Enka Singers Most Popular at Karaoke [2025]

You don't have to go back.Aya Shimazu64rank/position

Is It Okay If I Don’t Go Home?

This song was released in 2004 as Aya Shimazu’s 36th single.

The title “Kairanchayoka” means “You don’t have to come home” in the Kumamoto dialect, and the lyrics are written entirely in that dialect.

It originated as a song called “Ikitarayoka,” written and composed in 1995 by folk singer Hideki Sekijima, inspired by his own parents.

Battan Arakawa later recorded it under the changed title “Kairanchayoka.” There is an anecdote that Aya Shimazu liked the song so much that she asked for permission to sing it.

A Doll's HouseMieko Hirota65rank/position

A Doll's House

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?

freezing rainMika Hino66rank/position

Mika Hino Cold Rain

This song is a quintessential example of enka, where a catchy melody and emotionally rich lyrics blend beautifully.

Released in December 1982, it remains beloved by many as one of Mika Hino’s signature numbers.

The lyrics, which intertwine the chill of winter rain with the pain of heartbreak, portray a universal theme that anyone can relate to.

Hino, renowned for her vocal prowess, conveys the aching heart of a forlorn love with remarkable expressiveness.

With its relaxed tempo and relatively modest melodic shifts, it’s a song that even beginners to enka will find approachable.

Why not sing it slowly, savoring the lyrics that resonate so deeply?

Unrequited LoveHiroko Hattori67rank/position

[MV] Hiroko Hattori / Kurenai Jōwa (Full Ver.)

Hiroko Hattori’s classic “Kurenai Jōwa” is striking for its gently unfolding opening.

At first, you might find it sultry, but once the chorus begins, an unexpectedly grand and moving melody spreads out.

Because of this, the song calls for a wide range of expression, yet fortunately it contains very few complex elements.

Even the use of kobushi ornamentation is among the least in Hattori’s repertoire, so even those who struggle with enka should be able to sing it without trouble.

Consider adding it to your repertoire.

The Last DrinkTohji Kimura68rank/position

Tetsuji Kimura “Last Drink” MUSIC VIDEO

A song by Tetsuji Kimura that brings a sweet, heartrending farewell vividly to life.

With a soda-and-barley drink before them, the lyrics capture the aching emotions of two people who have resolved to part.

Kimura’s powerful vocals convey both the sorrow and the beauty of goodbye, resonating deeply with listeners.

Released in February 2024 and winner of the 65th Japan Record Awards New Artist Award, this track fully showcases Kimura’s talent.

Written by his older brother, Ryuzo Kimura, it’s a wonderful piece that also reflects the brothers’ bond.

It’s a song we especially recommend to anyone feeling the fragility of love or the pain of parting.

king (shogi piece)Hideo Murata69rank/position

king (shogi piece)

A quintessential classic of the Showa era, this song powerfully portrays a man’s pride and poignant loneliness.

Using a shogi grandmaster as its motif, it movingly depicts a man who refuses to abandon his dreams despite a life of poverty, as well as his gratitude toward his beloved wife.

Released in November 1961, it became an instant smash after Hideo Murata performed it on that year’s NHK Kohaku Uta Gassen.

The following year, it was chosen as the theme song for a film of the same name, ultimately selling over three million copies.

Marked by its distinctive waltz (3/4) rhythm, the chorus is meant to be sung with powerful conviction.

It’s a perfect choice not only for shogi fans, but also for anyone striving toward their dreams or wishing to sing with heartfelt thanks to someone dear.

Yugiri PortKonomi Mori70rank/position

Konomi Mori “Yugiri Port” Music Video

Set in a fog-shrouded port town, a heart-wrenching love song has been born.

It’s a deeply crafted piece released by Konomi Mori in July 2024.

Drawing on the unique vocal power she honed through folk music, she vividly conveys both the misty harbor scenery and the protagonist’s emotions.

The song is said to be inspired by Kojohama in Shiraoi, Hokkaido: lyrics penned by Akino Madoka, moved by the sight of a landscape wrapped in fog, paired with a poignant melody composed by Chiaki Oka.

Mori shares behind-the-scenes stories on her blog, and the release has been creating buzz among fans.

It’s the kind of song you’ll want to play when you’re thinking of someone dear, or to listen to alone on a quiet night.