[Queen of Enka] A Collection of Easy-to-Sing Songs by Sayuri Ishikawa [2026]
Sayuri Ishikawa debuted as an idol at 15 but later shifted to enka.
In 1977, she skyrocketed to fame as a leading enka singer with the massive hit Tsugaru Strait – Winter Scene, a masterpiece that left its mark on enka history.
Since then, she has continued to sing many celebrated songs, earning the title “Queen of Enka,” while also showcasing her beautiful voice and vocal prowess across various genres, including pop-style tracks.
Ishikawa’s songs are, of course, hugely popular for karaoke.
This time, especially for beginners to enka, we’ve researched her more singable tracks and will introduce selections ranging from classic hits to songs released in the Reiwa era and beyond!
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[Queen of Enka] A Collection of Easy-to-Sing Songs by Sayuri Ishikawa [2026] (11–20)
Daphne (winter daphne)Ishikawa Sayuri
Released in 1977, “Jinchoge” is an early masterpiece by Sayuri Ishikawa, who had transitioned from an idol to an enka singer and was riding a wave of success after her 1977 hit “Tsugaru Strait—Winter Scene.” While she had been releasing songs by the duo Yū Aku (lyrics) and Takashi Miki (composition), this track is notably penned by Ryo Shoji, composed by Katsuo Ōno, and arranged by Koji Makaino—a fascinating shift.
The overall key is on the higher side, which can be challenging for those who struggle with high notes; however, the kobushi and vibrato are not overly intense, and the pitch movement is relatively restrained, making the melody itself quite singable.
With its strong kayōkyoku flavor, it’s also recommended for fans of Showa-era Japanese pop.
You like whisky, don’t you?Ishikawa Sayuri
Even if you’re not very familiar with Sayuri Ishikawa as an enka singer, you’ve probably heard this song somewhere.
Released in 1991 under the name SAYURI, the single “Whisky ga, Osukidesho” (“You Like Whisky, Don’t You?”) was composed by Mari Sugiyama—who has crafted countless J-pop classics as well as many commercial jingles—and its jazz-vocal style made it a highly unusual track for an enka singer.
Since it was used in the late 2000s as the theme for Suntory Kakubin commercials, it has become the signature song of those ads, with cover versions by artists like The Gospellers and Mariya Takeuchi also featured, so some people may not have realized it was originally Ishikawa’s song.
While it presents a different kind of challenge than enka, it’s a great piece to sing by letting yourself sink into its stylish atmosphere and enjoying the flow.
The Promised MoonIshikawa Sayuri
Featuring a music video that captivates with Sayuri Ishikawa not in her usual kimono but dressed in a chic outfit, Yakusoku no Tsuki is a commemorative song marking the start of the 51st year of her career.
Released in April 2023, it is said to be the posthumous work of the master composer Takashi Miki.
Ishikawa’s refined and beautiful vocal delivery, which carefully brings out the melody, deeply moves listeners, and it’s a song you’ll surely want to sing with feeling at karaoke.
The enka-style vocals are kept understated, and a relatively J-pop approach is more than enough to convey its appeal, so practice repeatedly to ensure you can produce the high notes cleanly.
Eternal JourneyIshikawa Sayuri
The single song “Tokoshie no Tabi,” released in June 2024, is a single by Sayuri Ishikawa, with lyrics by Goro Matsui, music by Tokiko Kato, and arrangement by Neko Saito.
It conveys a sense of compassionate, Buddha-like serenity that reflects her long career, while her unchangingly beautiful voice leaves you feeling purified.
While retaining elements of enka, the song has the vibe of a medium-tempo J-pop ballad, so Ishikawa refrains from kobushi ornamentation and heavy vibrato, instead delivering the wistful melody gently—making it easy to sing even for those who aren’t fond of enka.
Take time to read the lyrics thoroughly, and try to sing with heartfelt feeling.
human dramaIshikawa Sayuri
Human Moyo (Human Patterns), with lyrics by Aku Yū and music by Sugimoto Mahito, is a single released by Sayuri Ishikawa in 2003.
It’s a love song in a major key that feels bright yet somehow wistful, featuring warmly toned guitar and Ishikawa’s intimate, conversational singing—such a lovely combination.
It’s also very popular for karaoke, and many people likely have it in their repertoire.
The characteristic enka-style vocal ornamentation (kobushi) is used relatively lightly, and the song includes J-pop elements, making it approachable even for beginners to enka.
Among Ishikawa’s songs, the pitch range is set on the lower side, so it’s easier to sing for those who struggle with high notes.
In conclusion
As mentioned at the beginning, Ms. Ishikawa, who made a successful transition from idol to enka singer, values enka as her core while actively taking on collaborations with artists across genres and generations. She also has many pop-style songs that are easy to sing even for those unfamiliar with enka. Of course, Ms. Ishikawa’s true forte is enka, so please use this article as a guide and try singing her enka songs at karaoke!