Songs We Want to Listen to and Sing! Masterpieces and Popular Hits of Reiwa-era Enka
In this article, we’ll introduce standout enka songs delivered in the Reiwa era—recommended not only for devoted enka fans but for music lovers of all kinds.
We’ve compared various rankings to bring you not only the most popular tracks but also essential gems you should know.
From classic, traditional enka to fresh, new-wave enka that incorporates innovative styles, you’ll find plenty to enjoy across a wide range of appeals.
If you’re interested in Reiwa-era enka—from famous veteran singers to noteworthy up-and-coming artists—this is a must-check!
We hope this article gives you a chance to discover and connect with enka, even just a little.
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[Want to Listen, Want to Sing!] Masterpieces and Popular Songs of Reiwa Enka (21–30)
gokuraku tonboHattori Hiroko
A new single celebrating Hiroko Hattori’s 35th anniversary debut has arrived! Released in November 2024, the song is characterized by a fantastical and moving atmosphere.
Lyrics by Ayumi Tomori and composition by Satoshi Hibara highlight Hattori’s warm, expressive vocals, which elevate the track’s appeal.
It’s a piece that makes you feel dreams and hopes, as if guiding you from everyday life into an ideal world.
Blending enka and pop, the work preserves Hattori’s signature style while exploring a fresh musical approach.
Her deeply resonant voice enriches the song’s theme even further, making a lasting impression on listeners.
Highly recommended for karaoke fans, too!
In the Wandering TownHimuro Kazuya
A gem of a number from November 2024 by Kazuya Himuro that conveys the full allure of mood kayō.
Miwa Ito’s lyrics, tracing the sweetly heartrending feelings of a man, and Himuro’s deeply emotive delivery resonate with the heart.
The melancholy melody, hinting at the ending of a love story, and the plaintive vocals singing of lingering feelings for a former lover will leave a deep impression on listeners.
Following Himuro’s signature songs “Acacia Monogatari” and “Acacia Elegy,” this work is poised to become a new milestone in mood kayō.
It’s a recommended track for those wishing to heal the pain of heartbreak or look back on memories with someone dear.
[Want to Listen, Want to Sing!] Masterpieces and Popular Songs of Reiwa Enka (31–40)
Crimson TearsTsubuki Miyu
A heartrending song that portrays the pain of heartbreak and lingering attachment.
Miyu Tsubuki’s powerful yet delicate vocals resonate deeply with listeners.
The lyrics depict the complex emotions of a woman wavering between love for her partner and despair.
The imagery of overlapping tears and crimson lipstick is striking, vividly expressing the universal sorrow of love.
Released as a single in November 2024, this work is recommended for those who have lost someone precious or who harbor a bittersweet longing.
Why not let Miyu Tsubuki’s voice soothe you as you face the feelings deep within your heart?
Reiwa ElegyShimizu Setsuko
A wistful enka that portrays people living earnestly resounds with Setsuko Shimizu’s powerful voice.
The lyrics, which carefully depict the feelings of those working in the city—love for family, anxieties about the future, and nostalgia for one’s hometown—are sure to touch everyone’s heart.
Released in November 2023, this work inherits the spirit of the Showa-era classic “Sanya Blues,” offering encouragement to people living in the Reiwa era.
Twilight factories, red lanterns in back alleys, rainy night streets—the finely drawn scenes make this a remarkable song.
It’s a track you’ll want to listen to when you’re weary of the city’s clamor, when you’re thinking of home, or when you need strength for tomorrow.
TakumiFukuda Kouhei
This is an enka song portraying a man who carves out his path through sweat and effort.
Set for release by Kohei Fukuda in January 2025, with lyrics by Takashi Manjo and composition by Chiaki Oka.
It’s a passionate work distinguished by its rokyoku-style melodic turns.
The song powerfully sings of the way of life of a Japanese man who advances steadily, step by step, and its robust vocals are sure to move you.
If you’re facing obstacles in work or life, this is a track you should definitely hear.
It will give you the courage to face forward.
To my belovedSaijō Osamu
This is a kayōkyoku (Japanese popular song) that conveys gratitude with warmth.
It is Osamu Saijō’s debut work, released in February 2025 by Free Board Records.
Its gentle, narrative melody carries heartfelt thanks to his grandmother.
This is a song to listen to when you stand at a crossroads in life or want to reflect on memories with someone dear.
It’s a track best enjoyed while thinking of the gratitude you feel for the family and loved ones who have supported you.
Love Song of the Calmseto yuuki
Set on the Seto Inland Sea, a bittersweet love ballad was released in March 2024.
Seto Yuki’s single includes two tracks: one that pens feelings for a former lover, and another that is bright and uplifting.
Amid the calm, glassy seascape, the lament for lost love seeps into the heart.
Through vivid depictions of nature and shifting emotions, this is a song that resonates deeply with listeners.
The timbre of the koto and the sight of seabirds seem to evoke the sorrow of parting and lingering longing.
The image of standing alone in a port town conveys a heartfelt earnestness.
It’s a recommended track for times when you want to heal the pain of heartbreak or recall someone dear.