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 for those who find high notes difficult! Enka by male singers that you can sing in a low register
- [2026] Amazing If You Can Sing It! Classic Enka Masterpieces [Male Singers Edition]
- [2026] Easy Enka Songs Recommended for Karaoke – Male Singers Edition
- [2026] Enka Songs That Are Hard to Sing – Male Singers Edition
- [For Beginners] Recommended Enka Masterpieces for Karaoke — Male Singers Edition
- [2026] Easy-to-Sing Enka: From Timeless Classics to Recent Hits [Male Singers Edition]
- [2026] Recent hit enka songs: must-watch popular kayō tracks
- [For Men] Masterpiece Enka Songs with High Difficulty
- A roundup of male enka singers who represent the Showa era
- [Enka] Songs That Are Easy to Sing Even for the Tone-Deaf [Male Singer Edition]
- [Flower News] A Collection of Hiroshi Takeshima’s Easy-to-Sing Songs [2026]
- [2026] Idol-Worthy! A Roundup of Handsome Male Enka Singers
- [Sub-chan] A Collection of Easy-to-Sing Songs by Saburo Kitajima [2026]
[2026] Recommended Enka Songs (1–10) by Male Singers with Captivating High Notes
Nostalgic JonkaraHosokawa Takashi
Released in 1985, this song by Takashi Hosokawa is a tour de force that brilliantly fuses folk elements with enka.
It conveys the poignant longing for the Tsugaru region hometown, expressed through Hosokawa’s soaring high notes and commanding vocal prowess.
Beginning with a shamisen intro, the folk-style melody leaves a strong impression and resonates deeply with listeners.
Notably, it was performed on NHK’s Kōhaku Uta Gassen five times between 1985 and 2005.
It’s a song with universal appeal that speaks not only to enka fans but also to those living away from their hometowns.
If you plan to try it at karaoke, pay close attention to keeping time in the folk-style sections.
Tokyo EnkaKurokawa Shinichiro
This work by Shinichiro Kurokawa, known for his appealing, soaring high notes.
Set in Tokyo’s traditional downtown, it captures the melancholy characteristic of enka by portraying the city’s bustle and people’s emotions, while also leaving an impression with its lively rhythm and bright atmosphere.
Released in February 2022, it captured the hearts of many enka fans.
Its natural vocal delivery—deemed “good enough” by the composer even at the demo stage—is a key charm.
The lyrics, depicting Tokyo’s scenery and human relationships, are sure to resonate with city dwellers.
Showcasing the full allure of the high register, this song is also recommended for those who want to test their vocal skills at karaoke.
The petal-blizzard from that dayOotaki Hikaru
Hikaru Ohtaki’s enka, which drew attention as her debut work.
Centered on the moving theme of a mother and child’s separation and reunion, the story deeply resonates with listeners.
Distinctive are the soaring high notes sung over a relaxed melody, showcasing Ohtaki’s vocal prowess to the fullest and earning high praise from enka fans.
Released in September 2022, the track has no official tie-ins, yet it has become popular in karaoke.
It’s recommended not only for those who relate to lyrics portraying the bond between mother and child, but also for anyone looking to discover a fresh appeal in enka.
Kanazawa Nostalgia SongMatsubara Takeshi
Takeshi Matsubara moves people’s hearts with his quietly powerful high notes.
Released in June 2005, this song drew major attention as his debut single and became a symbol of Kanazawa, even being used as background music in the concourse of JR Kanazawa Station.
It’s a masterpiece in which a deep affection for Kanazawa’s nature, culture, and the people who live there resonates through the lyrics and melody.
It’s recommended not only for fans of enka, but also for anyone who wants to feel the emotions tied to their hometown or a beloved place.
Back Alley Fireflieskoori kenta
The enka singer Kenta Koori, who is drawing attention in the genre, released a song in September 2024 that richly captures the emotions of a wistful love, likening it to the glow of fireflies.
Released to commemorate the 15th anniversary of his debut, the piece features lyrics depicting the fleeting scenes of love and a passionate vocal performance.
It’s packed with the appeal of enka that makes full use of a wide vocal range, allowing listeners to savor both his soaring high notes and his lustrous low-register expressiveness.
When trying it at karaoke, the key is to value emotional expression while minding the balance between highs and lows.
It’s a recommended track for those who want to touch on the subtleties of love and life.