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New enka single release [June 2025]

In June 2025, a fresh breeze may be blowing through the world of enka.

While honoring the spirit of tradition, a number of new songs that incorporate contemporary sensibilities are drawing attention.

These tracks, where warm vocals and the mood of the times blend exquisitely, are not only moving the hearts of enka fans but are also quietly beginning to resonate with younger generations.

Among the carefully selected new songs introduced here, you may find one that speaks to your heart.

New Enka Song Releases [June 2025] (11–20)

Seagull of the HeartJunko Akimoto

This work by Junko Akimoto is one of the double A-side single’s tracks released in June 2025.

You’ll be drawn to its grand sound arrangement, highlighted by striking string tones.

The lyrics, portraying a resolve to live strongly by overcoming life’s rough seas like a seagull taking flight, really hit home.

Akimoto’s voice, rich in depth and warmth, resonates with the heart.

Why not give it a listen when you want to forget the bustle of everyday life and take time to reflect on yourself?

The Nightingale’s Unrequited LoveHiroshi Takeshima

Hiroshi Takeshima “The Nightingale’s Unrequited Love” Music Video
Nightingale's Unrequited Love by Hiroshi Takeshima

A piercing ache for a loved one grips the heart.

This song by Hiroshi Takeshima is a moving tale of tragic love inspired by an Andersen fairytale.

With heartfelt emotion, it portrays a nightingale’s pure resolve to risk its life to save the one it loves.

Released in June 2025 as his 30th single, it even hit No.

1 on the cable enka/kayōkyoku request rankings before it went on sale! Its dramatic melody and heart-grabbing vocals draw listeners irresistibly into the story’s world.

Be sure to listen closely!

Drift Ice Missing PersonJunko Miki

Junko Miki “Drift Ice, Person Being Sought” Music Video
Drift Ice Missing Person: Miki Junko

The harsh scenes of the northern country and the swelling emotions—their drama is deeply moving.

This song by Junko Miki, released in June 2025 to commemorate her 30th anniversary since debut, richly portrays the poignant feelings of a protagonist traveling with thoughts of a precious person, set against the Sea of Okhotsk and its drifting ice.

As the concluding piece of the “Sea Trilogy,” following Wandering Seagull and Stray Star of the Strait, it carries a depth that truly feels like the culmination of the series.

If you love dramatic enka or are seeking a song that resonates in the heart, this will surely strike a chord.

Woman… Prelude DanceMisato Satomi

Misato Satomi “Woman… Prelude” Music Video
Woman… Prelude Dance Misato Satomi

This is a profoundly moving piece that shakes the heart with its portrayal of a woman who, after overcoming sorrow, faces forward with poise.

Performed by Satomi Misato, whose powerful voice was honed through folk singing, the song was released in June 2025.

Inspired by literary works, its lyrics explore themes of life’s turning points and new beginnings.

Misato herself reportedly immersed deeply in the song’s world as she sang, imbuing each word with care and delivering a performance whose expressive power feels resolute.

If you’re in the mood to “take a new step,” this is a must-listen.

Noren SakeHiroshi Kanemura

Hiroshi Kanemura “Noren-sake” Music Video
Noren-Sake Kanemura Hiroshi

It’s a deeply moving song that conjures up the image of a parent and child standing shoulder to shoulder.

A work by Hiroshi Kanamura, it was released in June 2025.

With lyrics by Chihiro Fuyuyu and music by Ryuzo Kimura, the piece tenderly sings of memories with one’s father and the warmth of sharing drinks together.

Its gentle melodic line, imbued with the traditional sentiment of enka, is another of its charms.

Many listeners will likely find themselves resonating with the bond between parent and child depicted here.

Love’s Labyrinth Dancing NightOkhotsk Taro

Okhotsk Taro “Labyrinth of Love: Dancing Night” [Melody Records] Official Artist Video
Love Labyrinth Dancing Night Okhotsk Taro

It’s brimming with an irresistible charm that makes you want to dance.

Created by Okhotsk Taro, this piece is the title track of a single released in May 2025, featuring a modern arrangement that blends elements of disco and funk while retaining the sentiment of Showa-era pop.

The combination of a catchy melody line and energetic rhythm offers a fresh surprise to listeners across generations.

How about using it as background music for a party scene?

New Enka Song Releases [June 2025] (21–30)

Gion Dark Cherry BlossomsHiroshi Miyama

This is a tragic love story set in Kyoto’s Gion! With lyrics by Shinichi Ishihara and music by Tetsuya Gen, it’s slated for release in June 2025.

The lyrics interweave the ambience of the hanamachi and a fleeting romance, painting beautiful scenes reminiscent of Taisho romanticism.

Sang tenderly by Hiroshi Miyama, his warm voice conveys the ache of unrequited love.

Highly recommended for those who want to savor the atmosphere of traditional Japan or lose themselves in thoughts of the ancient capital!