[2025] Recommended enka by male singers with captivating high notes

Wandering ShipShinichi Mori

Wandering Ship

This is a classic by Shinichi Mori that captures the subtle shifts of a man’s heart.

Singing of heartbreak and the transience of life, it rides on an emotionally rich enka melody and shakes the soul with his deep, resonant voice.

Released in 1972, this masterpiece is the work of the lyricist Yū Aku and composer Kōshō Inomata.

Though it had no tie-ins with films or TV dramas, it has been etched into the hearts of many.

Showcasing Mori’s soaring high notes and delicate emotional expression, this song offers empathy and comfort when you find yourself at a crossroads in life or carrying wounds in your heart.

Snow, Moon, and FlowersYuto Tatsumi

Yuto Tatsumi “Setsugetsuka” Music Video

Yuto Tatsumi’s “Setsugekka” is a new-generation enka that captivates with its soaring high notes and fresh, vibrant vocals.

The lyrics, which symbolize the changing seasons, beautifully express a bittersweet love and nostalgia for bygone times through his clear, transparent voice.

Released in January 2022, this piece is a fitting song to celebrate the fifth anniversary of Tatsumi’s debut.

While firmly rooted in enka, its modern sensibilities and refined Japanese aesthetic are sure to resonate with a wide range of listeners.

It’s also a great pick for those who want to revel in expansive high notes or take on a challenge at karaoke.

Back Alley FirefliesKenta Koori

Kenta Koori “Backstreet Firefly” [Official Full Chorus MV]

The enka singer Kenta Koori, who is drawing attention in the genre, released a song in September 2024 that richly captures the emotions of a wistful love, likening it to the glow of fireflies.

Released to commemorate the 15th anniversary of his debut, the piece features lyrics depicting the fleeting scenes of love and a passionate vocal performance.

It’s packed with the appeal of enka that makes full use of a wide vocal range, allowing listeners to savor both his soaring high notes and his lustrous low-register expressiveness.

When trying it at karaoke, the key is to value emotional expression while minding the balance between highs and lows.

It’s a recommended track for those who want to touch on the subtleties of love and life.

I long for Southern HokkaidoYudai Koyama

The 66th Shining! Japan Record Awards Newcomer Award | Yudai Koyama “Donan Koishiya” Music Video (Full Ver.)

Characterized by its expansive high-toned vocals, this song beautifully captures both nostalgia for the southern Hokkaido region and the stirrings of romance.

Yudai Koyama’s powerful singing richly conveys feelings for his hometown’s scenery and its people.

Released in April 2024 by King Records as his debut single, the track is a superb fusion of vocal technique honed in folk music and the traditions of enka.

With lyrics by Suzuko Sawada and composition by Tetsuya Gen, the stellar creative team brings out Koyama’s charm to the fullest.

It’s a recommended listen for those living away from their hometown, or anyone who wants to feel the bonds with someone dear.

Winter MoonKiyoshi Hikawa

Kiyoshi Hikawa / Winter Moon [Official]

While it follows the classic path of traditional enka, this captivating song also conveys a hint of freshness.

With the moon shining in the winter night sky as its central motif, it skillfully portrays the feelings of a solitary man.

Hikawa Kiyoshi’s signature beautiful high notes and rich, resonant vocals further enhance the song’s appeal.

Released in September 2011 as a B-side to the single “Jounetsu no Mariachi,” this track has become a fan favorite and is sometimes performed at live shows and concerts.

It’s recommended not only for enka enthusiasts but also for those who love soaring high vocals.

A song you might find yourself wanting to listen to alone, quietly, on a calm winter night.

Mother-longing SakeKohei Fukuda

Mother-longing Sake

A popular song by Kohei Fukuda, whose father is the folk singer Iwatsuki Fukuda.

It features attractively soaring high notes and a wide vocal range that reflect his roots in folk music.

This classic enka number channels feelings for one’s hometown and mother into a song about drinking, and is included on the July 2018 single Tenryu Nagashi.

Written and composed by Ikuzo Yoshi, it’s a piece that fully showcases Fukuda’s vocal prowess.

The lyrics express a nostalgia shared by people living in the city, making it a great choice for those who want to try it at karaoke.

If you’re good at hitting high notes, be sure to use Fukuda’s performance as a reference and sing out with all your might.

Boatwoman's SongMichiya Mihashi

Boatwoman's Song

When it comes to enka renowned for captivating high notes, you can’t overlook the songs of Michiya Mihashi, whose voice was forged through folk music.

Mihashi, with his rich range from soaring highs to resonant lows, has long captured listeners’ hearts with his expansive, expressive singing.

Released in 1955, this piece is a masterpiece that portrays the poignant feelings of a female boatwoman.

Mihashi’s powerful vocal delivery superbly conveys both the heroine’s strength and sorrow.

Especially noteworthy are the high notes in the chorus, which ring out with power.

The memorable melody line leaves a deep impression on the listener.

Since its release in 1955, it has continued to be loved by many and stands as a towering monument in the enka genre.

It’s a perfect choice for those who want to fully savor the allure of high notes or experience the very essence of enka.