Classic enka songs you’ll want to sing at karaoke: recommended popular tracks
Enka, the genre of music that helped energize Japan up through around the 1980s.
Countless masterpieces were born in this field of enka.
This time, we’re featuring the crème de la crème—timeless enka hits that defined their eras and are perfect for singing at karaoke.
From well-known classics to hidden gems known only to aficionados, we’ve selected songs across a wide range of years and styles, so be sure to find the one that suits you.
We’re introducing quite a number of tracks, making this a great pick for anyone who wants to reminisce alongside enka.
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Enka Masterpieces You’ll Want to Sing at Karaoke: Recommended Popular Songs (71–80)
Late-Blooming HEROYuasa Michiru
Released in May 2024, this work is a powerful anthem that celebrates the importance of pursuing your dreams.
It features an exotic, avant-garde vocal style, highlighted by Michiru Yuasa’s uninhibited voice.
Yuhei Hanaoka’s sophisticated lyrics and Makoto Sugimoto’s composition are a perfect match, resulting in a track that gives listeners a strong push forward.
The vibrant, glamorous sound is sure to lift your spirits.
On the release day, a live showcase for the new song was held in Daikanyama, Tokyo, drawing many fans.
It’s a must-listen for anyone looking to take on a challenge or hold fast to an unshakable will not to give up.
The one I still love even after we’ve broken upLos Indios & Sylvia
Even If We Break Up, I Still Love You is an urban, stylish enka mood duet released in 1979 that became a million seller.
The female vocalist, Sylvia, has an interesting background: she was formerly a corporate league volleyball player, was scouted while singing karaoke in Osaka, joined Los Indios, and their debut song, Even If We Break Up, I Still Love You, became a massive hit.
Flowers of TsugaruYuri Harada
Released in 1999 as Yuri Harada’s 17th single.
Although it peaked at No.
42 on the Oricon chart, it became a long-running hit and ultimately sold over 160,000 copies.
The song won the Excellent Work Award at the 41st Japan Record Awards, and with this song she made her first appearance at the 50th NHK Kōhaku Uta Gassen.
Such is a woman's soliloquyMasuiyama Daishiro
A masterpiece by Taishiro Masuiyama that skillfully expresses feelings from the depths of the heart.
The lyrics vividly portray a woman’s heartrending emotions and leave a strong impression.
Released in September 1977, it reached No.
13 on the Oricon chart.
It continued to stay on the charts for an extended period, achieving an astonishing total sales figure of 1.
39 million copies.
Highly recommended for those who want to gain a deeper understanding of the subtleties between men and women, as well as for younger listeners who admire mature romance.
Sing it at karaoke and you’re sure to capture the audience’s hearts.
Captain SlowpokeHiroshi Oe
It was released in 2009 as Hiroshi Oe’s debut single.
The song depicts a man who is always laughed at for being clumsy and slow, yet resolves to one day become a big success and rises to his feet.
It’s an upbeat track that suits Hiroshi Oe’s image well.
The composition was written by Saburo Kitajima—whom Oe had long hoped to apprentice under and regards as his mentor—using his pen name, Joji Hara.
Wharf of TransienceKeisuke Yamauchi
This is a single released by Keisuke Yamauchi in 2016, which debuted at No.
5 on the Oricon chart—his first-ever top-five entry since his debut.
Following his previous release, Spotlight, it became another hit for him.
Known for his handsome features and especially popular among women, he is regarded as one of the promising young enka singers to watch.
Koitou (Koitome) CoastHiromi Yamaguchi
This song, which gives voice to a bittersweet love, is set on Hokkaido’s Koitoi Coast and unfolds like a story that weaves together the pain of heartbreak and hope for the future.
The beautiful scenery of the Pacific Ocean blends perfectly with Hiromi Yamaguchi’s richly expressive vocals.
Released in July 2024, the track was created by the songwriting team behind the successful “Mitsui no Banshō,” bringing out Yamaguchi’s charm to the fullest.
It’s also great for karaoke, and perfect for times when you want to reflect on love and life.