[Enka] Songs That Are Easy to Sing Even for the Tone-Deaf [Male Singer Edition]

Oh, sake!Yoshi Ikuzo

Oh, sake!

One of the most iconic songs in the Japanese enka world, this piece expresses the feelings of a lonely man through the metaphor of alcohol.

Written and composed by Ikuzo Yoshi himself, its profound lyrics and wistful melody have deeply moved many listeners.

Released in September 1988, it won numerous awards, including the Grand Prix at the All-Japan Cable Broadcasting Awards.

It also appeared twice on NHK’s Kōhaku Uta Gassen and has sold a total of about 279,000 copies.

Because it’s a famous song and relatively easy in terms of difficulty, even those who aren’t confident singers should be able to manage the chorus.

For now, enjoy it and gradually get used to it!

12th graderFunaki Kazuo

12th grader

A refreshing youth song that beautifully caps off high school life.

Set to a march-like rhythm, it sings of memories, the sadness of parting, and hope for the future.

Upon its release in June 1963, it became a smash hit and came to be known as one of Kazuo Funaki’s signature songs.

A film of the same name was also produced, with Funaki himself in the lead role.

This piece is recommended not only for high school students but also for adults who feel nostalgic about their school days.

Since the melodic range isn’t very wide, it’s relatively easy to sing even for those who consider themselves tone-deaf.

Even just joining in together on the chorus line that begins with “The red setting sun…” is sure to get everyone fired up.

EbisuSanada Naoki

[MV] Naoki Sanada / Ebisu (full ver.)

Produced by Ikuzo Yoshi, this song tells a love story set in the Ebisu district.

Naoki Sanada, known for his captivating husky voice, delivers an emotionally rich performance.

The lyrics skillfully depict the progression of romance while weaving in the transition from autumn to winter and then to spring, leaving a strong impression.

Released in January 2020, it reached No.

1 on the Oricon Weekly Singles Enka/Kayō ranking.

With its urban atmosphere and warm lyrics, it’s an easy song to enjoy at karaoke.

Even if you’re not confident in your singing ability, belting out the chorus with power should be more than enough to get the crowd going.

Scorpio womanMikawa Ken’ichi

Kenichi Mikawa “Woman of Scorpio (New Recording)” (Official Audio)

This is a smash hit by Kenichi Mikawa, featuring an irresistibly moody, wistful saxophone in the intro! Released in 1972, this song is said to be one of Mikawa’s signature works.

It has been performed multiple times on NHK’s Kōhaku Uta Gassen and remains a classic in enka history that many artists continue to cover.

With a relatively narrow vocal range and an easy-to-remember melody, it’s particularly recommended for those who struggle with high notes.

Channel your inner Mikawa and have fun!

Musashikanmuri jiro

Jiro Kanmuri / Musashi [“Kanmuri Revolution” PV Ver.]

Sung by enka heavyweight Jiro Kanmuri, this piece is a captivating song that fuses a powerful vocal style with Japanese tradition.

Using the life of Miyamoto Musashi as its motif, it delves deeply into life’s choices and solitude.

Released by Nippon Columbia in April 1993, it also became a popular track included on the album “Tokusenshu Kan Jiro / Musashi” the same year.

While it’s by no means an easy song to sing, its upbeat, rock-inflected elements make it surprisingly singable if you go for it and have fun.

Northern SpringSen Masao

[Audio Sample] Masao Sen "Spring in the Northern Country" (Short ver.)

It’s a classic enka masterpiece, with lyrics that gently depict the spring scenery of northern Japan and a melody that deeply touches the heart.

Released in April 1977, this song gives voice to feelings of longing for one’s hometown, offering comfort to those weary of city life.

It has sold over 3 million copies in total and won the Long-Seller Award at the 21st Japan Record Awards in 1979.

The chorus phrase “shirakaba—aozora—minami kaze—” is easy to remember and to sing in tune, making it an approachable song even for those who aren’t fond of enka.

It’s perfect when you want to liven up a karaoke session or sink into a nostalgic mood.

Hello from countries around the worldMinami Haruo

Haruo Minami, 'Hello from the Countries of the World'

Born as the theme song for the 1970 Osaka World Expo, this piece carries a warm message of welcoming people from around the globe.

With its repeated “Konnichiwa” and many simple, memorable phrases, it clearly expresses a wish for international exchange.

Released in March 1967, the song became a competitive release performed by multiple artists, including Haruo Minami, and went on to be a massive hit, selling over three million copies.

When singing it at karaoke, make the most of the bright lyrics and familiar melody—smile and sing with energy.

If any parts are difficult, you can skip them and just enjoy singing the “Konnichiwa” chorus; that alone will liven up the room.

North TavernHosokawa Takashi

North Tavern

Set in a northern-country tavern, this classic song vividly portrays the blossoming of love from a man and woman’s first meeting.

Takashi Hosokawa, renowned for his soaring high notes and formidable lung capacity, captivates listeners with a performance that blends pop sensibilities beyond the traditional enka framework.

Released in March 1982, the song became a runaway hit after being featured on the TV show “Kin-chan no Dokomade Yaru no!” It went on to win the Japan Record Award that year and secured a spot on the Kouhaku Uta Gassen.

With its lively rhythm and catchy melody, it remains a karaoke favorite.

Easy to pitch and approachable, it’s a great choice even for those who aren’t confident singers—give it a try.

Kiyoshi’s Zundoko SongHikawa Kiyoshi

Kiyoshi Hikawa / Kiyoshi no Zundoko-bushi [Official]

If you just happen to hear this song, your body starts moving and you break into Bon Odori before you know it… There must be many people like that.

Released in 2002, this song became a massive hit as one of Kiyoshi Hikawa’s signature tracks, bringing a fresh breeze to the enka world.

It’s marked by the memorable phrase “Zun zun zun zundoko” and its bright, rhythmic melody.

In fact, it’s a high-difficulty song—hard to pitch and with a wide vocal range.

Still, don’t overthink it: ride the distinctive phrasing and rhythm and sing your heart out for maximum fun! It’s the perfect tune for livening up karaoke or singing together with friends.

Big brotherYamakawa Yutaka

Yutaka Yamakawa “Aniki” Music Video

This work, featuring Yutaka Yamakawa’s captivating vocals, is an enka song themed around the bond between brothers.

The lyrics skillfully portray brotherly love, growth, and the interplay of unspoken emotions, leaving a deep impression.

Released in October 2024, this track is Yamakawa’s second single since moving to Nippon Crown.

Vivid depictions stand out, such as the older brother, weary from city life yet longing for his hometown, and scenes of the brothers silently sharing drinks.

Even if enka isn’t your specialty, the simple, powerful melody line makes the chorus alone easy to enjoy.

Give it a listen when you want to feel the bonds of family and friends.