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New Enka Single Release [May 2025]
A new breeze is beginning to blow through the enka scene in the Reiwa era.
In May 2025, a string of notable new songs is arriving—works that honor the long-cherished traditions of enka while exuding a contemporary vitality.
Whether you’re well-versed in enka or relatively new to it, you’ll likely find your heart moved by its tones and voices.
In this article, we invite you into a fresh world of enka, where emotive vocals and lyrics that reflect the times are woven together.
New Enka Releases [May 2025] (1–10)
AGAIN ~In the Spring Breeze~Koji Yamaguchi
A lyrical ballad that gently paints springtime scenery and the feeling of falling in love.
Set for release in May 2025 as a major-label debut, it was written and composed by Koji Yamaguchi, with arrangement by Toshiya Shimizu.
Within a simple, piano-centered arrangement, Yamaguchi’s warm vocals resonate throughout.
The lyrics, softly whispering “I’ll fall in love again and again,” are truly lovely.
It’s a perfect song to listen to while taking a spring stroll or enjoying cherry blossoms.
A Seeker of MemoriesSumi
This is a labor-of-love work released by Sumi in April 2025 from Wing Japan, with lyrics by Ryuichi Satomura, music by Akihiro Otani, and arrangement by Yasuomi Suo.
Blending a dazzling melody with Sumi’s rich expressiveness, the piece evokes a cinematic sense of storytelling.
You can vividly picture the heartrending scene of waiting for someone who is no longer there—it really seeps into your heart.
Funamizaka (Funami Slope)Sora Taiju
Set in a northern port town, this is a wistful love song.
Released in May 2025, it is positioned as the third installment in Daiki Sora’s “Hokkaido Series.” The story, set against famous sights in Otaru, paints vivid scenes in the listener’s mind.
Sora’s sweet yet heartrending vocals beautifully capture the delicate emotions of the male narrator.
The worldview, where the cityscape overlaps with a bittersweet romance, is a must-hear.
Be sure to give it a close listen!
Tsugaru Nakase-bushiTakashi Hosokawa
Set against the Sea of Tsugaru, this is an authentic enka that passionately sings of a love steeped in melancholy.
Only Takashi Hosokawa could deliver such a powerful yet deeply expressive vocal that captivates the heart.
The dynamic interplay of Tsugaru shamisen and strings is also superbly crafted.
Released in May 2025 as a work commemorating his 50th year in the performing arts, it drew significant attention from enka fans.
It’s perfect not only for those who love traditional enka, but also for anyone eager to be enthralled by the commanding sound of the Tsugaru shamisen.
It’s also well-suited for karaoke performances.
Karakuri Kabuki KaleidoscopeRie Nakanishi
From Reiwa to Edo, and all the way back to Heian.
This ambitious work portrays a groundbreaking love story that transcends time and place.
It’s Rie Nakanishi’s 15th single, set to be released by Nippon Crown in May 2025.
The song features an all-star creative team: lyrics by Reiji Mizuki, composition by Keisuke Hama, and arrangement by Megumi Wakakusa.
Its mysterious, time-hopping twists were the talk of the recording sessions, with a sense of fun that’s impossible not to smile at.
While honoring the traditional flavor of enka, it’s adorned with a fantastical, bewitching arrangement.
By stepping beyond the boundaries of enka, it pioneers a new genre that music lovers of all kinds can enjoy.
Kegon FallsKaori Aoi
The dramatic arrangement—featuring strings that evoke grand natural scenery and the inclusion of traditional Japanese instruments—leaves a strong impression.
Aoi Kaori’s “Kegon no Taki,” released in May 2025, beautifully harmonizes a worldview inspired by Kegon Falls in Nikko, Tochigi Prefecture, with her heartrending vocals, just as the title suggests.
The lyrics, reflecting a woman’s feelings as she tries to forget a love that has ended, really hit home.
This is enka at its finest—be sure to experience it for yourself.
Sayonara, you.Reiju
This song perfectly blends the nostalgic charm of Showa-era kayōkyoku with modern arrangements.
Released in May 2025 by Tokuma Japan Communications, it features emotionally rich vocals by Leiju, an artist from Taiwan, intertwined with a sentimental melody that beautifully captures the ache of heartbreak.
It’s the kind of song that makes you inevitably reflect on your own past loves.
Highly recommended for anyone who has experienced a painful goodbye or who feels drawn to Showa-era pop.