June 29, 2026

【CF2-03】Using Enka for Healing

Assistant

(Feb 13, 2024)

Q: With my interest in Enka and my profession as a flutist, I’m thinking of using Enka as a means for general healing as I myself find Enka expressive and uplifting. I’m not a friend of new age healing using non musical sound like gong bath.

A: That sounds like a wonderful idea to use Enka as a means for general healing, especially considering your passion as a flutist and your personal connection to the expressive and uplifting qualities of Enka music. Music has long been recognized as a powerful tool for emotional well-being and healing.

Enka music, with its rich emotional depth and storytelling nature, can provide a cathartic and comforting experience for listeners. By sharing Enka music with others, you can create a space for emotional release, introspection, and connection. The lyrics and melodies of Enka songs often touch on universal themes of love, loss, and resilience, which can resonate with a wide range of listeners and provide solace during challenging times.

As a flutist, you have the opportunity to create beautiful interpretations and arrangements of Enka melodies that can further enhance the healing experience. Your flute playing can add an additional layer of emotional expression and create a soothing, melodic atmosphere for your listeners.

It's wonderful to hear that you have a preference for using musical sound as a means of healing, as opposed to non-musical sound methods like gong baths. Each person resonates with different approaches to healing, and it's important to find what resonates with you personally and aligns with your artistic vision.

By sharing Enka music as a means of general healing, you can touch people's hearts, uplift their spirits, and provide them with a sense of emotional well-being. Your passion for Enka and the healing power of music can have a positive impact on both yourself and those who experience your performances.

Q: Tell me more.

A: Certainly! Here are some additional points to consider when using Enka as a means for general healing:

Emotional Connection: Enka music has a unique ability to evoke deep emotions and create a strong emotional connection with listeners. Its heartfelt lyrics, expressive melodies, and passionate vocal performances can resonate with individuals on a profound level. This emotional connection can be therapeutic and cathartic, allowing listeners to process and release their own emotions.
Nostalgia and Comfort: Enka often carries a sense of nostalgia and longing for the past, which can provide a sense of comfort and familiarity. Many Enka songs evoke memories and experiences that listeners can relate to, offering a form of solace and reassurance. This nostalgic element can help create a healing atmosphere and foster a sense of emotional well-being.
Storytelling and Empathy: Enka songs often tell stories of love, heartbreak, resilience, and the human experience. Through these narratives, listeners can find solace in knowing that others have gone through similar struggles and emotions. Enka's storytelling aspect promotes empathy and understanding, creating a sense of connection and shared humanity.
Cultural Connection: Enka is deeply rooted in Japanese culture and history. By sharing Enka music, you can also foster a sense of cultural connection and appreciation. This can be especially meaningful for individuals who have a connection to Japanese culture or who are interested in exploring different musical traditions. The cross-cultural exchange through music can enhance the healing experience for both you as a performer and your audience.
Personal Interpretation: As a flutist, you have the freedom to bring your unique interpretation and expression to Enka music. Your flute playing can add a personal touch to the melodies, infusing them with your own emotions and musicality. This personal interpretation can create an intimate and engaging experience for listeners, capturing their attention and facilitating a deeper connection with the music.

Remember, the healing power of music is subjective, and different listeners may respond to different genres and styles. By sharing your passion for Enka and using it as a means for general healing, you are offering a valuable and uplifting experience to those who resonate with its expressive qualities.

Q: Point 2 reminds me that as me and my audience are living in Hong Kong, which is undergoing many changes societally. The sense of nostalgia can provide comfort to those who are still missing the city in its earlier state. And Japanese culture is widely appreciated in Hong Kong.

One challenge to introduce Enka is that its singing style might feel old and outdated. But with my flute rendition of Enka songs I can work around this hurdle. When audience get used to the good sides of Enka I can re-introduce the sung version.

A: That's a great point! Given the societal changes happening in Hong Kong, the sense of nostalgia that Enka music offers can indeed provide comfort and solace to those who may be missing the city in its earlier state. Nostalgia has a powerful way of evoking memories and creating a connection to the past, which can be particularly meaningful during periods of change and transition.

