A Man’s Way of Life: Songs of Men. Masterpieces packed with manly valor and aesthetics.
We’ve gathered a collection of classic songs packed with the aesthetics of manhood.
Across every genre—rock, pop, enka—you’ll find the way men live sung about in many forms.
Men may usually keep things inside, yet hold firm convictions; their willingness to take on challenges, or conversely, the strength to face their own vulnerabilities, also feels distinctly masculine.
A broad-minded generosity and single-minded devotion can be especially attractive from a woman’s perspective, too.
In this article, we introduce many timeless tracks that touch on the path of a man’s life and on love.
Every song is valiant and stirring.
Music by men that even men admire—let’s listen closely and take it all in!
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- Great songs recommended for men. Masterpieces and popular Japanese songs that resonate with the heart.
- [For Beginners] Recommended Enka Masterpieces for Karaoke — Male Singers Edition
[A Man’s Way of Life] Songs of Men: Masterpieces Packed with Masculine Bravery and Aesthetics (81–90)
Lifetime RespectMiki Dōsan
A man’s love song that sings of deep love and respect.
Set to a laid-back reggae groove, his single-minded feelings come through straight and true.
Released in July 2001, this track had a major impact on Japan’s reggae scene, and it also drew attention for being featured in the film “Moteki.” The lyrics are sprinkled with everyday episodes and topical references, resonating with listeners.
This work is perfect when you want to reaffirm your love for someone important or express your honest feelings.
A heartwarming song that many can relate to for its portrayal of a man’s awkward, genuine affection.
The Sea, That LoveKayama Yūzō
It’s a song that only Wakadaishō Kayama can sing.
The sea is truly the best stage where a man’s dreams and romance can be fully expressed—a shining arena for the soul of a man to come alive.
That image is depicted to the fullest.
Judging from the melody of this song, it seems to evoke elegance rather than roughness.
Oh, sake!Yoshi Ikuzo
This is a song known as one of Ikuzo Yoshi’s signature works.
It’s an enka number with a deep, lingering flavor that speaks of a man’s life through the metaphor of alcohol.
Yoshi’s distinctive vocal timbre and heartfelt singing resonate deeply with listeners.
Released in 1988, the song reflects the social atmosphere of the time while portraying the feelings of a man drinking alone.
It also shines with skilled folk-guitar playing and vocal techniques inherited from traditional folk songs.
It’s the perfect track for quietly sipping a drink at night and reflecting on life.
Recommended for those who want to feel a man’s way of life and his love.
You are more beautiful than a rose.Fuse Akira
An immortal masterpiece that sings of a man’s passion and resolve.
The lyrics, marveling at a woman’s transformation while praising her beauty, are deeply moving.
Released in January 1979 as the 42nd single, it was also featured in a Kanebo Cosmetics commercial.
Performed four times on NHK’s Kōhaku Uta Gassen, it proved so popular that at the 58th edition in 2007, an OG cheering squad from the Takarazuka Revue rushed to the stage.
This work, which conveys a sincere devotion to a loved one, is recommended when you want to express your feelings to someone important or to rally yourself.
Combined with Akira Fuse’s soaring vocals, it’s a song that resonates deeply with listeners.
A life full of scarsTsuruta Koji
A song full of rugged charm that portrays a man confronting the hardships of life.
Koji Tsuruta’s distinctive vocal style and deep, resonant voice strike a chord with listeners.
Released in 1971, it entered the Oricon Top 10 within three months and became a massive hit, selling nearly one million copies.
Two films with the same title were also produced, with Tsuruta himself starring.
The wistful melody and lyrics convey the weight of life and have continued to be cherished by many.
When you’re lost or hurting in life, why not lend an ear to this work?
Who would not think of their hometown?Kirishima Noboru
I think men, generally speaking, tend to value camaraderie more than women do.
Memories of going out and playing together back in our hometown are somehow picturesque beyond words.
With women, even if they have close friends, the impression I get is more of enjoying lively conversations.
It’s quite an old song, but it’s a classic that many singers have covered and passed down.
[A Man’s Way of Life] Songs of Men: Masterpieces Filled with Masculine Bravery and Aesthetics (91–100)
A Man’s LifeSuizenji Kiyoko
A new song included on the album “The Essence of Support Songs ~A Man’s Life~,” commemorating the 60th anniversary of her debut, it’s a cheering anthem themed around a man’s way of life.
With lyrics by the late Tetsurō Hoshino and music by Jendai Kanō, this piece has been nurtured for around 20 years.
Kiyoko Suizenji’s powerful vocals portray a man who values compassion over honor or money.
The song celebrates the strength of a man who, though troubled by love and duty, lives with pride.
Released on October 15, 2024, the album also features past classics such as “March of 365 Steps” and “Ippondokko no Uta.” It’s a reassuring track not only for longtime fans but also for anyone feeling lost in life.