[Mysterious Enka] A Collection of Easy-to-Sing Songs by Midori Oka [2026]

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.

Although she showed talent in the field of folk music from a young age, Midori Oka made her debut as an idol in her teens, then—after a brief period of activity—made the unusual shift to becoming an enka singer.

It took time for her to truly break through, but a series of songs known as the “Mysterious Enka Trilogy,” beginning with Kiri no Kawa (composed by Tetsuya Gen) released in 2016, became hits, and she appeared on Kōhaku the following year.

In recent years, she has showcased her overwhelming vocal ability on the popular show Chidori no Oni Renchan, and her wide-ranging activities have earned her attention among younger generations as well.

This article compiles relatively easy, approachable songs for those who want to try singing Oka’s tracks at karaoke.

Enka beginners are welcome to take a look!

[Mysterious Enka] A Collection of Easy-to-Sing Songs by Midori Oka [2026] (11–20)

Misty RiverOka Midori

Misty River

Misty RiverOka Midori

This is the first entry in the so-called “mysterious enka” direction and a pivotal song in Midori Oka’s career: Kiri no Kawa (River of Mist).

It became the hit that sparked Oka’s breakthrough after nearly a decade in the industry at the time of its release, and it remains one of her signature songs—hugely popular in karaoke.

Singing it with the same mastery as Oka, who powerfully conveys a woman’s hidden passions, is extremely challenging.

But if you listen closely, you’ll notice the wistful, beautiful melody is easy to remember, and—if you don’t worry about fine technique—surprisingly singable.

Of course, covering the wide vocal range from low to high notes is tough, but keep practicing little by little and you’ll get used to it.

Keep at it!

Raise the rankinglower

Report a problem

In conclusion

While playing a missionary-like role in conveying the spirit of enka to younger generations and showcasing a borderless career that transcends genres, Midori Oka’s songs are also extremely popular for karaoke, so you’ll definitely want to give them a try.

The songs introduced here are relatively easy even for enka beginners, so I recommend first listening closely to Oka’s performances, then singing them out powerfully!