Keisuke Yamauchi Popular Songs Ranking [2026]

It’s a bit heartbreaking.Yamauchi Keisuke15rank/position

Chotto, Setsunai na

A killer tune that fully brings out Keisuke Yamauchi’s unique charm—distinct from that of an enka singer—evoking the feel of Showa-era kayōkyoku! Released in 2012 as the B-side to the single Namida Kurenai ka, Chotto, Setsunai na was also included on the Fan-Selected Best Album, underscoring its popularity.

As mentioned at the outset, this song isn’t enka but straight-up kayōkyoku, so even those who aren’t into hardcore enka should be able to enjoy it at karaoke.

With a relatively narrow range and a melody centered mostly in the mid register, it’s easy to sing—and it’s sure to get a great reaction even in front of people who don’t know Yamauchi’s music.

expand_lessRaise the rankingexpand_morelower

KOH-1

Report a problem

Jōshū Broken Straw HatYamauchi Keisuke16rank/position

Joshu Torn Straw Hat / Keisuke Yamauchi cover by Shin

With the mountains of Haruna and Akagi in view, this travel-infused song portrays a lone traveler walking along the Jōshū road as dead leaves dance in the wind.

Through Keisuke Yamauchi’s sharp, cutting vocals, the harshness of a life lived in concealment and the fervent passion kept deep in the heart are powerfully conveyed.

The narrative-like phrasing and lyrical melody overlap with the protagonist’s burdened melancholy, drawing you irresistibly into its story world.

The track is included on the EP “Sarase Fuyu no Arashi (Namida-ban),” released in June 2018.

Why not listen while envisioning the grandeur of Gunma’s natural landscape?

Winter-withered ViolaYamauchi Keisuke17rank/position

Keisuke Yamauchi “Withered Winter Viola” Music Video

With renowned lyricist Goro Matsui on board, Winter-Withered Viola was released in 2011 as the second song commemorating Keisuke Yamauchi’s 10th debut anniversary.

Richly infused with the flavor of Showa-era kayōkyoku, it’s a celebrated masterpiece praised as a new frontier for Yamauchi, who brilliantly conveys lyrics that depict—like a scene from a film—the figure of a man exuding a certain melancholy despite his selfishness.

Built in a pop-style structure known as “two-and-a-half,” it carries a grand atmosphere with refined strings that might seem challenging to sing, yet the melody itself is easy to remember, and anyone familiar with kayōkyoku should be able to manage it well.

For the highlight long notes, practice singing dynamically while being mindful of your breathing points so you don’t run out of breath.

expand_lessRaise the rankingexpand_morelower

KOH-1

Report a problem

Your sakeYamauchi Keisuke18rank/position

Keisuke Yamauchi “Your Sake” Music Video

“Kimi no Sake” is an early signature song released in 2004, the year Keisuke Yamauchi—who debuted as an enka singer while still in high school—turned 21.

With lyrics of just four lines per verse, it exudes the classic feel of mainstream enka.

Yet, even within a genre where singers often portray a variety of characters, including female roles, Yamauchi himself describes “Kimi no Sake” as a song that reflects his true, unembellished self.

It’s a piece that fully showcases Yamauchi’s appeal as a skilled enka vocalist who delivers each word with care and precision.

As a quintessential enka number, experienced enka singers will likely find it straightforward to perform, while those new to the genre may need a bit of practice.

Try singing it with attention to the contrast between the calm first half and the soaring, expansive chorus.

expand_lessRaise the rankingexpand_morelower

KOH-1

Report a problem

Dawn has rosy fingersYamauchi Keisuke19rank/position

Yoakeha Barairono Yubi

This piece beautifully sings of the fleeting memories of a fragile love.

It skillfully employs the expression “rosy-fingered,” which also appears in Greek mythology, to intertwine the beauty of dawn with ephemeral romance.

The singer’s emotionally rich performance pairs exquisitely with the bittersweet, beautiful melody, resonating deeply with listeners.

Included on a single released in February 2021, it reached No.

7 on the Oricon chart.

With a musicality that transcends the confines of enka, it has captured the hearts of not only longtime fans but also new listeners.

For a Yamauchi song, the key is relatively low and the melodic range isn’t too drastic, so beginners should definitely give it a try!

Soya Main LineYamauchi Keisuke20rank/position

Soya Honsen

A song set in the northern lands that gives voice to the pain and regret of heartbreak.

Keisuke Yamauchi’s clear vocals, paired with the scenes of the cold season, sink deep into the listener.

Included on a single released in May 2016, it has become a classic that continues to captivate enka fans.

The lyrics, which send thoughts to a past lover along the Soya Main Line, strike straight at the heart.

It’s also a popular karaoke choice and relatively approachable for those accustomed to singing enka.

Recommended for anyone who’s experienced heartbreak or wants to sing while picturing Hokkaido’s majestic nature.

Hymn to LoveYamauchi Keisuke21rank/position

Kiyoshi Hasegawa – Hymn to Love

Originally, this song was written by the French chanson singer Édith Piaf.

She composed it in mourning after her lover died in a plane crash.

There are many cover versions of this song both overseas and in Japan.

In Japan, the most famous is by Fubuki Kōji, but this time please enjoy the version by the current ‘Prince of Enka,’ Keisuke Yamauchi.