Enka Singer Popularity Ranking in Karaoke [2026]

Unrequited LoveHattori Hiroko71rank/position

[MV] Hiroko Hattori / Kurenai Jōwa (Full Ver.)

Hiroko Hattori’s classic “Kurenai Jōwa” is striking for its gently unfolding opening.

At first, you might find it sultry, but once the chorus begins, an unexpectedly grand and moving melody spreads out.

Because of this, the song calls for a wide range of expression, yet fortunately it contains very few complex elements.

Even the use of kobushi ornamentation is among the least in Hattori’s repertoire, so even those who struggle with enka should be able to sing it without trouble.

Consider adding it to your repertoire.

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The Last DrinkKimura Tetsuji72rank/position

Tetsuji Kimura “Last Drink” MUSIC VIDEO

A song by Tetsuji Kimura that brings a sweet, heartrending farewell vividly to life.

With a soda-and-barley drink before them, the lyrics capture the aching emotions of two people who have resolved to part.

Kimura’s powerful vocals convey both the sorrow and the beauty of goodbye, resonating deeply with listeners.

Released in February 2024 and winner of the 65th Japan Record Awards New Artist Award, this track fully showcases Kimura’s talent.

Written by his older brother, Ryuzo Kimura, it’s a wonderful piece that also reflects the brothers’ bond.

It’s a song we especially recommend to anyone feeling the fragility of love or the pain of parting.

king (shogi piece)Murata Hideo73rank/position

king (shogi piece)

A quintessential classic of the Showa era, this song powerfully portrays a man’s pride and poignant loneliness.

Using a shogi grandmaster as its motif, it movingly depicts a man who refuses to abandon his dreams despite a life of poverty, as well as his gratitude toward his beloved wife.

Released in November 1961, it became an instant smash after Hideo Murata performed it on that year’s NHK Kohaku Uta Gassen.

The following year, it was chosen as the theme song for a film of the same name, ultimately selling over three million copies.

Marked by its distinctive waltz (3/4) rhythm, the chorus is meant to be sung with powerful conviction.

It’s a perfect choice not only for shogi fans, but also for anyone striving toward their dreams or wishing to sing with heartfelt thanks to someone dear.

Yugiri PortMori Konomi74rank/position

Konomi Mori “Yugiri Port” Music Video

Set in a fog-shrouded port town, a heart-wrenching love song has been born.

It’s a deeply crafted piece released by Konomi Mori in July 2024.

Drawing on the unique vocal power she honed through folk music, she vividly conveys both the misty harbor scenery and the protagonist’s emotions.

The song is said to be inspired by Kojohama in Shiraoi, Hokkaido: lyrics penned by Akino Madoka, moved by the sight of a landscape wrapped in fog, paired with a poignant melody composed by Chiaki Oka.

Mori shares behind-the-scenes stories on her blog, and the release has been creating buzz among fans.

It’s the kind of song you’ll want to play when you’re thinking of someone dear, or to listen to alone on a quiet night.

I love Osaka.Tou Aki75rank/position

Aki Azuma “I Love Osaka” Music Video — Release Date: April 16, 2025

This song, released in April 2025 as Aki Toa’s major debut single, is a support anthem for the Osaka-Kansai Expo.

Its lyrics convey a straightforward love for the city of Osaka, discovered through the experience of falling in love.

The emotive vocals and warm sound are perfect for brightening up the mood at karaoke! And if everyone sings together, it might create a sense of unity and make the time even more fun.

Spring-anticipating drizzleMatsubara Nobue76rank/position

[MV Full Chorus] Nobue Matsubara “Harumachi Shigure” [Official]

This enka classic is a gentle song that waits for the warm arrival of spring.

It was released as a single in July 2022.

The melody perfectly complements the love-themed lyrics crafted by Kazu Tsubasa and others, leaving a strong impression.

The lyrics are easy to remember, and if you get the chance to sing it at karaoke, it will likely fill you with warmth.

It beautifully expresses the sense of comfort that comes after weathering life’s rough seas.

Recommended for those who, while listening to Nobue Matsubara’s expressive singing, want to feel the tender springtime of life.

Midnight ShowerKatsura Ginshuku77rank/position

Yinshū Katsura — Midnight Shower

Kayō Ginsuku, known for her alluring husky voice, sings the sublime melody of “Midnight Shower,” a stylish piece that feels less like mood enka and more like watching a polished French esprit drama.

If you want to express the coquettish, cute charm of a woman in front of him, this song is perfect.