New enka single release [June 2025]

The Last SamuraiHiroshi Kano

Hiroshi Kano “The Last Samurai” Music Video

This is a kayōkyoku song that passionately portrays a man’s melancholy and pure-hearted spirit.

Released by Teichiku Entertainment in May 2025, it marks a renewed collaboration with his longtime mentor, Toyohisa Araki.

The lyrics carefully depict scenes from the Showa era and the way of a man’s life, expressing the gap between boyhood and adulthood through nostalgic terms like “chanbara play” and “adventure play.” While honoring the traditions of enka, it features modern arrangements, resulting in a work that resonates across generations.

It’s a must-listen for anyone who feels nostalgic for the atmosphere of the Showa period.

Women’s Idle MusingsYuji Kitagawa

Yuji Kitagawa “Onna Tsurezure” Music Video

An adult enka song by Yuji Kitagawa, featuring a striking lyric structure that begins with the traditional 5-7 syllabic pattern of tanka.

Released by King Records in May 2025, the track showcases Kitagawa’s seasoned vocal prowess, honed over more than 40 years since his debut.

Its richly emotive melody and delicate lyrics blend beautifully, portraying a woman’s feelings with great care.

While it’s a gently paced ballad, it also carries elements of mood enka that evoke a sense of nostalgia.

Be sure to listen closely and savor it.

Miyuki's Atami OndoMiyuki Kawanaka

Miyuki Kawanaka “Miyuki’s Atami Ondo”

It’s an Ondo-style song overflowing with local pride and an exceptionally friendly vibe.

Performed by Miyuki Kawanaka, it was released digitally in May 2025.

The piece arrives at a landmark moment—the 100th anniversary of Atami Station’s opening.

With lyrics and composition by Kiyoko Osada and arrangement by Norio Ido, it blends the traditional rhythms of Ondo with a modern touch.

Miyuki Kawanaka’s bright vocals warmly embrace lyrics that celebrate Atami’s famous spots and scenery.

If Atami is your hometown, you’ll find it especially delightful to listen to!

hazyYukino Ichikawa

Yukino Ichikawa “Oboro” Music Video

This is a passionate number electrified by a powerful electric guitar from the intro.

It’s a work by Yukino Ichikawa, released in May 2025.

Said to express the innate strength women possess, it also seems to overlap with Ichikawa’s feelings as she returned after a period of rest and battling illness.

It conveys a brilliance of life that goes beyond the confines of a mere “love song.” It may give you a push when you need the resolve to take a new step in life or the strength to overcome obstacles.

A sneaky personAmano Konoha

A sneaky person

A bittersweet yet warm kayō ballad themed around the romance of mature adults.

Composed by Amano Konohana, it was released in May 2025.

The song portrays the feelings of cherishing the present relationship while still probing into past loves.

Its emotionally rich melody fits perfectly with lyrics that convey tolerance and resolve.

If you’ve gathered some life experience, you’ll relate to this depiction of a seasoned, mature love—definitely give it a listen!

fishing lightsMika Tatsuki

fishing lights

It’s an enka song that seeps into the heart, vividly evoking the nightscape of a port town.

Originally released as a coupling track in 1997, this piece by Mika Tateki was re-recorded and released by Nippon Crown in May 2025.

The lyrics, depicting a romance with a younger fisherman, delicately convey a woman’s complex emotions.

With lyrics by Toshiya Niitani and composition by Hiroko Murakami, the song poignantly expresses feelings for a man who is stern at sea yet gentle on land.

Revived after about 28 years, this work radiates Mika Tateki’s deep attachment to it—a true classic.

It’s perfect for nights when you’re weighed down by matters of the heart or simply want to listen quietly and intently.

The End of LoveMasaki Aikawa

Masaki Aikawa / Curtain Call of Love Music Video

A soulful enka ballad that tenderly sings of love’s end, resonating with mature hearts.

It’s the 12th single by enka singer Masaki Aikawa from Kumamoto Prefecture, released in April 2025.

Lyrics by Miwa Ito, music by Hiroshi Tokuhisa.

With Aikawa’s sweet, lustrous low register conveying the theme of a romance’s demise, the song unfolds dramatically.

It’s a track that will especially move those who have tasted both the bitter and the sweet of life.