![[Mysterious Enka] A Collection of Easy-to-Sing Songs by Midori Oka [2026]](https://i.ytimg.com/vi_webp/Ph5Vt8uIUak/maxresdefault.webp)
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!
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- [Queen of Enka] A Collection of Easy-to-Sing Songs by Sayuri Ishikawa [2026]
- [For Women] Masterpiece Enka Songs with a High Degree of Difficulty
- [2026] Summary of Enka Singers from Aomori
- [For Beginners] Recommended Enka Classics for Karaoke — Women Singers Edition
- Enka songs that are easy for men to sing: a roundup of tracks to try at karaoke
- [Enka] Songs That Are Easy to Sing Even for the Tone-Deaf [Male Singer Edition]
[Mysterious Enka] A Collection of Easy-to-Sing Songs by Midori Oka [2026] (1–10)
Melody for TomorrowOka Midori
Tomorrow’s Melody is a pop ballad that steps beyond the realm of enka and kayōkyoku.
Released in 2021, it became a landmark song that opened a new chapter for Midori Oka.
Composed by Minoru Komorita (credited as “Komorita Minoru”), who has crafted many classics including SMAP’s major hits like Dynamite and Lion Heart, its poignant yet powerful melody will feel familiar to those who often sing J-pop at karaoke.
Among Oka’s songs, this one has a relatively narrow vocal range and doesn’t feature drastic melodic leaps, so once you learn the tune, it should be easy to sing.
After that, try to focus on expressing the emotional nuances—just like Oka does!
Okesa migratory birdOka Midori
Back in 2005, anyone who saw Midori Oka performing classic enka flawlessly while wearing a mini-skirt and a midriff-baring outfit must have been surprised—and those who only know her current image would be even more shocked.
Her song “Okesa Wataridori” was her memorable debut as an enka singer, and it drew attention not only for her background as a former idol but also for the fashion mentioned above.
Despite the contrast with her appearance, the song itself has the charm of good old-fashioned enka, featuring enka-style techniques and phrasing throughout.
It opens with a high note at the start of the first verse, and while there’s a fair amount of pitch movement, the overall melody is straightforward and easy to remember.
Be sure to practice the long high notes leading up to the chorus so you don’t run out of breath!
Green Que Sera SeraOka Midori
It’s a fun, upbeat Reiwa-era rhythm kayō masterpiece that makes any Japanese person want to clap along and start dancing! “Midori no Que Sera Sera” is a song released by Midori Oka in 2021, and as the title suggests, you can sing it comfortably with a carefree “que sera sera—whatever will be, will be” feeling.
The instantly catchy chorus sticks after one listen, and if everyone in your karaoke group sings it together, it’ll definitely liven up the room.
The signature enka vocal flourishes—like heavy kobushi and wide vibrato—are kept modest, and the more natural delivery makes it approachable even for those who feel unsure about singing traditional enka.
First and foremost, have fun and sing along to the cheerful rhythm!
Toridori Yumemidori feat. DJ KOOOka Midori
The lead track Toridori Yumemidori from Midori Oka’s 20th anniversary album JOURNEY is a unique song—an upbeat, festival-style kayō techno number featuring none other than DJ KOO.
It’s interesting how the up-tempo dance beat meshes surprisingly well with the abundant traditional Japanese flavors like shamisen and shinobue.
The vocals are quite rapid-fire, but once you memorize the lyrics, it’s the kind of song you can power through by riding the rhythm—perfect for karaoke.
Don’t overthink it; if possible, sing it with a partner playing DJ KOO’s role—you’re sure to have a great time!
Evening Horn of SadoOka Midori
For Midori Oka, “Sado no Yubue” is an epoch-making song in her career, the one that secured her first appearance on the NHK Kouhaku Uta Gassen, and a signature piece representing her so-called “mysterious enka” style.
Her intensely gripping vocal delivery conveys a piercing yearning while also exuding a distinctly enigmatic aura—truly striking, isn’t it? As one of her hallmark songs, it’s hugely popular in karaoke, but of course, singing it as masterfully as Oka-san does is no easy feat.
That said, the beautiful melody isn’t overly complex, so try surrendering yourself to the drama of the song as you sing.
In the chorus, be especially mindful of your breathing for the high notes and long tones, and focus on repeatedly practicing the sections that climb back up from the low range to the high notes.
Blizzard of Blossoms of a WomanOka Midori
This is a Reiwa-era life-encouragement song by Midori Oka, renowned for her mysterious enka style, showcasing powerful kindness and brightness! “Onna no Hana Fubuki” is the B-side to “Kami no Tsuru,” released in February 2019, and it’s a masterpiece that lifts your spirits when you’re feeling down.
It’s perfect for wrapping up a karaoke session, as well as for farewell parties or New Year’s gatherings.
It’s classic, straight-down-the-middle enka, so those accustomed to the genre should be able to sing it smoothly.
Overall, the pitch is high and the range is wide, so if you’re new to enka, try breaking it into parts—A melody, B melody, and chorus—and focus your practice on the sections you find most challenging.
Tear SongOka Midori
This is a dramatic single by Midori Oka, positioned as her flagship release for 2024.
The production sits between kayōkyoku and enka, and the song’s structure is striking: it moves from a restrained yet somehow wistful A-melody to a chorus that adopts a 6/8 rhythm, highlighting a dynamic melody—resulting in a wonderfully dramatic development.
The lyrics vividly depict a woman living in the city while carrying a sense of loneliness, which is quite impactful; many listeners will likely want to add this song to their karaoke repertoire.
Recreating the song’s dramatic arc isn’t easy, but if you often sing J-pop and aren’t fully accustomed to classic enka vocal technique, this might actually be a comfortable entry point.
Since the vocal range is wide, I recommend practicing not only your high notes but also ensuring you can produce solid low notes.