Additionally, the appreciation for Japanese culture in Hong Kong can be a favorable factor in introducing Enka music. The cultural connection and familiarity with Japanese traditions can generate interest and curiosity among your audience, making them more receptive to experiencing Enka music.

Regarding the challenge of the perceived old-fashioned singing style of Enka, your idea of using flute renditions of Enka songs is an excellent workaround. By presenting Enka melodies through the flute, you can create a fresh and contemporary interpretation that appeals to a broader audience. Your flute renditions can showcase the beauty and expressiveness of Enka melodies in a way that feels more accessible and relatable to modern listeners.

As your audience becomes accustomed to the flute renditions and discovers the positive aspects and emotional depth of Enka music, it sets the stage for a smooth transition to introducing the sung versions. By gradually reintroducing the sung Enka songs, you can help your audience develop an appreciation for the vocal style and embrace the full spectrum of Enka music.

This gradual approach allows you to bridge the gap between the perceived old-fashioned nature of Enka and the modern audience's preferences, creating an opportunity for them to discover the beauty and emotional power of Enka music in a way that resonates with their contemporary sensibilities.

Overall, your approach of using flute renditions to introduce and familiarize your audience with Enka music is a thoughtful and strategic way to overcome potential hurdles and cultivate an appreciation for this genre. It allows you to create an engaging and accessible entry point for your audience while respecting their existing musical preferences and gradually expanding their musical horizons.

Q: How can I effectively showcase the emotional depth of Enka music through my flute renditions?

A: To effectively showcase the emotional depth of Enka music through your flute renditions, consider the following approaches:

Expressive Interpretation: Focus on bringing out the emotional nuances of the melodies through your flute playing. Pay attention to dynamics, phrasing, and articulation to convey the varying moods and sentiments of the music. Use techniques such as vibrato, breath control, and subtle ornamentation to add depth and expressiveness to your performance.
Tone Color and Timbre: Experiment with different tonal colors and timbres on the flute to capture the essence of Enka music. Adjusting your embouchure, air speed, and articulation can help you produce warm, rich, and expressive tones that evoke the emotional qualities of the genre. Explore the flute's expressive capabilities to convey the specific emotions associated with different Enka songs.
Musical Storytelling: Consider the narrative aspect of Enka songs and aim to tell a story through your flute playing. Identify the key emotional moments or themes within the music and use your interpretation to convey those emotions effectively. Allow your performance to guide the listeners through the emotional journey of the piece, capturing their attention and evoking a strong response.
Connection with Lyrics: Even without singing the lyrics, you can create a connection between the instrumental rendition and the essence of the song's message. Familiarize yourself with the lyrics and their meaning, and try to reflect those emotions and themes through your flute playing. This connection can help listeners understand and appreciate the emotional depth of the music, even without the words being sung.
Performance Presence: Your presence as a performer can greatly enhance the emotional impact of your flute renditions. Engage with the music passionately, allowing your own emotions to shine through your performance. Make eye contact with your audience, convey your own connection to the music, and create a sense of intimacy and shared experience. This can amplify the emotional resonance and captivate your listeners.
Collaborations: Consider collaborating with other musicians or vocalists who are familiar with Enka music. This can add another layer of emotional depth to your flute renditions and create a more authentic representation of Enka. By working together, you can create a more powerful and evocative performance that showcases the emotional depth of Enka music.

Remember that the emotional impact of your flute renditions will be enhanced by your own connection to the music. Allow yourself to be moved by the melodies and convey that emotion through your playing. By immersing yourself in the emotional essence of Enka music, you can effectively communicate its depth and touch the hearts of your audience.

Q: Can you recommend any specific Enka songs that would be particularly effective for showcasing emotional depth?

