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An enka singer who blossomed on the fourth debut! Natsuko Godai’s popular song ranking

Although she debuted under the names Hiromi Hoshi, Yuki Kagawa, and Terumi Nakagawa without finding a hit, enka singer Natsuko Godai found the spotlight after her fourth stage name change.

Her debut single achieved an unprecedented double win in the enka world, earning both the Best New Artist Award at the 21st Japan Cable Awards and the Best New Artist Award at the 21st All Japan Cable Broadcasting Awards.

This time, we’ll be introducing a ranking of Natsuko Godai’s popular songs.

Even younger listeners who aren’t very familiar with enka might enjoy being captivated by the vocals of this veteran star.

An enka singer who blossomed on her fourth debut! Natsuko Godai’s most popular songs ranking (1–10)

Shanshan PeonyGodai Natsuko8rank/position

Natsuko Godai “Shanshan Peony” Music Video
Shanshan PeonyGodai Natsuko

This is a song that, beneath its dignified beauty, conveys a strong will not to be merely something on display.

Sung by Natsuko Godai, it will be released in July 2025.

It’s a modern Japanese kayō tune where the crisp sounds of koto and tsuzumi resonate pleasantly, beautifully matching a traditional worldview with a rhythmic style.

The protagonist’s spirit seems to come through in every word, and as you listen, you can’t help but straighten your back.

It’s the kind of music that gives you a push when you want to stay true to yourself.

drinking aloneGodai Natsuko9rank/position

Natsuko Godai “Hitori-zake” Music Video (1 chorus)
drinking aloneGodai Natsuko

Amid the alluring, sensual elegance that exudes feminine charm, Natsuko Godai’s voice—harboring quiet strength—resonates deeply in this song.

It portrays a woman drinking alone, yet what lies beneath is surely more than mere loneliness.

You can picture the protagonist standing with dignity as she faces her solitude.

Released in January 1994, the single became a long-selling hit with over 300,000 copies sold and won the Cable Broadcast Grand Prize.

The track was also included in the video collection “Enka no Hanamichi: Natsuko Godai” and was widely loved through popular music programs of the time.

Some listeners may find their hearts stirred as they see their own experiences reflected in the strength that shines through the sadness.

Shibuya Centennial Grand DanceGodai Natsuko10rank/position

Natsuko Godai 'Shibuya Centennial Sō Odori' Music Video
Shibuya Centennial Grand DanceGodai Natsuko

BEGIN, the popular band from Okinawa, created a song filled with their love for Shibuya, and it’s been covered by Natsuko Godai, a leading figure in the enka world.

It’s a fresh, new-style track celebrating Shibuya’s growth and history, characterized by a Bon Odori-inspired melody and beats that evoke Eisa.

Released as a single on October 30, 2024, it also includes REIWA mixes of “Oedo Choichoi-bushi” and “Natsuko Ondo.” The jacket features iconic Shibuya landmarks, visually expressing a deep affection for the area.

It’s the perfect song for listeners of all ages who want to rediscover Shibuya’s charm.

An enka singer who blossomed on her fourth debut! Natsuko Godai’s most popular songs ranking (11–20)

cornflowerGodai Natsuko11rank/position

Natsuko Godai “Cornflower (Yagurumaso)” Music Video (1 chorus)
cornflowerGodai Natsuko

Natsuko Godai continues to captivate many hearts with her delicately expressive vocals.

Among her songs, this heartbreak ballad is particularly moving.

In this piece, she sings of hidden feelings entrusted to purple flowers, painting a bittersweet love story.

Released in June 2015, it became her 27th single.

The song’s structure—starting quietly and gradually building in emotion—is also appealing, making it an easy choice for karaoke.

Highly recommended for those who want to feel both the ache of love and a sense of hope for the future.