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.
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An enka singer who blossomed on her fourth debut! Natsuko Godai’s most popular songs ranking (1–10)
Enduring RainGodai Natsuko1rank/position
Natsuko Godai’s “Shinobu Ame” is one of the signature songs of her music career.
Released on May 21, 1990, the track left a significant mark on Japan’s enka scene.
It peaked at No.
12 on the weekly Oricon chart and became a long-running hit, staying on the charts for a total of 52 weeks and selling 421,000 copies.
It also received numerous awards, including the Broadcast Music Award at the 21st Japan Kayō Awards.
The song’s appeal lies in its delicate, rain-themed lyrics and Godai’s emotionally rich vocals.
Comparing deep feelings for a lover to falling rain, the lyrics resonate with many listeners, delivering a quiet yet powerful message.
As one of Natsuko Godai’s representative works, it’s a must-listen not only for enka fans but also for those who don’t usually listen to enka.
full moonGodai Natsuko2rank/position
The hours slip from dusk into night.
This is an enka song that expresses the feelings of a woman who keeps waiting for her beloved who never comes.
It’s sung by Natsuko Godai, a singer also known for songs like “Shinobu Ame.” Released in 2000 as her 16th single, it was also an original song produced for the music segment of NHK’s variety show “Comedy Oedo de Gozaru.” Bathed in moonlight, the protagonist can do nothing but wait—the image rises vividly to mind and tightens the chest.
Returning RiverGodai Natsuko3rank/position
The debut song “Modorigawa” from Natsuko Godai’s 1987 re-debut under this name.
Through steady promotional efforts, the track became a major hit.
It portrays the painful reality that, when the time for parting comes to two people caught up in a dangerous love, no matter how hard they try, it’s difficult to go on living together.
Godai’s deeply emotive vocals further accentuate the longing and lingering regrets depicted in the lyrics.
Please give it a listen—a tragic love story that embodies the very essence of enka: wanting to be together, yet being unable to be.
snowflowerGodai Natsuko4rank/position
Set against the snowy Echizen Cape, this song portrays a snowflower blooming with dignity amid harsh nature.
The lyrics, expressing gratitude to a mother and a vow to one’s hometown, truly resonate.
Natsuko Godai’s emotionally rich voice deepens the song’s world.
Released in April 1992, it struck a chord with many people.
It gives you the courage to face forward even in tough circumstances.
Why not listen to it with older adults and talk about life and family? Warm memories may come flooding back.
Naruto StraitGodai Natsuko5rank/position
Released in 1996 and a hit, Naruto Kaikyō is a song commemorating Natsuko Godai’s 10th anniversary since her debut, and it’s also known as a classic for which song monuments were later erected in both Naruto City, Tokushima, and Minamiawaji City, Hyogo.
The lyrics brilliantly portray the psychology of poignant love and the imagery of the Naruto Strait that seems to envelop human emotions, and of course, Godai’s richly expressive vocal performance is nothing short of outstanding.
It’s also popular at karaoke, but the vocal range is extremely wide; the high notes in the chorus that use falsetto will be a challenge even for those who can usually hit higher pitches.
The melody in the A section also swings dramatically between high and low notes, so overall it’s a song that demands considerable vocal skill.
Try to sing each note carefully while keeping in mind the song’s majestic atmosphere.
Dream FireworksGodai Natsuko6rank/position
“Yume Hanabi” is a track included on the album “Natsuko Godai: Complete Collection 2016.” It’s a love song that likens a woman’s feelings to fireworks.
The man she fell for at first sight seems like the type who would bring hardship if they were together, but she doesn’t mind—her single-hearted devotion comes through in the lyrics.
The beauty of fireworks bursting in the sky feels like it mirrors the splendor of love, and listening to this song makes you think love is wonderful.
Why not enjoy this song while watching summer fireworks?
Hourglass of LifeGodai Natsuko7rank/position
An emotionally moving enka number that likens the transience and beauty of life to an hourglass.
Through the changing of the four seasons, it conveys a message about cherishing each irreplaceable moment.
Released in May 2024, this work focuses on the theme of “life,” a motif that symbolizes Natsuko Godai’s long career.
Lyrics by Mami Takubo, music by Tetsuji Hayashi.
It’s a song you’ll want to listen to when you reach a turning point in life or feel like reflecting on it.
Godai’s richly expressive voice will resonate deeply in the hearts of listeners.