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New enka single release [December 2024]

In December 2024, a wave of new enka songs that resonate with the Japanese heart is emerging one after another.

As the enka scene evolves with the times, more songs are appearing that cherish traditional flavors while incorporating modern arrangements and innovative expressions.

These gem-like vocals, woven with deep emotion and rich expressiveness, deliver genuine moving experiences to listeners.

Let us introduce the standout new tracks that will color this winter.

New Enka Song Releases [December 2024] (21–30)

A Man's LifeKiyoko Suizenji

A new song included on the album “The Essence of Support Songs ~A Man’s Life~,” commemorating the 60th anniversary of her debut, it’s a cheering anthem themed around a man’s way of life.

With lyrics by the late Tetsurō Hoshino and music by Jendai Kanō, this piece has been nurtured for around 20 years.

Kiyoko Suizenji’s powerful vocals portray a man who values compassion over honor or money.

The song celebrates the strength of a man who, though troubled by love and duty, lives with pride.

Released on October 15, 2024, the album also features past classics such as “March of 365 Steps” and “Ippondokko no Uta.” It’s a reassuring track not only for longtime fans but also for anyone feeling lost in life.

In the Wandering TownKazuya Himuro

Kazuya Himuro “In a Wandering Town” MUSIC VIDEO
Kazuya Himuro in the wandering town

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.

New Enka Song Releases [December 2024] (31–40)

Crimson TearsMiyu Tsubuki

Miyu Tsubuki 'Namida Beni' MUSIC VIDEO
Namida Benitsubuki 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?

Lake SaromaRyoko Akiyama

Ryoko Akiyama 'Lake Saroma' Music Video
Lake Saroma Akiyama Ryoko

A gem of a song that portrays the aching heart of a woman against the backdrop of Hokkaido’s beautiful nature.

Ryoko Akiyama’s gentle vocals superbly capture both the stillness and vastness of Lake Saroma.

Through a story of reclaiming a lost love, this emotionally rich piece resonates deeply with listeners.

Released on November 20, 2024, it is the fifth installment in the Hokkaido series, also serving to share the region’s charm nationwide.

Its expression of emotions in harmony with nature is striking, conveying the strength of a woman who overcomes the past and steps into a new life.

With heartfelt lyrics and Akiyama’s compelling performance in perfect balance, this is a must-listen track for enka fans.

This and that in the nightRan Tachibana & Razor Ramon RG

This song portrays the romantic entanglements of men and women set against the nightlife of Ginza, told through a unique duet.

It brims with the charm created by the unconventional pairing of Ran Tachibana and Razor Ramon RG.

Released on November 27, 2024, the track is a pop, danceable kayōkyoku number.

The lyrics by Yuyu Yuzuki weave in RG’s classic “relatable” bits, adding a touch of lighthearted humor.

You can feel the atmosphere of the night city while enjoying the push-and-pull of romance.

It’s recommended for those who want to liven up a karaoke session or savor a slightly more grown-up love story.

A miraculous love storyJunretsu

A love song about fateful encounters and the strength of bonds.

It expresses the feeling of two hearts meeting and believing in a future they will walk together.

The imagery of a red-thread puzzle and imperfect pieces gradually forming one great bond is striking.

Set to Junretsu’s characteristically powerful yet gentle melody, it conveys hope and joy in love.

The track launched on streaming in November 2024 and was released on CD in January 2025.

It’s a song of special significance to Junretsu, first unveiled at their inaugural Nippon Budokan concert.

Recommended for those struggling with love or wanting to feel a deep connection with someone important.

Wrapped in its warm vocals, your heart is sure to be soothed.

Shall I go back to Kure…Ryusuke Tani

[MV One Chorus] Ryusuke Tani 'Shall I Return to Kure...' [Official]
Shall I go back to Kure... Ryusuke Tani

In December 2024, Ryusuke Tani’s new single was released.

It’s a song filled with deep love for his hometown of Kure, Hiroshima, produced by Ikuzo Yoshi.

Part of it is said to be inspired by the local folk song Ondo no Funauta.

The single also includes a cover of Futari-bune as the coupling track.

Nineteen years since his 2005 debut, Tani’s vocals have grown even more refined.

Carried by a lyrical, emotionally rich melody, his longing for home comes through plainly and powerfully.

It might be great to listen to while driving—it’s sure to warm your heart.