New enka single release [March 2025]

Flowers of MichinokuRyuko Mizuta

Ryuko Mizuta “Flowers of Michinoku” Music Video

An emotionally rich song interweaving the beautiful landscapes and scenes of Tohoku.

Ryuko Mizuta’s powerful yet delicate vocals portray the poignant inner feelings of a woman who continues to think of the one she loves.

Released in February 2025 as her 39th single, it was crafted by an illustrious team: lyrics by Reiji Mizuki, composition by Keisuke Hama, and arrangement by Megumi Wakakusa.

Layered with Mizuta’s lustrous singing, the result is a deeply expressive piece.

Brimming with a sense of travel and longing, this work is a must-listen for anyone who resonates with love for someone far away or who is interested in the climate and culture of the Tohoku region.

It also weaves in real place names such as the peaks of Mount Zao and Nakanose Bridge, offering an even deeper flavor for those who know these locales.

Iyasa(ka), YassaiSayuri Ishikawa

Sayuri Ishikawa “Yasaka (Iyasaka) Yassai” Music Video

This enka number, themed on Noto’s traditional Abare Festival, delivers a bold, powerful impression.

With lyrics by Shohei Mozu and composition by Keisuke Hama, it’s an ambitious work set to be released in March 2025 as a song by Sayuri Ishikawa.

The layered chants create a vibrant sense of motion, while the intricate arrangement enhances the song’s appeal.

It’s a track brimming with immediacy, as if you can feel the festival’s heat and hear people’s breathing.

Carrying the spirit of a festival with a 350-year history into the present, it sings grandly of prayers for health and bountiful harvests.

It’s a song you’ll want to hear when you need a lift or when you’d like to sing along with someone special.

To my belovedOsamu Saijō

[2c Audio Source] To My Beloved / Osamu Saijo

This is a kayōkyoku (Japanese popular song) that conveys gratitude with warmth.

It is Osamu Saijō’s debut work, released in February 2025 by Free Board Records.

Its gentle, narrative melody carries heartfelt thanks to his grandmother.

This is a song to listen to when you stand at a crossroads in life or want to reflect on memories with someone dear.

It’s a track best enjoyed while thinking of the gratitude you feel for the family and loved ones who have supported you.

Nagoya YearningMiho Matsubara

Miho Matsubara “Nagoya Longing” [Melody Records] Official Artist Video

Set against the streets of Nagoya, this work depicts a graceful, pure love between a man and a woman.

Beautifully performed by Miho Matsubara, it was released as a single in March 2025.

The music video, featuring a sibling co-appearance with her younger brother, Tanishi Matsubara, also drew attention.

With lyrics by Issei Mine and composition by Kiyotaka Takeuchi—both highly accomplished creators—the piece weaves a gem-like melody infused with the emotions of both protagonists.

It is recommended for those seeking a heartwarming kayōkyoku whose tender feelings for a loved one resonate deeply.