Songs We Want to Listen to and Sing! Masterpieces and Popular Hits of Reiwa-era Enka

HearthstoneKawahara Shin’ichi

Kawahara Shinichi “Heartstone” MUSIC VIDEO

Shinichi Kawahara, who made the unusual career shift from guitarist-vocalist in a rock band to the world of enka, has released his first single with Nippon Crown in November 2025: “Heart Stone / Yume no Saikoro.” The work’s appeal lies in its true-story-based narrative, inspired by a real heart-shaped cobblestone in Yokohama’s Harbor View Park, recounting memories of a now-departed lover.

Sophisticated arrangements—where Latin-flavored rhythms intertwine with horns—create a port-town atmosphere.

It’s a song that resonates with the ache of moving forward while holding a deep longing for a lost love.

YukoYūji Matsuo

Yushi Matsuo “Yuko” MUSIC VIDEO

It feels like a sweet love story that seeps into the heart.

This song by Yushi Matsuo, who has built a firm place for himself in the enka world as a singer, was released in December 2024.

It carefully weaves the tale of a protagonist who stays by the side of a woman named Yuko and seeks to lead her toward a happy future.

Matsuo’s distinctive phrasing, featuring his signature rolled Rs, and his warm vocal tone further elevate the story.

It’s a track that lets you fully savor the appeal of enka that stands by life’s side—one you’ll want to listen to with someone special.

Journey of lingering attachmentGodai Shou

Godaisho “Journey of Lingering Affection” MUSIC VIDEO

Sho Godai is an enka singer from Fukui Prefecture.

After winning NHK’s Nodo Jiman, he made his debut in 2019 with the single “Mikazuki Lullaby,” showcasing formidable talent.

His greatest appeal lies in his expressive range—seamlessly shifting between spoken narration and singing—that calls to mind his revered idol, Hiroshi Itsuki.

His fourth release, Miren no Tabiji, arrived in September 2025.

This work is a classic travel-themed enka that portrays a lingering-hearted journey, wandering the northern provinces in pursuit of an unforgettable silhouette.

The melancholic scenes stretching from Kanazawa to Hakodate intertwine with Godai’s vibrato-rich vocals, leaving a deep impression on the listener.

If you enjoy enka with a strong sense of storytelling, be sure to check it out.

inner voiceFutami Souichi

Soichi Futami “Voice of the Heart” MUSIC VIDEO

A milestone 10th single by Soichi Futami, released in September 2025.

The composition is by Joji Hara—better known as Saburo Kitajima—the giant of the enka world.

It’s a classic gratitude song that feels like entrusting one’s spirit to the next generation, structured in three chapters that address Mother, Friend, and Father.

From memories of lullabies heard in childhood to heartfelt thanks for the important people met in life, the song weaves gratitude with care.

His “echoing mountain-voice,” honed through folk singing, and his skillful phrasing seem to breathe warm life into every word.

It’s a song you’ll want to hear when you wish to say “thank you” to someone precious.

The Northern CliffsYamauchi Keisuke

Keisuke Yamauchi “Cliffs of the North” Music Video

This work gives voice to a woman’s aching heart, as if the sea breeze were piercing her chest.

Released in February 2025 to commemorate Keisuke Yamauchi’s 25th anniversary since debut, it perfectly pairs his powerful vocals with a melody that conveys emotions with no place to go.

Set against the sheer cliffs of the north, it portrays lingering attachment, frustration, and a loss of hope for tomorrow.

It is a song that will surely stay close to the hearts of those bearing the pain of love.