Ichiro Toba’s Most Popular Songs Ranking [2026]

Hyuga-nada (Hyuga Sea)Toba Ichirō15rank/position

Hyuga-nada / Ichiro Toba cover by Keizo

Because the Kuroshio Current flows through the Pacific waters off the eastern coast of Miyazaki Prefecture, the Hyuga-nada is ideal for fishing and, as mentioned in the lyrics, serves as a fishing ground for tuna and bonito.

While the song powerfully portrays rugged, manly fishermen, it also conveys the loneliness of their work—thinking of their mothers and the lovers waiting for them back home as they head out to sea.

Showa-era manToba Ichirō16rank/position

Ichiro Toba “Showa no Otoko” MUSIC VIDEO

Enka singer Ichiro Toba, who has long sung of the spirit of “men of the sea.” As its title suggests, “Showa no Otoko” is a classic enka number that portrays the way of life of a man who ran straight through the Showa era.

The protagonist, clumsy yet unwavering in his convictions and walking through life with sincerity, is brought to life by Toba’s powerful yet warm vocals.

Toba himself has said he poured his strong feelings for his father, who survived the Showa era, into the song—and you can feel that intensity resonating in his voice.

Perfect for those who want to hear a song about a man with an unshakable backbone, or when you want to touch the heart of good old Japan.

ComradeToba Ichirō17rank/position

Comrade

This is a work that passionately sings of bonds between men.

Released in February 2025, it features the distinctive vocal ornamentation unique to enka throughout.

Toba’s singing powerfully conveys the feelings of men who have weathered life’s rough seas, which is particularly striking.

You can sense both a humble acceptance of one’s place and a proud appreciation of ties with friends.

It’s a song you’ll want to listen to in moments when you want to savor life together with your comrades.

Kurushima StraitToba Ichirō18rank/position

Kurushima Strait ~ Osaka Bay.wmv

Located off the coast of Imabari City in Ehime Prefecture, the Kurushima Strait has long been known as one of the most treacherous parts of the sea—first Kurushima, second Naruto, and third Kanmon.

This song likens its swift currents to a man’s way of life.

Although Raymund Matsuya also has a song with the same title, it is a completely different piece.

Ama divers of TobaToba Ichirō19rank/position

Ichirō Toba “Toba no Ama” MUSIC VIDEO

A song distinguished by a melody that resonates with the heartstrings and gentle lyrics.

Its poignant yet powerful words portray the life of an ama diver and the bonds of family, permeating through with Ichiro Toba’s rich, resonant voice.

Released in May 2024, this work has become one of the most personally meaningful songs in his long career.

Filled with love for his hometown of Toba, it’s perfect for those who feel nostalgic for their roots or cherish family ties.

It’s a song with a quiet, lingering savor—one that makes you want to relax with a drink as you breathe in the scent of the sea.

two peopleIchirō Toba, Yuri Harada20rank/position

Ichiro Toba & Yuri Harada “Futari” Music Video

The duet song Futari by Ichiro Toba and Yuri Harada is a moving piece that portrays the strong bond of couples and lovers who overcome trials together.

The work is memorable for its phrases that convey a sense of complete unity when the two are together, and the seasoned vocals of both singers powerfully express the strength to find hope in the darkness and face hardships side by side.

It’s a perfect choice for karaoke duets that let you feel the bond between two people.

When you look back on the difficulties you’ve overcome with the one you love, be sure to listen to Futari.

Michinoku ShigureToba Ichirō / Murakami Sachiko21rank/position

Ichiro Toba & Sachiko Murakami - Michinoku Shigure (HP Video)

This is an enka duet song that portrays the heartrending love between a man and a woman against the richly atmospheric scenery of the Tohoku region.

Released in September 1985, the piece beautifully blends Mr.

Ichiro Toba’s powerful vocals with Ms.

Sachiko Murakami’s delicate voice, expressing with deep emotion the wavering feelings of the couple as the seasons shift from autumn to winter.

In the chorus, their voices overlap exquisitely, resonating deeply with listeners.

Why not try singing it together with someone special at karaoke or in a snack bar?