[Traditional Performing Arts of Okinawa] A special feature on classic Eisa songs that make you want to dance
We’re introducing songs that make you want to dance—both lively picks and timeless classics—perfect for Eisa, the traditional Okinawan summer performance.
Eisa is said to have begun as a dance to see off and welcome ancestral spirits during the Obon season, and nowadays events are held not only in Okinawa but elsewhere as well.
Each song captures the spirit and character of Okinawa, lifting you into a bright, joyful mood.
Give them a listen not only when choosing music for Eisa, but also whenever you want to savor powerful, radiant Okinawan songs that fit beautifully in those settings.
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[Okinawan Traditional Performing Arts] Eisa Classics: A Special Feature on Songs That Make You Want to Dance (11–20)
Orion Beer, Okinawa’s prideBEGIN
BEGIN is a band whose charm lies in songs that blend acoustic blues with J-pop.
They are known for hits like “Nada Sou Sou,” released in 2000, and “Shimanchu nu Takara,” released in 2002.
One of their hidden gems is “Ojii Jiman no Orion Beer,” released in 2003.
Its bouncy rhythm feels great, and the irresistibly bright, beautiful lyrics are perfect for Eisa! If everyone dances while listening to this song, it’s sure to lift your spirits.
Kankara Sanshin UmushirumunBEGIN
Just hearing the cheerful sound of the sanshin makes your heart start to dance.
In the lyrics, the three strings are likened to a family—the father, the mother, and the children—humorously singing about them blending together in harmony.
You can almost feel the excitement of waiting for Okinawa’s summer Eisa festivals and even hear the sounds of a laid-back life; simply listening brings a smile to your face.
This piece is included on the classic album “Begin no Shimauta – Omoto Takeo 2,” released in July 2002, alongside songs like “Shimanchu nu Takara.” It’s perfect not only for lifting the spirits of the whole family, but also as an enjoyable first step for anyone who wants to start playing the sanshin.
Pa-pa PineappleNago Pineapple Park
This song from Nago Pineapple Park, featuring a bright melody packed with tropical cheer and a pop rhythm, is a refreshing track that seems to capture the sparkle of the Okinawan sun in music.
Released in 2013, it was recorded in four languages: Japanese, English, Chinese, and Korean.
In December 2024, it evolved even further with a new music video featuring FC Ryukyu’s dance team, “Gyakushū no BOMBERZ.” It’s a perfect fit for school sports festivals, Eisa performances, and group routines, with energetic choreography and an addictive chorus that make it ideal for everyone to have fun moving together.
Festival of the Seventh Month
An energetic track by Ryukyu Mendan Shoryu Matsuri Daiko that preserves Okinawa’s traditional melodies and rhythms while adding a modern arrangement.
The powerful beat of the taiko drums blends beautifully with the plaintive tones of the sanshin, stirring the listener’s heart.
The promotional video, filmed across Okinawa’s main island in October 2013, captures dynamic performances set against Naha City, the area around Shurijo Castle, and stunning coastlines—showcasing Okinawa’s captivating scenery.
It’s an ideal piece for group routines at school sports festivals and dance performances incorporating Eisa.
The commanding drum rhythms and distinctive melodic lines will unite the entire venue and captivate the audience.
Ryukyuan HymnToyomitsu Umisegashira
Hosei Toyo’s music, where traditional Okinawan sounds and modern elements blend beautifully, captivates with the powerful rhythms of the sanshin and drums and melodies that resonate in the heart.
This piece celebrates the charms of Okinawa and is a familiar tune among locals, used for the prefecture’s tourism promotions and as a theme song for local TV programs.
Incorporating it into a school sports day program will let the energetic drum beats and the dynamic tones of the sanshin further elevate the children’s performance.
My heart is pounding with excitement.Kochihira Takane
This work, whose title in the Okinawan dialect means “heart racing” or “feeling excited,” is one of Takane Kochihira’s signature songs in his musical career.
It’s a bright, rhythmic piece that brilliantly fuses elements of Okinawan folk music with pop, featuring an impressive, dynamic melody woven by the sound of the sanshin and a full band.
While honoring Okinawa’s traditional music, its contemporary arrangement brings out a fresh appeal, making it an ideal track for Eisa dances performed at school sports festivals.
[Okinawan Traditional Performing Arts] Eisa Classics: A Special Feature on Songs That Make You Want to Dance (21–30)
Flower CityAkira Ikuma
A powerful work that weaves a moving sound by fusing Okinawan traditional music with rock and pop.
The soulful vocals praising the preciousness of the Earth and life, the strong rhythms of the drums, and the beautiful melodies of the sanshin are in perfect harmony.
Singing of the importance of local culture and bonds, this piece features approachable arrangements of Okinawan performing arts and fully conveys the appeal of new music born from the interplay of tradition and innovation.
It’s perfect for performing Eisa at a school sports festival, and is a must-listen for anyone interested in traditional performing arts or dance.