A: Certainly! Here are a few Enka songs that are known for their emotional depth and would be effective choices for showcasing the genre's emotional range through your flute renditions:

"Sukiyaki" (Ue o Muite Arukou) by Kyu Sakamoto: This iconic Enka song is known for its melancholic and nostalgic tone. It tells a story of longing and heartache, making it a powerful choice for conveying deep emotions through your flute rendition.
"Ai no Sanka" by Hibari Misora: This classic Enka song is filled with passion and intensity. Its lyrics express deep love and devotion, making it an ideal choice for showcasing emotional depth through your flute playing.
"Tsugaru Kaikyo Fuyugeshiki" by Sayuri Ishikawa: This song is a beautiful representation of the Enka genre. It portrays the harsh winter landscape of the Tsugaru Strait region and carries a sense of longing and resilience. Your flute rendition could capture the cold, haunting beauty of the melody.
"Namida Gawa" by Fuyumi Sakamoto: This emotionally charged song explores themes of heartbreak and the pain of lost love. Its powerful lyrics and soulful melody provide ample opportunities to convey deep emotions through your flute interpretation.
"Yozakura Oshichi" by Michiya Mihashi: This hauntingly beautiful Enka song tells the tragic story of Oshichi, a young woman who sacrificed herself for love. The emotional intensity and dramatic storytelling make it a captivating choice to showcase the emotional depth of Enka through your flute renditions.

Remember that these are just a few examples, and there are many more Enka songs with emotional depth that you can explore. Consider listening to various Enka classics and selecting the ones that resonate with you and evoke a strong emotional response. This will help you connect with the music on a deeper level and effectively convey its emotional richness through your flute renditions.

(Feb 18, 2024)

Q: Can you write me a short introduction of Enka for my audience who just listen to mainstream pop music? You can tell more on the singing style. Note that my audience may not know singing.

A1: Certainly! Here's a short introduction to Enka for your audience who primarily listen to mainstream pop music:

"Enka is a captivating genre of traditional Japanese music that offers a unique and emotional musical experience. While your musical preferences may lean towards mainstream pop, Enka presents a wonderful opportunity to explore a different cultural sound. Enka is known for its distinctive singing style, characterized by powerful and heartfelt vocals that evoke deep emotions.

The word 'Enka' translates to 'Japanese ballad,' and it emerged in the early 20th century, gaining popularity in the post-World War II era. Enka songs often revolve around themes of love, loss, nostalgia, and the struggles of everyday life. The lyrics are poetic and express a wide range of emotions, allowing listeners to connect with the songs on a deeply personal level, even if they don't understand the Japanese language.

Enka singers deliver their performances with incredible passion and intensity. The vocal technique emphasizes the use of melisma, where a single syllable is stretched over multiple notes, adding a sense of longing and resonance to the music. The singers often employ a wide vocal range, effortlessly transitioning between powerful and tender moments, creating a captivating dynamic throughout the song.

While Enka may sound different from the pop music you're accustomed to, its ability to convey raw emotions and tell compelling stories makes it a truly captivating genre. So, if you're open to exploring new musical horizons and immersing yourself in the rich cultural heritage of Japan, Enka might just be the perfect genre for you to discover."

A2: Certainly! Here's a short introduction to Enka that you can share with your audience:

"Enka is a unique genre of Japanese music that has a rich cultural history and a distinct singing style. While mainstream pop music often focuses on catchy melodies and upbeat rhythms, Enka takes a different approach, emphasizing heartfelt storytelling and emotional expression.

What sets Enka apart is its vocal style, which is characterized by a deep, resonant voice that conveys a sense of longing and melancholy. Enka singers often use a technique called "kobushi," which involves adding a slight vibrato and subtle changes in pitch to evoke powerful emotions.

Enka songs typically revolve around themes of love, loss, nostalgia, and the struggles of everyday life. The lyrics are deeply poetic and reflect the experiences and sentiments of the Japanese people. In many ways, Enka can be seen as a musical representation of the traditional Japanese concept of "mono no aware," which refers to the bittersweet beauty of impermanence.

Despite the genre's roots in traditional Japanese music, Enka has evolved over time and incorporates elements from Western music as well. It often features a blend of orchestral arrangements and modern instrumentation, creating a unique fusion of traditional and contemporary sounds.

While Enka may be unfamiliar to those primarily exposed to mainstream pop music, it offers a captivating and emotive experience that can transport listeners to a different time and place. So if you're open to exploring new musical territories and appreciate the power of expressive vocals and poignant storytelling, Enka might just be the genre that touches your soul."

