[People・Songs・Heart] A Collection of Miyuki Kawanaka’s Easy-to-Sing Songs [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.

Speaking of Miyuki Kawanaka, she debuted in her teens under the name Harumi Kasuga, then, after several years of groundwork, changed to her current name in 1977.

In 1980, one of her signature songs, “Futari Sake,” became a hit, and she appeared on the following year’s Kōhaku Uta Gassen.

She remains a leading enka singer, still active even in the Reiwa era.

For those who want to try singing many of Kawanaka’s celebrated songs at karaoke, this article highlights and compiles relatively approachable tracks that are easier to take on.

Singing like Kawanaka—effortlessly handling everything from soaring high notes and sultry low tones to powerful vocals that give you a strong push—is no easy feat, but let’s practice step by step so we can get closer.

[People • Songs • Heart] A Collection of Miyuki Kawanaka’s Easy-to-Sing Songs [2026] (11–20)

Isn’t it a man?kawanaka miyuki

Isn't he a man? Performed by Miyuki Kawanaka.

Isn't it a man?kawanaka miyuki

While Miyuki Kawanaka’s alluring enka is highly acclaimed, her “men’s songs” are also praised.

Among the many men’s songs she has released, the one I especially recommend is Otoko Ja Nai Ka (“Aren’t You a Man”).

As the bold title suggests, this piece is characterized by a very powerful vocal delivery.

Despite its strength, it doesn’t require the delicate, intricate kobushi (melismatic turns), so you can sing it boldly.

If you want to sound more polished, try raising the key to the point where your voice slightly flips when you execute the kobushi.

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In conclusion

Over more than 50 years as a singer, Ms. Kawanaka has continued to release new songs regularly and remain at the forefront without any long hiatuses—truly a model enka performer. As mentioned at the start, perfectly mastering the songs she sings so beautifully requires considerable practice, but for now, use the songs introduced here as a reference and start by trying the ones you like!