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Songs with titles that start with “Sa”: a roundup you can use for shiritori or karaoke

What songs come to mind with titles that start with “Sa”? In this article, we’ll introduce songs whose titles begin with “Sa,” which are handy for games like song-title shiritori or karaoke with letter restrictions.

When you think of “sa,” many people picture sakura (cherry blossoms) that bloom beautifully in spring—and along with that, there are countless songs that have “sakura” in their titles.

Starting with the power word “sakura,” we’ve gathered a variety of songs whose titles begin with “sa.” Be sure to check them out and use them in different situations!

Songs whose titles start with “Sa.” A roundup useful for shiritori and karaoke (481–490)

Let’s say farewell to tearsMorita Kensaku

Kensaku Morita, “Let’s Say Goodbye to Tears,” 1973
Let's say farewell to tearsMorita Kensaku

Known for Kensaku Morita’s heartfelt vocals, this song is cherished as a classic that touches the heart.

The lyrics, depicting the pains of youth, farewells, and the resolve to move forward, are particularly striking.

I think it’s a very warm song that gives you the courage to face life’s hardships.

It was released in February 1971 and used as the theme song for the TV drama “I Am a Man!” Its connection with the drama’s storyline moved many people.

It especially resonates when heard at graduation ceremonies or moments of parting.

It’s a song that, even while holding back tears, lets you feel the strength to never lose hope for the future.

Sanriku ElegyMizumori Kaori

Kaori Mizumori “Sanriku Elegy” MV (Released January 23, 2024) [Official]
Sanriku ElegyMizumori Kaori

When you think of Kaori Mizumori, her warm enka style is memorable, but she also has some powerful songs.

Among them, I especially recommend “Sanriku Banka.” The vocal range is a bit wide and there are many strong sections, but there aren’t any shout-like, raspy power vocals, so anyone with a reasonable range should be able to sing it without issue.

It also features relatively few kobushi (melismatic enka ornamentation), so consider adding it to your repertoire.

Blossom RomanticaHikawa Kiyoshi

Kiyoshi Hikawa / Blooming Romantica [Official]
Blossom RomanticaHikawa Kiyoshi

Kiyoshi Hikawa’s classic “Saite Romantica.” This piece weaves Latin sounds—most notably flamenco—throughout the arrangement.

While flamenco and enka share many similarities in terms of vocal ornamentation (kobushi), the song doesn’t lean into that aspect, so you won’t hear the intricate pitch bends that kobushi requires.

If anything, the vocal line is closer to pop or kayōkyoku.

The tempo isn’t too fast, and there are no overly long sustained notes, making it a song that can be sung comfortably even without advanced vocal technique.

The Last LoverIkeda Kazuo

Kazuo Ikeda is one of Niigata Prefecture’s proud enka singers.

A powerhouse performer, he ran a metalworking factory in his hometown of Niigata for many years while racking up numerous wins at karaoke competitions.

In 2011, he closed the factory and made his professional debut at the age of 60.

Since then, his richly expressive voice has captivated many.

In 2014, he made his major-label debut with Saigo no Koibito on Teichiku and appeared on NHK’s Kayou Concert for the first time.

Featuring danceable sounds themed around love between men and women, the song became a nationwide hit.

With songs like Niigata no Onna, which sings of his love for his hometown, his simple, warm vocals are sure to resonate with listeners who have a wealth of life experience.

You at your worstHamano Haruki

Hamano Haruki “The Worst You – You Were the Worst” (Official Music Video)
You at your worstHamano Haruki

A poignant song by Haruki Hamano that delicately portrays the complex emotions of a woman trying to recover from heartbreak.

It captures universally relatable feelings—such as the struggle to break free from a self-sacrificing relationship and the late-night drives that bring back memories of the past.

Released in December 2023 as the second installment of a six-month consecutive release project, the track leaves a strong impression with its depiction of the strength to sort through lingering feelings for a past love and move forward.

It offers warmth and comfort to those who want to overcome the pain of a breakup.

Highly recommended for anyone struggling with their current relationship or hoping to face their feelings once more.

Piercing blueSena Wataru

Wataru Sena – Sayuru Ao feat. Hatsune Miku / Wataru Sena – Feel Sky Blue ft. Miku Hatsune
Piercing blueSena Wataru

A track by Vocaloid producer Wataru Sena, included on “Sena no Oto 3,” released in November 2024.

The video was published in January 2025.

With delicate beats and crisp synths, it paints a subtly wistful atmosphere.

Many listeners may find themselves deeply moved by the lyrics, which project the feelings of “someone who couldn’t become a genius.” It’s a recommended song for moments when you want to face yourself and sort out your thoughts.

The Bells of Santa MariaTakeshima Hiroshi

Hiroshi Takeshima “Santa Maria no Kane” Music Video
The Bells of Santa MariaTakeshima Hiroshi

The final piece in the “European Trilogy,” following Prague Bridge and A Single Ticket, is Santa Maria no Kane, released in 2023.

Set in Florence, Italy, it’s an epic song, and since the trilogy forms a continuous story, I highly recommend experiencing the world across all three tracks.

Santa Maria no Kane is a triple-time ballad built on a classic 6/8 rhythm; its sound perfectly matches the song’s theme, and Takeshima’s meticulous vocals really stand out—truly a masterpiece.

It’s not easy to draw out this worldview, but try singing it slowly, letting the memorable melody sink in while feeling that 6/8 pulse.