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Songs with titles that start with “Na.” A hint for shiritori!

Do any songs come to mind that start with “na”? There are lots of words that begin with “na” and seem likely to be used in song titles—like “natsu” (summer), “nagisa” (beach), and “namae” (name).

In this article, we’ll introduce a bunch of songs with titles that start with “na.” Feel free to use this as a reference for shiritori using only song titles, or for karaoke shiritori where you pick the next song based on the last letter of the previous title.

Let’s dive right in!

Songs with titles starting with “Na.” Useful as shiritori hints! (411–420)

Namida-bushiKitajima Saburō

A song set on the seas of Hokkaido that portrays the harsh lives and romances of fishermen.

Tetsurō Hoshino’s emotionally rich lyrics blend beautifully with Tōru Funamura’s wistful melody, and Saburō Kitajima’s powerful vocals resonate deeply with listeners.

Released in June 1962, it became a million-seller and won the New Artist Award at the 4th Japan Record Awards.

Long carried on as one of Kitajima’s signature songs, it is still loved by many.

Its lyrics, depicting the loneliness and farewells of men of the sea, overlap with the life experiences of those who have aged, evoking deep empathy.

It’s the perfect song for looking back on memories with someone dear.

tearful disposition; tendency to cry easilyKitagawa Yūji

A poignant song by Yuji Kitagawa that portrays the pain of heartbreak and the ache of loneliness.

It gently soaks in with delicate vocals, conveying a woman’s lingering attachment to a former lover and the solitary nights she endures.

Despite its major key, the Bayon rhythm exudes a wistful air, showcasing the emotive allure of enka.

Released in May 2024, this piece commemorates the 40th anniversary of his debut—a gem of a ballad born from his collaboration with his mentor, Tetsuya Gen.

Recommended for anyone who has experienced a broken heart or loves pure romance.

It’s the kind of song that makes you want to sip a drink while losing yourself in Kitagawa’s warm, embracing voice.

Alone on the shoreChiba Kazuo

Kazuo Chiba “Alone on the Beach” Music Video
Alone on the shoreChiba Kazuo

This is a single by Enka veteran Kazuo Chiba, slated for release in April 2025.

With an emotionally rich melody, it beautifully captures the poignant feelings of recalling a past love on a twilight shore.

The lyrics by Hajime Ryū and the composition crafted by Kaoru Hanagasa are a perfect match, resulting in a work that truly resonates with listeners.

It’s a gem of a track for those who relate to the subtleties of life and the ache of bittersweet love, and for anyone seeking Enka that speaks directly to the heart.

Summer (Special)karakka

Summer (Special) / Karakka feat. KAFU
Summer (Special)karakka

A nostalgic Vocaloid rock-pop tune that evokes a breezy summer.

Karakka’s “Summer (Special)” was released in August 2023.

The light, upbeat band sound is pleasing, and the melody makes you want to hum along.

And the choice of words in the lyrics—that’s exactly Karakka’s hallmark, isn’t it? It’s like capturing an ordinary moment from a summer day; be sure to savor that poetic expression for yourself.

South… spring and summerYoshi Ikuzo

Ikuzo Yoshi “Nanbu… Spring and Summer” [Official] | Full Chorus MV
South... spring and summerYoshi Ikuzo

Ikuzo Yoshi is well known for songs that praise his hometown, and among them, the one I especially recommend for its ease of singing is “Nanbu…

Spring and Summer.” Its lyrics overflow with scenes of home and a deep nostalgia for them, and the melody is crafted with a warm tone to match.

With a very relaxed tempo, it features no fast, intricate kobushi (ornamental turns) or kobushi that span more than three scale steps, so even those who feel uneasy about enka should be able to sing it without trouble.

Navigatormeiyo densetsu

Honor Legend – Navigator (Music Video)
Navigatormeiyo densetsu

The new song by Meiyo Densetsu is a heartwarming number that depicts the journey of love and life.

Set to a lively melody that blends rock and pop, it sings about two people walking the road of life together.

Its romantic and poetic expressions are especially captivating.

Released in August 2024, this track is packed with the band’s charm.

They’re also slated to appear at major events, so we can look forward to even more from them.

It’s perfect as BGM for a drive date, and it’s a song you can listen to with your partner and truly relate to.

Be sure to check it out!

Don’t cry.Wada Hiroshi to Mahina Sutāzu

A signature work by Hiroshi Wada and the Mahina Stars, renowned as a classic of Showa-era mood kayō (romantic ballads).

Released in 1958, this song is a ballad about the sorrow of parting that resonates deeply with listeners.

Set to a gentle tempo, the soundscape woven by Hiroshi Wada’s soft vocals and the Mahina Stars’ beautiful harmonies creates a vivid sense of presence, as if witnessing a farewell scene firsthand.

The lyrics, which eloquently express the bittersweet feelings of a man saying goodbye and the emotions of the woman who receives it, are something anyone with experience in love can relate to.

This piece also served as the springboard for nine consecutive appearances at NHK’s Kōhaku Uta Gassen beginning in 1959, and it’s a must-listen not only for fans of mood kayō but for anyone interested in Showa-era popular music.