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

Reiwa ElegyShimizu Setsuko

Setsuko Shimizu / Reiwa Elegy

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

[Official] Kohei Fukuda “Takumi” [Official Music Video Short ver.]

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.

Hazy MoonMochizuki Ruka

Ruka Mochizuki “Oborozuki (Hazy Moon)” MV

A captivating song that showcases singer-songwriter Ruka Mochizuki’s enchanting, dreamlike vocals.

The gentle melody tenderly embraces a woman’s delicate emotions, and the soundscape—evoking a hazy spring moonlit night—resonates deeply.

Released as a single in June 2024, it features a style that reflects Japan’s traditional beauty and a keen sense of the seasons.

With its calm, mellow atmosphere, it’s the kind of track you’ll want to listen to alone on a quiet night—perfect for those who wish to unwind.

You’ll surely be captivated by Mochizuki’s richly expressive singing, woven through her husky voice.

Yugiri PortMori Konomi

Konomi Mori “Yugiri Port” Music Video

Set in a fog-shrouded port town, this is a heartfelt song by Konomi Mori that poignantly portrays a bittersweet love.

Drawing on the distinctive vocal technique she honed through folk music, she vividly conveys both the misty harbor scenery and the protagonist’s emotions.

It’s said to be inspired by Kojohama in Shiraoi, Hokkaido: lyrics by Akino Madoka, who was moved by the fog-covered landscape, paired with a wistful melody by Chiaki Oka.

Released in July 2024, the piece has been the subject of behind-the-scenes stories on Mori’s blog and is generating excitement among fans.

It’s the kind of song you’ll want to play when remembering someone dear, or to listen to alone on a quiet night.

The Harbor of Lingering AffectionMori Shinichi

The Harbor of Lingering Affection

A bittersweet love song set in a wistful port town.

Shinichi Mori’s distinctive husky voice powerfully gives voice to a heart lost in the name of lingering regrets.

The vivid imagery—so striking you can almost see a woman on the pier, buffeted by the cold sea breeze as she waits for her lover—leaves a lasting impression.

Released in July 2024 as his 130th single, this gem reunites the same creative team behind the 2003 release “Ai no Kawa.” With lyrics that feel like a scene from a film, the song is sure to resonate with anyone struggling in love.

It’s a track brimming with mature allure, one you’ll want to listen to alone on a quiet night.