Q: Very good! If one wants to listen to Enka for self-healing (mainly from work stress, burnout, mild depression, or dementia), how can they do it effectively?

A: Listening to Enka can indeed be a soothing and therapeutic experience, especially for those seeking self-healing from work stress, burnout, mild depression, or dementia. Here are some tips on how to effectively incorporate Enka into a self-healing practice:

Create a calm and comfortable environment: Find a quiet space where you can relax without distractions. Create a soothing ambiance by dimming the lights, lighting candles, or playing soft instrumental music alongside Enka.
Choose the right songs: Enka offers a wide range of songs with varying emotions. Experiment with different songs and find ones that resonate with your current emotional state. Some Enka songs are uplifting and empowering, while others are more melancholic and introspective. Select songs that align with your desired mood or feelings.
Engage in active listening: When listening to Enka, try to be fully present and engage in active listening. Pay attention to the lyrics, melody, and the emotions conveyed by the singer's voice. Allow yourself to connect with the music on a deep level and let it evoke your emotions.
Reflect and journal: After listening to Enka, take a few moments to reflect on your emotions and thoughts. Consider writing in a journal to express your feelings, insights, or any memories that may have been triggered by the music. This process can help in gaining clarity and releasing pent-up emotions.
Practice relaxation techniques: Combine Enka music with relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, or progressive muscle relaxation. As you listen to the music, focus on your breath or visualize yourself in a peaceful and serene setting. This combination can enhance the healing effects of the music.
Create a regular listening routine: Consistency is key when using Enka for self-healing. Set aside dedicated time in your daily or weekly schedule to listen to Enka and engage in the healing process. Over time, a regular listening routine can contribute to better emotional well-being and provide a sense of solace.

Remember that while Enka can be a valuable tool for self-healing, it's also important to seek professional help if you're experiencing severe depression or mental health issues. Enka can complement therapeutic interventions but should not replace them when necessary.

Q: Interestingly, I was first attracted to Enka by the “kobushi” singing style. I found it highly expressive. Though without the technique and didn’t know Japanese at all, but merely imitating the singing style I felt like I’m projected all my emotions out. While mainstream pop songs could be expressive sometimes, the syncopated rhythm of pop songs just feels “weaker” at expressing something from deep inside.

A: That's wonderful to hear! The expressive nature of the "kobushi" singing style in Enka can indeed be incredibly powerful and cathartic. It's a testament to the emotional depth and authenticity that Enka offers as a genre.

Mainstream pop songs often prioritize catchy melodies and energetic rhythms, which can be enjoyable in their own right. However, the syncopated and often faster-paced nature of pop songs may lend themselves more to a lighter, surface-level expression of emotions.

On the other hand, Enka's slower tempo and emphasis on storytelling and emotional depth allow for a different kind of expression. The "kobushi" technique, with its vibrato and nuanced pitch changes, enables the singer to convey a wide range of emotions in a way that feels raw and heartfelt.

By immersing yourself in the expressive style of Enka, even without understanding the lyrics or having formal training, you're able to tap into a deeper level of emotional release and connection. That's the beauty of music—it transcends language barriers and allows us to express and connect with our emotions on a profound level.

So, continue to explore and enjoy the expressive world of Enka, allowing it to be a source of catharsis and emotional release. Your experience is a testament to the power of music and its ability to touch our souls in unique and profound ways.

Q: What are some other characteristics of Enka music that make it unique compared to other genres?

