Enka Singers Most Popular at Karaoke [2025]

I love Osaka.Aki Higashi71rank/position

Aki Azuma “I Love Osaka” Music Video — Release Date: April 16, 2025

This song, released in April 2025 as Aki Toa’s major debut single, is a support anthem for the Osaka-Kansai Expo.

Its lyrics convey a straightforward love for the city of Osaka, discovered through the experience of falling in love.

The emotive vocals and warm sound are perfect for brightening up the mood at karaoke! And if everyone sings together, it might create a sense of unity and make the time even more fun.

Spring-anticipating drizzleNobue Matsubara72rank/position

[MV Full Chorus] Nobue Matsubara “Harumachi Shigure” [Official]

This enka classic is a gentle song that waits for the warm arrival of spring.

It was released as a single in July 2022.

The melody perfectly complements the love-themed lyrics crafted by Kazu Tsubasa and others, leaving a strong impression.

The lyrics are easy to remember, and if you get the chance to sing it at karaoke, it will likely fill you with warmth.

It beautifully expresses the sense of comfort that comes after weathering life’s rough seas.

Recommended for those who, while listening to Nobue Matsubara’s expressive singing, want to feel the tender springtime of life.

Midnight ShowerYin Shun Kei73rank/position

Yinshū Katsura — Midnight Shower

Kayō Ginsuku, known for her alluring husky voice, sings the sublime melody of “Midnight Shower,” a stylish piece that feels less like mood enka and more like watching a polished French esprit drama.

If you want to express the coquettish, cute charm of a woman in front of him, this song is perfect.

Life waits for no one.Aiko Moriyama74rank/position

Aiko Moriyama – Life Won’t Wait

Aiko Morikawa is an enka singer from Toyama Prefecture.

Despite her solid vocal abilities, she has produced many catchy songs, so even those not from the Hokuriku region may know her.

Her famous song “Matta Nashi da yo Jinsei wa” features many kobushi (ornamental vocal turns) with a shouted edge, but because most of them descend and the pitch movement in the kobushi stays within three notes, the overall difficulty is on the lower side.

The melody also has the feel of a fight song, giving it a bright tone, so you can expect it to really get the crowd going.

wintering swallowMasako Mori75rank/position

Overwintering Swallow by Masako Mori

Masako Mori’s “Ettō Tsubame” is a classic enka masterpiece that poignantly sings of a woman’s bittersweet heart.

The composer of the song is Yoshihiko Shinohara.

The name might not conjure any particular image, but in fact, that is the real name of Hiroshi Madoka.

Surprisingly, this wonderful masterpiece, “Ettō Tsubame,” was written by Hiroshi Madoka.

Yosare Onna-bushiSachiko Shiina76rank/position

[Music Video] Sachiko Shiina “Yosare Onna-bushi” <Full>

Set against the climate and festivals of the Tsugaru region, a new enka song beautifully portrays the feelings of a woman who keeps waiting for her beloved in her hometown.

Inspired by the folk song “Kuroishi Yosare,” the interwoven scenes of festive bustle and wistful melancholy are deeply moving.

Sachiko Shiina’s powerful yet delicate vocals superbly convey the protagonist’s strong will and aching heart.

Released on February 12, 2025, the song features lyrics by Kanade Hino-ura and composition by Chiaki Oka—both highly accomplished creators.

Its universal themes—such as the anguish of an unfulfilled love and a profound attachment to one’s hometown—resonate with anyone.

Highly recommended for those who find themselves recalling their nostalgic hometown on lonely nights in the city.

Osaka Love DropletKaori Mizumori77rank/position

Kaori Mizumori “Osaka Koishizuku” MV Full Chorus (Release Date: March 18, 2025) [Official]

How about enjoying Kaori Mizumori’s song that marks her 30th debut anniversary? Released in March 2025, this “happy enka” is set in Osaka.

It beautifully tells the story of a woman who overcomes a painful past to find new happiness.

You may be pleasantly surprised by this new side of the queen who has traveled Japan in song across 45 prefectures.

Perform it at karaoke, and its bright melody is sure to delight everyone.

Be sure to add it to your new repertoire.