

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inner voiceFutami Souichi

Soichi Futami “Voice of the Heart” MUSIC VIDEO

inner voiceFutami Souichi

A milestone 10th single by Soichi Futami, released in September 2025.

The composition is by Joji Hara—better known as Saburo Kitajima—the giant of the enka world.

It’s a classic gratitude song that feels like entrusting one’s spirit to the next generation, structured in three chapters that address Mother, Friend, and Father.

From memories of lullabies heard in childhood to heartfelt thanks for the important people met in life, the song weaves gratitude with care.

His “echoing mountain-voice,” honed through folk singing, and his skillful phrasing seem to breathe warm life into every word.

It’s a song you’ll want to hear when you wish to say “thank you” to someone precious.

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In conclusion

As mentioned at the outset, high vocals in the world of enka have a different kind of appeal from so-called modern J-pop.

What’s great about the songs chosen this time is that none of them force extreme high notes; instead, they let the beautiful melodies and Japanese lyrics ring out clearly and expansively.

If you found a singer you liked among those introduced here, be sure to dig deeper and check out their other songs!