A: Enka music possesses several distinct characteristics that set it apart from other genres. Here are some notable features that make Enka unique:

Melancholic and emotive storytelling: Enka songs often revolve around themes of love, loss, longing, and the struggles of everyday life. The lyrics are deeply poetic and convey a sense of nostalgia and reflection. The storytelling aspect of Enka is highly emotive, evoking a wide range of emotions in listeners.
Expressive vocal style: The vocal style in Enka is characterized by a deep, resonant voice that conveys intense emotions. Enka singers employ the "kobushi" technique, which includes a slight vibrato, melodic embellishments, and subtle changes in pitch. This expressive singing style adds a layer of emotional depth and authenticity to the music.
Traditional and modern fusion: Enka has evolved over time, blending traditional Japanese musical elements with modern influences. While it retains its traditional roots, Enka incorporates contemporary instrumentation and arrangements, resulting in a unique fusion of traditional and modern sounds.
Orchestral arrangements: Enka songs often feature lush orchestral arrangements, including strings, brass, and woodwind instruments. These arrangements create a rich and immersive musical backdrop that enhances the emotional impact of the lyrics and vocals.
Cultural significance: Enka holds a significant place in Japanese culture and is often associated with historical events and shared experiences. It has been embraced as a cultural symbol and is closely tied to the concept of "mono no aware," which refers to the appreciation of the transient nature of life.
Performance aesthetics: Enka performances are characterized by specific visual aesthetics. Enka singers often wear traditional kimono or elegant attire, and their stage presence and gestures are carefully choreographed to enhance the emotional impact of the music.
Fan participation: Enka has a devoted fan base in Japan, and its performances often encourage audience participation. Fans are known to sing along, clap, and even shed tears during emotionally charged performances, fostering a sense of shared connection and catharsis.

These characteristics collectively contribute to the unique identity of Enka as a genre that celebrates emotional storytelling, cultural heritage, and a deep connection with its audience.

Q: How has Enka evolved over time in terms of its musical elements and themes?

A: Enka has undergone several notable evolutions in terms of its musical elements and themes throughout its history. Here are some key transformations:

Roots in Traditional Japanese Music: Enka traces its roots back to the early 20th century, drawing inspiration from traditional Japanese music genres such as min'yō (folk songs) and ryūkōka (Japanese popular songs). Initially, Enka songs featured a simple musical structure accompanied by traditional instruments like shamisen, koto, and shakuhachi.
Western Influences and Modernization: In the mid-20th century, Enka began incorporating Western musical elements, such as harmonies, orchestral arrangements, and modern instrumentation like electric guitars and keyboards. This fusion of traditional and modern sounds gave Enka a broader appeal and expanded its musical palette.
Post-War Themes and National Identity: In the post-World War II era, Enka became a platform for exploring themes of national identity, resilience, and recovery. Many Enka songs conveyed sentiments of nostalgia for pre-war Japan, longing for loved ones, and the rebuilding of the nation.
Rise of the "Shin-Enka" Style: In the 1960s and 1970s, a new wave of Enka emerged, often referred to as "Shin-Enka" or "new Enka." This style introduced more modern and pop-oriented arrangements, incorporating elements of Western pop music. Shin-Enka expanded the genre's appeal to younger audiences and brought a fresh energy to Enka performances.
Diversification of Themes and Styles: Over time, Enka has diversified its themes beyond traditional love and nostalgia. Enka songs now cover a broader range of topics, including social issues, personal struggles, and contemporary experiences. This expansion has allowed Enka to remain relevant and resonate with a wider audience.
Influence of J-Pop and Contemporary Styles: In recent years, Enka has continued to evolve by incorporating influences from J-Pop (Japanese pop) and contemporary music styles. This fusion has resulted in Enka songs with more upbeat and modern arrangements, appealing to younger listeners while still retaining the core emotional storytelling aspects of the genre.

Overall, Enka has evolved from its traditional roots, embracing Western influences, incorporating modern musical elements, diversifying its themes, and adapting to changing musical tastes. These transformations have enabled Enka to maintain its cultural significance while appealing to a broader audience and remaining relevant in contemporary Japanese music.

(Feb 26, 2024)

Q: How’s the Japanese Kobushi singing used in Enka done technically? I wanna practice it myself and I find that singing style very expressive.

A: Enka is a genre of Japanese music that is characterized by its emotional and expressive singing style. The singing technique used in Enka, often referred to as "Kobushi," plays a crucial role in conveying the deep emotions and sentimental lyrics of the songs.

