Queen of Enka: A roundup of Aki Yashiro’s easy-to-sing songs

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.

Aki Yashiro, a one-of-a-kind singer who sadly left this world on December 30, 2023.

She began performing as a club singer in her teens and, after her breakthrough, became known as the “Queen of Enka.” Yet she never stayed confined to a single field, taking on challenges in many areas.

In the 2010s, she even released a full-fledged jazz album and made her international debut.

Her tremendous achievements can’t be summed up in just a few lines.

Yashiro’s songs are also very popular for karaoke, but many are quite challenging, thanks to her distinctive husky voice, plaintive tone, and exceptional vocal skill and expressiveness.

So in this article, we’re introducing some of Yashiro’s songs that are relatively easy to sing at karaoke—be sure to check them out.

[Queen of Enka] Aki Yashiro’s Easy-to-Sing Songs (11–20)

A blues that tingles me to the boneYashiro Aki

A blues that tingles me to the bone

A blues that tingles me to the boneYashiro Aki

Aki Yashiro, who remained active throughout her life from the 1970s to the 2020s, delivered a standout song in the 2000s: “Hone made Shibireru Blues” (“A Blues That Numbs to the Bone”)! With lyrics by Toyohisa Araki, music by Hideo Mizumori, and arrangement by Tatsumi Yano, it’s a kayōkyoku-style track that, true to its title, carries a bluesy flavor.

Overall, the melody sits on the lower side, making it a good recommendation for those who struggle with high notes.

Conversely, for those who find low notes difficult, it’s great practice for singing a sultry low register with vibrato.

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In conclusion

In an interview, Ms. Yashiro said, “I’ve sung with the intention of speaking for those who carry pain and sorrow.” Because she spent her teenage years enduring many hardships to become a singer, she was likely able to keep singing as someone’s voice at all times. With that sentiment from Ms. Yashiro in mind, please try singing the songs we introduced this time.