Legendary enka songs that fire up the crowd. A song catalog of enka picks you won’t go wrong with at karaoke.
For those who think, “When I go to karaoke, I want to hype up the room with enka, but I don’t know what to sing,” and for anyone who wants to surprise their coworkers, friends, or family by singing something different than usual—this is a must-read! In this article, we’ll introduce a lineup of classic enka songs that are guaranteed to get the crowd going.
We’ve picked not only upbeat tracks and songs that are fun for call-and-response, but also well-known enka standards.
Use this as a guide when choosing your next karaoke setlist.
Uplifting enka masterpieces: A selection catalog of enka songs you won’t fail with at karaoke (1–10)
Crimson ButterflyKeisuke Yamauchi
This is a song that portrays a fleeting yet burning love, like a butterfly dancing lightly in the air.
It is a track by enka singer Keisuke Yamauchi, known for hits such as “Furenko,” released as a single in February 2024.
The song expresses the inner conflict that comes from love and the resolve to risk everything and leap into the arms of the beloved, drawing listeners into its dramatic world.
If you fully embody the song’s protagonist as you sing, it’s sure to move those who listen!
No way!/Not a chance!Mika Jinno
This is a cool song that exudes strength and faces forward without hesitation! It’s a track by Mika Shinno, who thrives beyond the boundaries of enka, and it’s set to be released as a single in May 2025.
Her soul-stirring vocals are irresistible.
Singing about the resolve to carve out the future on one’s own two feet, this piece gives you a boost just by listening.
Perfect for belting out at karaoke when you want to feel refreshed, or when you want to liven up the mood by showing a different side of yourself!
246Naoki Sanada
A high-octane power tune with a razor-edged sound that races ahead! This single by rising enka star Naoki Sanada, released in May 2024, was written and composed by his mentor, Ikuzo Yoshi.
Set on National Route 246, the song portrays an uncertain romance between a man and a woman as they take detours on a drive.
Sanada’s signature “knockout voice” resounds with force, as if blowing away all pent-up frustration.
Perfect for anyone who wants to belt it out and feel totally refreshed!
Osaka Love DropletKaori Mizumori
How about enjoying Kaori Mizumori’s song that marks her 30th debut anniversary? Released in March 2025, this “happy enka” is set in Osaka.
It beautifully tells the story of a woman who overcomes a painful past to find new happiness.
You may be pleasantly surprised by this new side of the queen who has traveled Japan in song across 45 prefectures.
Perform it at karaoke, and its bright melody is sure to delight everyone.
Be sure to add it to your new repertoire.
At the whim of ManiYūki Matsuzaka
A very stylish number that fuses the chic world of enka with pop.
It’s a song by Yuki Matsuzaka, released in June 2024 as his ninth single.
This work is an enka-kayō piece characterized by a light, jazz club–like sound.
The lyrics portray the bittersweet feelings of a heart swayed by love, drawing you right into its world.
Sing it at karaoke and nail it in style!
Rose perfumeMinami Hazuki
Minami Hazuki covered the classic song originally sung by Yuko Yano in 1997, releasing it in February 2025 as part of a global strategy series.
Her rich, mature vocals fit perfectly with the sophisticated atmosphere of the piece.
The lyrics, which recall a former lover, are both heart-wrenching and irresistibly relatable—you can’t help but overlay them with your own life.
It’s an ideal track for anyone who wants to deliver a gentle, adult-themed ballad of tragic love.
It’s also a great pick when you want to surprise your audience with something different from your usual repertoire!
Great Catch TaikoKanta Ichijo
With lively drum beats and spirited calls, it’s guaranteed to lift the mood for both singers and listeners alike! This is a work by Kanta Ichijo, released in May 2024.
Following “Otoko no Gyoba,” it’s the second installment in the “Men of the Sea” series.
The bustling energy of a port celebrating a big catch and the pride of those who live by the sea come through directly in his powerful vocals.
The music video was filmed in Choshi City, Chiba Prefecture, featuring a collaboration with an authentic taiko group.
Shouting the “Yoisho!” call together will definitely crank up the excitement.