Here are some key technical aspects of Kobushi singing in Enka:

Vibrato: Vibrato is a prominent feature of Enka singing. It involves a slight and rapid variation in pitch, adding warmth and richness to the voice. The vibrato in Enka is often wide and expressive, but it is important to maintain control and avoid excessive wavering.
Pitch bending: Enka singers often employ pitch bending techniques to add emotional intensity to their performance. This technique involves deliberately sliding between notes, either upward or downward, to create a sense of longing or melancholy.
Vocal dynamics: Enka singing is known for its wide vocal dynamics, ranging from soft and gentle passages to powerful and intense moments. Mastering the control of volume and dynamics is crucial to convey the emotional nuances of the song effectively.
Expressive phrasing: Enka songs are characterized by their expressive and dramatic phrasing. Pay attention to the lyrics and aim to convey the emotions and meaning behind them through your vocal delivery. Focus on using appropriate pauses, breath control, and emphasis on specific words or phrases.
Emotional connection: Enka singing requires a genuine emotional connection to the song. It's important to understand the lyrics, the story they tell, and the emotions they evoke. Practice listening to and analyzing Enka songs to develop a deeper understanding of their themes and sentiments.
Mimicking experienced singers: To learn the Kobushi singing style, it can be helpful to listen to and study performances by experienced Enka singers. Pay attention to their vocal techniques, vibrato control, and emotional expression. Try to imitate their style while adding your own unique interpretation.

Remember that Enka singing is not just about technical proficiency but also about conveying genuine emotions and connecting with the audience. It may take time and practice to develop the necessary skills, so be patient and persistent in your efforts. Consider seeking guidance from a vocal coach or instructor who specializes in Enka singing to provide you with personalized guidance and feedback.

Q: For point 2, why is it that pitch bending can create a sense of longing and melancholy? Is it unique to the enka or any pitch bending will have similar feelings?

A: Pitch bending can create a sense of longing and melancholy in singing because it introduces subtle variations in pitch that evoke emotional responses in the listener. This technique is not unique to Enka and can be found in various other music genres as well. However, in Enka, pitch bending is often used extensively and deliberately to enhance the expressiveness of the songs.

The emotional impact of pitch bending can be attributed to several factors:

Mimicking human vocal expression: Pitch bending in singing can mimic the natural fluctuations of the human voice when expressing intense emotions. It adds a touch of vulnerability and authenticity to the performance, allowing the singer to convey a deeper sense of longing, sadness, or yearning.
Conveying emotional nuances: Pitch bending provides a means to emphasize certain words or phrases, highlighting their emotional significance. By bending the pitch upward or downward on specific notes, the singer can evoke a wide range of emotions, such as sadness, nostalgia, or longing.
Creating tension and release: Pitch bending can create a sense of tension and anticipation in the listener. By bending the pitch away from the expected or resolving note, it creates a musical tension that is eventually resolved when the pitch returns to its original position. This tension and release can intensify the emotional impact of the song.
Cultural associations: In the context of Enka, pitch bending has become strongly associated with the genre's sentimental and nostalgic themes. Over time, listeners have come to expect and appreciate the expressive qualities of pitch bending in Enka songs, further enhancing its emotional impact within the genre.

While pitch bending can evoke longing and melancholy, it's important to note that the emotional impact of music is subjective and can vary from person to person. Different musical techniques and elements work together to create a specific emotional atmosphere, and pitch bending is just one of many tools available to singers to convey emotions in their performances.

Q: I see! So what kinds of themes are being sung in Enka if sense of longing and melancholy are so distinctively highlighted ?

A: Enka songs often explore themes of love, heartbreak, longing, nostalgia, and the bittersweet nature of life. These themes align with the emotional and expressive nature of Enka music, allowing singers to convey deep emotions and sentiments to the listeners. Here are some common themes found in Enka:

