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Lovely enka

Queen of Local Songs: Kaori Mizumori's Easy-to-Sing Tracks

Among female enka singers, Kaori Mizumori stands out as an especially catchy presence, loved by many fans.

When people think of enka, it often requires a very high level of vocal ability—but Kaori Mizumori is different.

Many of the enka songs she performs are catchy numbers that even those without strong singing skills can hum along to and sing together.

This time, we’ve selected some of Kaori Mizumori’s songs that are especially easy to sing.

Be sure to read to the end and find the tracks that suit you!

[Queen of Local Songs] Kaori Mizumori's Easy-to-Sing Tracks (11–20)

Tateyama Mountain RangeMizumori Kaori

“Tateyama Mountain Range” by Kaori Mizumori
Tateyama Mountain RangeMizumori Kaori

Kaori Mizumori’s classic “Tateyama Mountain Range.” Characterized by its bright atmosphere, this piece is set against the Tateyama Range in the northern Hida Mountains.

It’s an orthodox enka song with a slow tempo and a restrained use of kobushi (melodic ornaments).

The few kobushi that do appear don’t span more than three notes, making it very easy to sing even for those who struggle with enka.

While the vocal range is somewhat wide, with proper key adjustment anyone can sing it—so consider adding it to your repertoire.

Naruko GorgeMizumori Kaori

Kaori Mizumori “Naruko Gorge” Music Video (released January 19, 2021)
Naruko GorgeMizumori Kaori

Kaori Mizumori’s classic “Naruko Gorge” leaves a striking, weathered impression.

Set against the famed Miyagi Prefecture landmark Naruko Gorge, the song exudes melancholy and is woven throughout with a mature, heartrending melody.

Despite that, it’s very easy to sing: there are few kobushi (ornamental turns), and the ones that do appear are relatively simple.

There are also few powerful, forceful sections, so even singers without much volume can perform it comfortably.

However, there is a brief moment in the chorus that jumps quite high, so it’s important to identify the key that suits you.

If you can’t reach it in chest voice, one strategy is to intentionally raise the key so you can hit it in falsetto.

Osaka Love DropletMizumori Kaori

Kaori Mizumori “Osaka Koishizuku” MV Full Chorus (Release Date: March 18, 2025) [Official]
Osaka Love DropletMizumori Kaori

A song marked by a warm melody that gently embraces wounded hearts and lyrics rich with emotion.

Released in March 2025, it is Kaori Mizumori’s 30th anniversary debut commemorative single.

Mizumori is known for numerous regional-themed songs like “Tottori Sand Dunes” and “Kumano Kodo,” and in this work, too, her characteristically gentle voice evocatively portrays the cityscape of Osaka.

It’s a love song that encourages you with a message to look ahead and keep walking, overcoming the sadness and loneliness you’ve experienced in life.

In conclusion

This time, we introduced songs by Kaori Mizumori, who enjoys nationwide popularity as the queen of local-themed songs—did you find a favorite track? Her songs are among the easiest to sing even within the enka genre, so many of you might be thinking, “I could sing this myself.” At Rug Music, we also introduce easy-to-sing songs by various enka singers, so be sure to check those out as well!