Enka Singers Most Popular at Karaoke [2025]

perchSachiko Kobayashi57rank/position

Tomarigi

Riding the momentum of the smash hit “Omoide-zake,” “Tomarigi,” released in 1980, is Sachiko Kobayashi’s 29th single.

It’s also one of her signature songs, with lyrics and music by Eiji Takino, a prolific creator of many classics.

It’s as popular at karaoke as “Omoide-zake” and “Yuki Tsubaki,” so some of you have probably heard others sing it.

Overall, while the song spans a wide vocal range and has its challenges, the somewhat wistful, melancholic melody line is straightforward, and the chord progression is simple, so you shouldn’t struggle with rhythm or pitch.

I recommend listening closely to the original and studying where Kobayashi uses vibrato and kobushi (ornamental bends).

I won’t let you go tonight.Rumiko Koyanagi & Yukio Hashi58rank/position

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.

Wharf of TransienceKeisuke Yamauchi59rank/position

Keisuke Yamauchi – Wharf of Vicissitudes (Ruten no Hatoba)

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 Yamaguchi60rank/position

Hiromi Yamaguchi “Koitoi Coast” Music Video

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.

Premonition of PartingMiyuki Yamamoto61rank/position

Club Thump / Billy BGM channel

Miyuki Yamamoto, an enka singer, delivers an emotionally rich rendition of Wakare no Yokan, a beautiful melody line that evokes a subtle sense of melancholy.

If your relationship has gone on for a while and you’ve started to neglect things a bit, try singing it in front of him and surprise him.

The original song, familiar in Japan, was released by Teresa Teng in June 1987.

A solitary journey to MichinokuJoji Yamamoto62rank/position

Joji Yamamoto “Michinoku Solo Journey” Music Video (full ver.)

A signature work by Joji Yamamoto whose lyrical lyrics and beautiful melody move the heart.

Depicting a parting and a new journey with a loved one, this piece is a masterpiece that even newcomers to enka can fully appreciate.

Released in August 1980 and selling over one million copies, the song led to Yamamoto’s first appearance at the 32nd NHK Kouhaku Uta Gassen the following year.

Overall, the pitch is relatively low and easy to sing, highlighting the charm of the middle to lower registers.

When attempting it at karaoke, savor the lyrics that evoke the scenery of the Tohoku region and try to convey a world rich with the sentiment of travel.

Kinokawa RiverAkari Yamanishi63rank/position

Akari Yamamoto “Kino River” Official Music Video

A song overflowing with love for one’s hometown, delivered by Akari Yamanishi, an enka singer from Wakayama, resonates deeply with the heart.

Its charm lies in the carefully woven gratitude to her mother and reverence for nature.

The lyrics skillfully capture the delicate ebb and flow of emotions—strength and kindness characteristic of a Kishu woman—drifting like the Kinokawa River, and they are sure to seep into the listener’s soul.

Released in October 2023, this track is a significant work in Yamanishi’s solo career.

When your heart is weary, when you want to remember someone dear, or when you long to return home—this is the gem of a song you should listen to.