Lost love and heartbreak: Enka often delves into the pain and sorrow of lost love, unrequited love, or the longing for a past love. These songs express the emotional turmoil and heartache that come with failed relationships or the inability to be with the person one desires.
Nostalgia and longing for the past: Enka frequently evokes a sense of nostalgia and longing for bygone days. The songs express a yearning for simpler times, cherished memories, or the longing for a place or person from the past. They often reflect on the passage of time and the changes that have occurred.
Separation and distance: Enka explores the emotions associated with separation, whether it be due to physical distance, personal circumstances, or the passing of loved ones. These songs express the pain of being apart, the desire for reunion, and the lingering emotions that come with distance.
Perseverance and resilience: Some Enka songs focus on themes of perseverance, resilience, and overcoming hardships. They convey a sense of inner strength and the determination to carry on despite life's challenges, providing moments of hope and inspiration.
Regional pride and cultural identity: Enka often celebrates local cultures, traditions, and landscapes. Songs may pay homage to specific regions of Japan, expressing pride in one's hometown or highlighting the beauty and uniqueness of a particular place.

It's important to note that while longing and melancholy are prominent emotions in Enka, the genre also encompasses a range of other emotions, including joy, passion, and resilience. Enka's expressive nature allows for a rich exploration of various human experiences and emotions, making it a beloved genre for many listeners in Japan.

Q: I would love to know more on the joy, passion and resilience part as I find singing Enka itself is quite a healing thing to do. The subject matters being sung is very different from mainstream pop songs.

A: Certainly! While Enka is often associated with longing and melancholy, the genre also encompasses songs that express joy, passion, and resilience. These songs provide a sense of upliftment and inspiration to listeners. Here's more about these aspects of Enka:

Joy and celebration: Enka songs that focus on joy and celebration often depict moments of happiness, triumph, or the joy of living. These songs may express the joy of love, the celebration of special occasions, or the appreciation of life's simple pleasures. They can be uplifting and evoke a sense of positivity and happiness.
Passion and intensity: Enka is known for its passionate and intense performances. Some songs highlight intense emotions such as passionate love, desire, or determination. The singers pour their hearts into the performance, delivering powerful vocals and conveying a strong sense of conviction and emotion.
Resilience and inner strength: Enka songs often explore themes of resilience and inner strength in the face of adversity. These songs depict characters who overcome challenges, endure hardships, and find the courage to keep moving forward. They inspire listeners to persevere and find strength within themselves.
Hope and optimism: Enka songs can also convey messages of hope and optimism. They offer reassurance and encouragement, reminding listeners that there is light at the end of the tunnel. These songs provide a sense of comfort and solace, instilling a positive outlook even in difficult times.

Singing Enka can indeed be a healing and therapeutic experience. The emotional depth and expressive nature of Enka allow singers to connect with their own emotions and experiences, offering a cathartic release. Moreover, the reflective and introspective themes in Enka can provide a sense of self-discovery and healing for both the singer and the listeners.

Enka's departure from mainstream pop songs allows for a different kind of musical expression, one that delves into the complexities of human emotions and experiences. It offers a unique opportunity to explore a wide range of feelings, providing a meaningful and fulfilling musical journey for those who engage with the genre.

Q: I find Resilience and Hope that you mentioned are exactly things we modern people need the most. I have the impression that in the past we had much less cases of depressions than it is now in many parts of the world. I wonder if the songs we sing have any influence in keeping people from the past more happy (of course there are many other historical and economical reasons). If Enka have been developed in the 1950s, I think the positive emotions Enka promoted could have positive impact on a post-war Japanese society in need of hope and reconstruction.

A: You make an interesting observation. While the prevalence of depression and mental health issues is influenced by various factors, including societal, cultural, and economic changes, music does have the potential to impact our emotional well-being. In the case of Enka, it's possible that the positive emotions promoted by the genre could have had a positive impact on post-war Japanese society in the 1950s and beyond.

Enka emerged in the post-war era in Japan, a period marked by the aftermath of World War II and the subsequent need for reconstruction and healing. During this time, Enka provided a form of artistic expression that resonated with the experiences and emotions of the Japanese people. The themes of resilience, hope, and perseverance often found in Enka songs could have served as a source of comfort and inspiration for individuals facing challenges and seeking solace.

Music, including Enka, has the power to evoke emotions, create a sense of community, and offer a form of catharsis. It can serve as a way for individuals to connect with their own feelings and find solace in shared experiences. Enka's emphasis on themes of resilience and hope may have provided a sense of optimism and strength to listeners, fostering a collective spirit of perseverance and helping individuals cope with the difficulties of the time.

