Songs with titles starting with 'O' [Great for karaoke and shiritori!]
Songs with titles starting with “O” often feature unique names—like those using characters meaning “dance” or “gold,” as well as Osaka-themed songs.
They also tend to be great for getting everyone fired up when singing! I can’t think of many off the top of my head, so I want to look some up…
This is a list that might come in handy at such times: songs with titles that start with “O.” Use it when you’re wondering, “What songs start with ‘O’?” and also as a prompt for shiritori or when choosing tracks at karaoke.
- Vocaloid songs that start with 'O'
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- A compilation of Vocaloid songs with titles that start with 'wo' (を)
- Songs by Yoshimi Tendo, the songstress born in Osaka, that are easy to sing
- Songs with titles starting with “No” (Perfect for karaoke and shiritori!)
- Songs with titles that start with a number. Useful for karaoke or playlist selection.
- [If You Can Sing These, You're Amazing!] Cool Karaoke Songs for Women
- Songs with titles that start with 'de'. Perfect as hints for karaoke or shiritori!
Songs with Titles Starting with “O” [Great for Karaoke & Shiritori!] (461–470)
Woman’s Love SongHattori Hiroko
Hiroko Hattori has many great songs, but among them, this piece “Onna no Jouka” is renowned as an especially heartrending masterpiece.
In terms of melody, it’s an orthodox enka with a wistful atmosphere, but the vocal line is somewhat unusual, featuring pronounced rises and falls in pitch.
While the tempo itself is slow—so matching pitch isn’t necessarily difficult—the song has a wide vocal range and dramatic dynamics, making it a piece that demands expressive power more than pure technique.
Consider adding it to your repertoire.
Ogura Koi GoyomiHattori Hiroko
The classic “Ogura Koi Goyomi” is memorable for its passionate vocal phrasing.
True to Hiroko Hattori’s style, this piece is an orthodox enka song with frequent kobushi (melodic turns).
As a result, it carries a certain level of difficulty, but it doesn’t include sections with four- or five-note scale shifts like those found in Tsugaru folk songs.
If you’re comfortable with standard kobushi, you should be able to sing it without issue.
Note that at the beginning of the chorus there’s a section where you apply kobushi while staying in falsetto, so pay special attention there.
Consider adding it to your repertoire.
Hazy MoonMochizuki Ruka
A masterpiece of enka by Ruka Mochizuki that portrays a fleeting, heartrending romance between adults.
Released in June 2024, this song exquisitely matches emotionally rich lyrics by Koyomi Asa with a melody by Ryuzo Kimura that evokes the beauty of traditional Japan.
Mochizuki’s lyrical vocals vividly express the complex emotions of a woman who has resolved to part ways yet cannot fully let go, striking a deep chord with listeners.
The music video was filmed at the “Maboroshi Museum” in Ito City, Shizuoka Prefecture, creating a fantastical worldview.
It’s a must-listen not only for enka fans but also for anyone who can relate to mature love.
Vocally, it’s a challenging piece that demands a wide range and delicate expressiveness, but it’s well worth attempting.
A Man’s FistKimura Tetsuji
Teiji Kimura, who was born and raised in an enka family, made his debut as an enka singer in November 2022.
With his father being Ichirō Toba and his uncle Yutaka Yamakawa—both giants in the enka world—Kimura has drawn attention for a powerful singing voice that reflects his lineage.
His debut song, Nidaime (Second Generation), was written and composed by his older brother, Ryūzō Kimura, making it a work that conveys strong family ties.
In December 2023, he won the New Artist Award at the 65th Japan Record Awards, raising expectations for him as a rising star in the enka scene.
His voice, praised as a “hard-hitting, iron voice,” combines strength with delicacy and has gained popularity among younger listeners.
He’s also known for his hobby of weight training, making him a figure who challenges the conventional image of enka singers.
Even those who weren’t interested in enka may find themselves drawn to Kimura’s appeal.
dancerMurashita Kōzō
This signature song by Kozo Murashita, with lyrics that gracefully capture youthful naivety and aching first love, strikes straight to the heart—a work that deftly weaves in delicate emotional nuances.
Released in August 1983, it sold around 100,000 copies and reached No.
24 on the Oricon weekly chart.
It’s recommended for those who want to resonate with the bittersweetness and fragility of love, or savor a deeply lyrical track that lingers in the soul.
king (shogi piece)Murata Hideo
Mr.
Hideo Murata, known as a giant in the enka world, was discovered by Masao Koga and made his debut as a singer in 1958 with “Muhomatsu no Issho,” though it initially failed to attract much attention.
However, his November 1961 release “Osho” became the first postwar million-seller, catapulting him to stardom.
The following year, he received the Special Award at the 4th Japan Record Awards, firmly establishing his status as a singer.
With his powerful voice and manly presence, Murata captivated many fans and, in the late 1960s, appeared in numerous Toei yakuza films.
He excelled not only as a singer but also as an actor, showcasing his multifaceted talent.
He also made many appearances on the Kōhaku Uta Gassen, truly earning the title of “the face of New Year’s Eve.”
Woman’s DepartureMatsubara Nobue
Nobue Matsubara, a native of Fukuoka Prefecture, is an enka singer who made her debut in 1977 with the single “Minato-machi Blues.” In the 1980s, she shot to fame with “Harumachi Shigure,” winning the hearts of many fans.
Specializing in enka and kayōkyoku, she has produced numerous songs that resonate with listeners through emotive lyrics and melodies.
She has received many awards, including the Japan Kayō Awards and the Enka Awards, cementing her status in the enka world.
Matsubara’s singing continues to captivate many with its profound vocal ability and expressiveness.
Her concerts and live shows are notable for a style that unites performers and audience in shared emotion.
She is recommended not only for enka enthusiasts but also for anyone who enjoys moving vocals and life-affirming musical dramas.