Popular Songs Ranking of Saburo Kitajima [2026]

fatherKitajima Saburō15rank/position

father

Saburo Kitajima is known as a heavyweight in the enka world and for having closed out NHK’s Kōhaku Uta Gassen many times.

His voice carries a profound weight, making it clear why he’s called a master.

This song, released as a single in 2002, is titled “Chichioya,” read as “Oyaji” (Dad).

Sung from a male perspective, it portrays a father’s presence and greatness, leaving you with the sense that no matter how hard you try, you can never surpass your father’s stature.

Rugged yet filled with love and tenderness, it’s a song that will make many listeners want to become that kind of father themselves.

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utatane

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A Man’s LifeKitajima Saburō16rank/position

A Man's Life

A heartfelt, powerful song that reexamines the joys and sorrows of life and celebrates living with sincerity.

It carefully weaves together a half-life spent overcoming hardships and trials while valuing duty and truth.

Released by Saburo Kitajima in January 2011, this work conveys the sentiments of his more than 50-year career in show business with a mature vocal performance that deeply resonates with listeners.

While honoring the traditional flavor of enka, the song features contemporary arrangements that give it a profoundly moving quality that sinks into the heart.

It is a gem of a masterpiece to listen to when you stand at a crossroads in life or want to savor your gratitude toward someone important.

Namida-bushiKitajima Saburō17rank/position

Tear Boat

A song set on the seas of Hokkaido that portrays the harsh lives and romances of fishermen.

Tetsurō Hoshino’s emotionally rich lyrics blend beautifully with Tōru Funamura’s wistful melody, and Saburō Kitajima’s powerful vocals resonate deeply with listeners.

Released in June 1962, it became a million-seller and won the New Artist Award at the 4th Japan Record Awards.

Long carried on as one of Kitajima’s signature songs, it is still loved by many.

Its lyrics, depicting the loneliness and farewells of men of the sea, overlap with the life experiences of those who have aged, evoking deep empathy.

It’s the perfect song for looking back on memories with someone dear.

A perfect day for cosmos flowersKitajima Saburō18rank/position

Saburō Kitajima "Cosmos Biyori" ♪ cover by Satoshi Matsutake (Kiyoshi Matsu)

Saburō Kitajima is known throughout Japan as a leading figure in the enka world.

His song “Cosmos Biyori” was released as a single in 2008.

The song is written from the perspective of a father addressing his daughter, who will be getting married tomorrow and leaving home.

A father’s feelings as he sends off his daughter are surely immeasurable, but in this song they are conveyed very straightforwardly: while imparting lessons about life, he reminisces about happy memories with his daughter and reflects on the days when she was young.

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utatane

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Soran JingiKitajima Saburō19rank/position

Soran Jingi

Speaking of Saburo Kitajima, his vocals are known more for their rough, powerful quality than for delicacy.

His song “Soran Jingi,” however, is unusual among his works in that it places greater emphasis on a delicate vocal approach.

There are no intense shouts; instead, the song’s expression is shaped throughout by dynamics and kobushi (ornamental turns).

Since it doesn’t demand fundamental vocal strength as much, it relies mainly on advanced techniques—such as the hiccup method frequently used in kobushi, where the voice is flipped—making it an especially singable piece for those confident in fine, technical control.

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Ryo

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Woman of IyoKitajima Saburō20rank/position

Woman of Iyo

Saburo Kitajima also has many local-themed songs, and while the standard tends to be tragic love or journeys in search of something, this one is what you’d call a happy ending.

It’s a song where you can catch glimpses of manliness alongside sights from Ehime throughout.

The lyrics mention the Ishite River, which might be unfamiliar unless you’re local.

It’s a Class A river that runs through Matsuyama City in Ehime Prefecture, with the Ishite River Dam upstream—details that really enhance the local-song feel.

Woman of IseKitajima Saburō21rank/position

Ise Woman (Saburo Kitajima) cover by Ichiro Minato ICHIRO MINATO

Unusually for a song by Saburo Kitajima, it includes a long spoken monologue.

It’s a love song that’s a complete departure from his typically lively enka style.

The Meoto Iwa (Wedded Rocks) at Futaminoura in Ise City, Mie Prefecture, are bound with a sacred shimenawa rope, and the view from the torii gate on the beach in front is spectacular.

The large rock before the torii resembles a whale, and it’s said to offer blessings for maritime safety and matchmaking.

Perhaps those sentiments are reflected in the song.