It's important to note that the impact of music on mental health and well-being can vary from person to person. While Enka may have had a positive influence on the emotional state of individuals in post-war Japan, many other factors, such as social and economic conditions, also played a significant role in shaping the overall well-being of the population.

In any case, music, including genres like Enka, continues to have the power to evoke emotions and provide solace in challenging times. It can serve as a form of expression, connection, and inspiration, reminding us of our shared humanity and offering a source of comfort and hope.

(Mar 5, 2024)

Q: I often heard sounds like アソウレソウレ or アンコ in Japanese Enka. Do they have meanings or are just general sounds to create a happy mood?

A: Those sounds you mentioned are non-lexical vocables used in Japanese enka music. They don't have literal meanings, but are more like musical tones or embellishments used to create emotion.

Specifically:

アソウレソウレ (asoure sore): This is an onomatopoeic vocalization that conveys a sense of happiness, lightheartedness or joy. It's used kind of like "la la la" in English songs.
アンコ (anko): This is another non-lexical vocalization with no direct translation. It expresses warmth, intimacy or sentimentality. Used similarly to evoke feeling rather than communicate specific meaning.

Both are common in enka, which aims to convey emotions of nostalgia, reminiscence or personal feelings through melody and performance style. The vocalizations help set a mood without being distracting lyrics. So they do have an emotional meaning of creating warmth, intimacy, happiness, etc. but no literal denotative definition in Japanese. They function more like musical ornaments than words.

Q: That's very interesting!! Do you know if any modern pop songs are using such kind of vocalizations to express feelings?

A: Yes, the use of non-lexical vocalizations to express emotion is not limited just to enka music. Many modern Japanese pop songs also incorporate sounds like "anko" or made-up syllables to create mood and feeling.

Some examples:

"Ponponpon" by Kyary Pamyu Pamyu - This song made the "ponponpon" sounds famous. They help set the quirky, upbeat tone.
"Uchiage Hanabi" by DAOKO - Contains a recurring "dokodoko" vocalization that builds the nostalgic, bittersweet mood.
"Nandemonaiya" by RADWIMPS - Features "doko ni mo" vocals that lend intimacy and sentiment to the love song.
"Hikaru Nara" by Goose House - Includes "hikaranara" singing that enhances the wistful, longing atmosphere.
"Kuchizuke Diamond" by YAANDHI - The nonsensical "shuu~ shuu~" sounds here convey joy and silliness.

So while modern pop lyrics may be in standard Japanese, artists still utilize non-lexical tones or syllables as musical techniques to set tone and directly tap into emotion without words. It's become a common style of Japanese pop vocalizing beyond just enka or traditional styles. The sounds help color the feeling of the song.

(Mar 7, 2024)

Q: Are there other Enka that have similar non-lexical words like アソウレソウレ and アンコ. For example, in the song 東京五輪音頭 I've heard a few of these words.

A: Yes, there are some other common non-lexical vocalizations used in enka music besides アソウレソウレ and アンコ:

サラサラ - Expresses lighthearted joy or excitement. Often used when talk-singing parts of songs.
ドキドキ - Conveys a sense of anticipation, nervousness or beating heart emotion.
ヨーイショー - A celebratory exclamation without meaning, used when cheering someone on.
ナーン - A warm, intimate sound to add tenderness without words.
アッと - Used like "ahh" in English, but to denote happiness, comfort, satisfaction.
オーイショー - Similar to ヨーイショー but less forceful, for mild upbeat moments.
ウッと - A happy sigh or exhalation sound, conveying pleasant feelings.

The ones you mentioned in "Tokyo Olympic Ondo" are likely classics like:

アソウレソウレ - For joyous, festive parts as it celebrates the Olympics.
アンコ - To add sentimentality and intimacy when remembering comrades or glory days.

So enka vocals frequently incorporate these melodic non-lexical tones and syllables to musicalize emotions without expressing actual language. They're a defining part of the genre's style and ability to convey feeling.

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