[Queen of Enka] A Collection of Easy-to-Sing Songs by Sayuri Ishikawa [2026]

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.

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!

[Queen of Enka] A Collection of Easy-to-Sing Songs by Sayuri Ishikawa [2026] (11–20)

human dramaIshikawa Sayuri

Sayuri Ishikawa “Human Patterns” Music Video (full ver.)

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.

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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!