[2026] Enka Songs That Are Hard to Sing – Male Singers Edition

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.

When it comes to enka, there’s an image that only truly skilled singers can pull it off.

Of course, there are relatively easy songs as well, and enka is a very popular genre at karaoke.

This time, we’ve put together a list of classic enka songs that are difficult to sing, aimed at those who are fairly accustomed to singing enka.

Beyond the genre’s signature techniques—like vibrato and kobushi (ornamental turns)—these songs demand high expressive ability, including handling wide vocal ranges.

In this article, we introduce masterpieces by male enka singers, but we also feature difficult-to-sing classics by female singers in another piece, so be sure to check that out as well.

[2026] Difficult-to-Sing Enka Songs — Male Singers Edition (11–20)

A man should just cry in silence.Miyashita Kenji

Kenji Miyashita “Men Should Cry in Silence” [Melody Records] Official Performance Video

A man should just cry in silence.Miyashita Kenji

A passionate new work marking the re-debut of veteran enka composer Kenji Miyashita as a singer.

This gem portrays the melancholy of men living through the Showa era, powerfully expressing deep-seated emotions and struggles.

While honoring the traditional enka style, it features modern arrangements for a heartwarming finish.

Released in February 2025, it captivated audiences at the KOBE Ryūkōka Live in Kobe with a fervent performance reminiscent of his days as a traveling street singer.

The coupling track includes “Jinsei Mayoizaka” (Life at the Crossroads).

Sincerely singing of life’s doubts and inner conflicts, this piece is recommended to enka fans as a song that gently soothes hearts weary from everyday life.

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The Northern CliffsYamauchi Keisuke

Keisuke Yamauchi “Cliffs of the North” Music Video

The Northern CliffsYamauchi Keisuke

This work gives voice to a woman’s aching heart, as if the sea breeze were piercing her chest.

Released in February 2025 to commemorate Keisuke Yamauchi’s 25th anniversary since debut, it perfectly pairs his powerful vocals with a melody that conveys emotions with no place to go.

Set against the sheer cliffs of the north, it portrays lingering attachment, frustration, and a loss of hope for tomorrow.

It is a song that will surely stay close to the hearts of those bearing the pain of love.

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In conclusion

Enka as a genre is inherently difficult to master unless you have above-average vocal ability.

Even those who are used to singing at karaoke may find the classic enka songs introduced here challenging.

They demand an even higher level of difficulty, with balanced pitch, a wide vocal range, and expressive techniques like the genre’s distinctive kobushi (melismatic ornamentation).

If you’re confident, definitely give them a try!