Enka’s recent hit songs in 2025: Must-watch popular kayō tracks

Cape Far from HappinessYuki Seguchi

Yuki Seguchi “Cape Far from Happiness” MUSIC VIDEO

A masterful enka ballad that poignantly sings of heartbreak has arrived as Yuki Seguchi’s new release.

The lyrics, which portray the pain of a woman who has reached an inn in the north—interwoven with vivid imagery like the roar of the sea and the glow of fishing fires—resonate deeply with listeners.

The late Ryutaro Kinoshita’s final lyric, set to music by Akihiro Otani and arranged by Tatsuya Nango, blend beautifully, while Seguchi’s vocal prowess further elevates the song’s appeal.

Released in September 2024, the single also includes the coupling track Ashita-gawa.

It’s a soul-stirring piece that stands beside those troubled by love or standing at a crossroads in life.

On the day of farewellJoji Yamamoto

Joji Yamamoto “On the Day We Part” Music Video

A love song by Joji Yamamoto that resonates deep in the heart.

Released in July 2025 as the second single commemorating his 50th anniversary, this work is a cover of a renowned song by Masato Sugimoto.

It is said to be the first time in 43 years that Yamamoto has sung a Sugimoto piece.

It portrays the deep, gentle love of a man who feels gratitude toward the partner who has walked a long road by his side, while contemplating the day when they must inevitably part.

Within its restrained words, you can sense emotions too profound to be fully expressed.

When you want to reaffirm the bond with someone precious, the sincerity of this song’s vocals is sure to be a comforting presence.

A Man's FistTohji Kimura

Tetsuji Kimura “Man’s Fist” MUSIC VIDEO

A powerful enka-style song with a strong message has arrived from Tetsuji Kimura.

Released in July 2024, this work is a tour-de-force written and composed by his brother, Ryuzo Kimura.

Centered on themes of “masculinity” and “indomitable spirit,” it portrays a man who faces adversity head-on.

Presented as part of the single “Midarezaki / Otoko no Kobushi / Hamanasu no Nemuri Uta (Acoustic ver.

),” it skillfully fuses traditional enka with a contemporary sensibility.

It’s a piece that fully showcases the talents of Tetsuji Kimura, a past recipient of the Japan Record Awards New Artist Prize.

For those standing at life’s crossroads or confronting difficulties, this is a song that will offer courage and hope.

Shanshan PeonyNatsuko Godai

Natsuko Godai “Shanshan Peony” Music Video

This is a song that, beneath its dignified beauty, conveys a strong will not to be merely something on display.

Sung by Natsuko Godai, it will be released in July 2025.

It’s a modern Japanese kayō tune where the crisp sounds of koto and tsuzumi resonate pleasantly, beautifully matching a traditional worldview with a rhythmic style.

The protagonist’s spirit seems to come through in every word, and as you listen, you can’t help but straighten your back.

It’s the kind of music that gives you a push when you want to stay true to yourself.

selfish; self-centered; willfulRuka Mochizuki

Ruka Mochizuki “Wagamama” Music Video

This is a song by Ruka Mochizuki, with lyrics and composition by Tetsuya Komuro, bringing a fresh breeze to the enka world.

The bittersweet feelings toward a loved one are portrayed like waves that ebb and flow.

The choice of indirect wording—such as the scene of jumping onto the last train—ironically serves to highlight the protagonist’s sense of helplessness.

Many listeners may find their hearts captured at first listen by this bold, innovative approach.

Not only longtime enka fans, but even those who don’t usually listen to enka, are sure to be drawn into this new sound!

unconditional loveShinichi Mori

unconditional love

Marking the major milestone of the 60th anniversary of his singing career, this is a monumental work written and composed by Shinichi Mori himself.

Hailed as “Reiwa enka,” the piece truly represents the culmination of his career.

With straightforward lyrics and dynamic vocals, it beautifully conveys his deep gratitude to the fans who have supported him for many years.

Released in July 2025 as his 131st single, it fully showcases his signature “Mori-bushi” style.

It’s a masterpiece not only for longtime fans, but also for anyone standing at a turning point in life.

Ura-Namba BluesKei Mizuki

Kei Mizuki “Ura-Namba Blues” Music Video

This is a blues enka by Kei Mizuki that conjures up the bustle and neon of Osaka’s backstreets in Ura-Namba.

Known as a “high-spirited Naniwa girl,” she sings a one-night-only love story.

The lyrics, which even drop the names of modern cocktails, are filled with the regret of not exchanging contact information and the aching feelings of a woman who can’t forget the person she spent just one night with.

If you have an unforgettable love memory, or on a night when you want to sink into a touch of sentimentality, listening to this will surely tighten your chest at the heroine’s endearing earnestness.