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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Classic enka songs to sing at karaoke: recommended popular tracks (41–50)
The Camellia Sasanqua InnEisaku Okawa
Known as one of Eisaku Okawa’s signature songs, this work is a classic enka piece that portrays a heartrending love.
Its lyrics, centered on an illicit affair, are striking, and the bittersweet feelings of the man and woman—likened to the scarlet blossoms of the sasanqua—resonate deeply.
Released in 1982, the song sold over 1.
8 million copies and drew great attention, including a debut in the Oricon Top 10 in 1983.
Sung at karaoke, its emotionally rich melody and lyrics are sure to move listeners.
It’s a recommended choice for those who want to express the sorrow and complex emotions of love.
I won’t let you go tonight.Rumiko Koyanagi & Yukio Hashi
The enka-style duet “Konya wa Hanasanai” is a lively song with a pop Latin rhythm.
It’s perfect for a fun duet with someone you love.
Released in July 1983 as Yukio Hashi’s 149th single, it’s a stylish track that still feels fresh when sung at karaoke today.
A Doll's HouseMieko Hirota
A timeless classic representing the Showa era and one of Mieko Hirota’s signature songs.
Its poignant lyrics and beautiful melody strike a deep chord.
The lyrics, which depict the sorrow of a woman who lived for love by likening her to a doll covered in dust, are particularly memorable.
Released in October 1969, it reached No.
1 on the Oricon charts and was also included on an album of the same name.
It has been covered by many artists and even featured in popular anime such as Sazae-san.
Perfect for times when you want to soothe the pain of heartbreak or savor the nostalgic atmosphere of the Showa period.
Why not immerse yourself in the heartfelt lyrics along with Hirota’s vocals?
Love SongKiyoshi Maekawa
The resonance of the saxophone in the intro sharply enhances the song’s appeal, and the melody flows with a gentle tone.
Try singing this as a love song in front of the woman you like.
It will surely create the perfect moment to capture her heart.
“Koiuta” was released by Teichiku Records in July 2007.
Homesickness on a JourneyMidori Nishizaki
The melancholic tone is beautifully performed throughout, and the song portrays a woman’s heart living for a single, unwavering love.
“Ryoshū” (Travel Melancholy) was used as the theme song for the fourth entry in the Hissatsu series, “Kurayami Shi To Nin,” and became a major hit in 1974, sung by Midori Nishizaki, who was in her second year of junior high school at the time.
Passionate MamboHiroko Hattori
Latin-flavored songs often appear in the enka scene.
Most singers have released at least one such piece.
Hiroko Hattori is no exception; she has released Latin-style songs, and among them, “Jōnetsu no Mambo” is particularly popular with fans.
As a genre it’s kayōkyoku, with touches of mambo sprinkled throughout.
There’s no kobushi (melismatic ornamentation) at all, and there are many rests, so you can prepare well before the vocal entries.
The range is somewhat wide, but overall it’s a very easy song to sing.
The northern city, HakodateDaisuke Kitagawa
Daisuke Kitagawa has woven a poignant, adult love story set in a port town.
While richly retaining the nostalgic flavor of Showa-era kayōkyoku, this piece features a tenor saxophone that resonates to great effect, creating a gem of a song where wistfulness and warmth blend beautifully.
Scheduled for release in February 2025, the track is set in Hakodate and conveys feelings for a once-beloved partner now separated, expressed with remarkable vocal prowess.
Interweaving evocative depictions of Hakodate—its brick-lined streets and nightscapes—the song brings a heartfelt yearning for someone precious to the fore.
As a mellow, mature enka best savored alone on a quiet night, it leaves a deep and lasting impression.