Michinoku Solo Journey: A Collection of Easy-to-Sing Songs by Joji Yamamoto [2026]

music writerKOH-1
Started working as a music writer as a side job while employed at a record shop, and for over 18 years I’ve contributed to music magazines, disc guide books, mooks, and web media. As a writer my main field is Western music, but as a listener for over 35 years, I always try to keep my curiosity alive with the motto “I like what I like.” I have experience playing in bands, where I was a bassist who handled songwriting and composition. Instruments I’ve played include bass, guitar, and piano. I began studying English in my mid-40s and continue to do so today.

After a long apprenticeship period, Joji Yamamoto released “Michinoku Hitori Tabi” in 1980 at the age of 30, which became a massive hit and propelled him into the ranks of top enka singers.

Throughout his long career, he has faced major hardships such as hearing loss and cancer, yet he has overcome them admirably.

Even now, well into the 2020s, he remains an active performer, continuing to sing about men who carry a slightly awkward kindness and a tinge of melancholy on their backs.

Among Yamamoto’s catalog—recently notable for new challenges like the “Joji Yamamoto Heavy Metal Transformation Project”—we’ve selected and compiled songs that are easy to sing at karaoke this time.

For those who want to sing like Yamamoto, be sure to check them out!

[Michinoku Solo Journey] A collection of easy-to-sing songs by Joji Yamamoto [2026] (11–20)

water lilyYamamoto Jōji

[MV] Joji Yamamoto / Water Lilies (Suiren)

water lilyYamamoto Jōji

Even after entering the 2020s, Jōji Yamamoto has continued his energetic activities, and his 2022 single drew attention for featuring the song that won the Grand Prix in the joint project by the Japan Composer’s Association and the Japan Lyricists’ Association, “Song Contest Grand Prix 2022.” Yamamoto’s powerful vocals, which seem to convey a worldview shaped by overcoming serious illness, are truly encouraging.

When singing it at karaoke, note that while the overall key of the melody is low, the vocal range is somewhat broad.

Aim to clearly contrast the high notes and low notes in the chorus, and sing each word of the lyrics with care.

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On the day of farewellYamamoto Jōji

Joji Yamamoto “On the Day We Part” Music Video

On the day of farewellYamamoto Jōji

A love song by Joji Yamamoto that resonates deep in the heart.

Released in July 2025 as the second single commemorating his 50th anniversary, this work is a cover of a renowned song by Masato Sugimoto.

It is said to be the first time in 43 years that Yamamoto has sung a Sugimoto piece.

It portrays the deep, gentle love of a man who feels gratitude toward the partner who has walked a long road by his side, while contemplating the day when they must inevitably part.

Within its restrained words, you can sense emotions too profound to be fully expressed.

When you want to reaffirm the bond with someone precious, the sincerity of this song’s vocals is sure to be a comforting presence.

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In conclusion

As mentioned at the beginning, Mr.

Yamamoto, who has overcome challenges such as losing most of his hearing due to illness and being diagnosed with colon cancer, and who continues to take on new endeavors like the “Heavy Metal-ization Project,” truly embodies a passionate and cool adult.

Among the songs introduced this time, pick the one that suits your taste and try singing it in the style of Mr.

Yamamoto!