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New Enka Single Release [February 2025]
In February 2025, a wave of new enka songs blending nostalgia with freshness is emerging.
While faithfully inheriting the spirit of classic enka, these ambitious works captivate younger listeners with contemporary arrangements and innovative lyrical worlds.
We introduce pieces that let you fully savor enka’s unique charm—from rich, velvety vocals that leave a deep aftertaste to emotionally expressive delivery with powerful kobushi ornamentation.
Why not take a step into this new world of enka, where tradition and innovation intertwine?
New enka song releases [February 2025] (1–10)
Yosare Onna-bushiSachiko Shiina
Set against the climate and festivals of the Tsugaru region, a new enka song beautifully portrays the feelings of a woman who keeps waiting for her beloved in her hometown.
Inspired by the folk song “Kuroishi Yosare,” the interwoven scenes of festive bustle and wistful melancholy are deeply moving.
Sachiko Shiina’s powerful yet delicate vocals superbly convey the protagonist’s strong will and aching heart.
Released on February 12, 2025, the song features lyrics by Kanade Hino-ura and composition by Chiaki Oka—both highly accomplished creators.
Its universal themes—such as the anguish of an unfulfilled love and a profound attachment to one’s hometown—resonate with anyone.
Highly recommended for those who find themselves recalling their nostalgic hometown on lonely nights in the city.
Calm or stormKanta Ichijo
As the third installment in a series themed around the ocean, this work powerfully depicts fishermen who keep moving forward with unwavering resolve, whether the seas are calm or raging.
The lyrics by Takashi Banjo and the melody woven by Kenji Miyashita blend beautifully, while Kanta Ichijo’s clear, expansive vocals resonate deeply.
Brimming with speed and dynamism, this piece is sure to accompany those standing at a crossroads in life, offering courage to take a new step forward.
The northern city, HakodateDaisuke Kitagawa
Daisuke Kitagawa has woven a poignant, adult love story set in a port town.
While richly retaining the nostalgic flavor of Showa-era kayōkyoku, this piece features a tenor saxophone that resonates to great effect, creating a gem of a song where wistfulness and warmth blend beautifully.
Scheduled for release in February 2025, the track is set in Hakodate and conveys feelings for a once-beloved partner now separated, expressed with remarkable vocal prowess.
Interweaving evocative depictions of Hakodate—its brick-lined streets and nightscapes—the song brings a heartfelt yearning for someone precious to the fore.
As a mellow, mature enka best savored alone on a quiet night, it leaves a deep and lasting impression.
A man should just cry in silence.Kenji Miyashita
A passionate new work marking the re-debut of veteran enka composer Kenji Miyashita as a singer.
This gem portrays the melancholy of men living through the Showa era, powerfully expressing deep-seated emotions and struggles.
While honoring the traditional enka style, it features modern arrangements for a heartwarming finish.
Released in February 2025, it captivated audiences at the KOBE Ryūkōka Live in Kobe with a fervent performance reminiscent of his days as a traveling street singer.
The coupling track includes “Jinsei Mayoizaka” (Life at the Crossroads).
Sincerely singing of life’s doubts and inner conflicts, this piece is recommended to enka fans as a song that gently soothes hearts weary from everyday life.
true to myselfTokyo Rickshaw
An ambitious work with lyrics penned by enka legend Joji Yamamoto is powerfully performed by the vocal group Tokyo Rikisha! Released in February 2025, the single comes in three formats: Type-A, Type-B, and a limited-production edition.
The lyrics, which radiate a steadfast determination to face forward toward one’s dreams, blend perfectly with the bold sound.
The soulful voices of the rickshaw pullers based in Asakusa will resonate in your heart, reminding you of the importance of living true to yourself.
selfish womanArata Aoyama
While portraying the sweet yet bittersweet heart of a woman, this ambitious work dives into the world of blues-style kayō.
With his gentle aura, Arata Aoyama explores the themes of lingering attachment and jealousy toward a former lover, expressing the complex emotions of a mature woman.
Lyrics by Koyomi Asa and composition by Hideo Mizumori come together to create a memorable song marked by its distinctive triplet rhythm.
Released as a single in February 2025, the work is available in three versions: TYPE TOKYO, TYPE Youth, and TYPE Starry Sky.
It also features a tie-in with TBS Radio’s “Saturday Morning 6 o’clock: Kinashi no Kai.” The song was unveiled to fans for the first time at a concert held on January 26 of the same year at the Urayasu City Cultural Hall, celebrating the 5th anniversary of Aoyama’s debut.
It’s a must-listen not only for those moved by the end of a romance, but also for anyone eager to discover a new side of enka.
Aventure NakameguroMATSURI
A sultry number that paints an adult romance set against the city night.
It’s MATSURI’s debut work, released in January 2025.
With lyrics by Yasushi Akimoto, it deftly captures the unpredictability of love and the rising swell of emotion.
Set to a melody reminiscent of Showa-era mood kayō, it tells of the push and pull between a man and a woman in Nakameguro.
The rhythmic groove is crafted to make your body sway on its own.
A sparkling Reiwa-era take on a new generation of kayōkyoku.