The Sound of Okinawan Folk

"The Sound of Okinawan Folk" is a laid-back dive into the unique musical traditions of Japan's southernmost islands. This playlist brings together a wide range of classic and contemporary takes on Okinawan folk—also known as min'yō. From the rhythmic energy of eisa drumming in tracks like "Shichi Guachi Eisa Machikanti" by Rinken Band and "七月エイサー (沖縄)" by Sadao China and Seibun Tokuhara, to the soulful balladry of songs like Rimi Natsukawa’s "涙そうそう" and Chitose Hajime’s "ワダツミの木", it highlights how the genre continues to evolve while staying rooted in traditional melodies and the sanshin's distinct timbre.

You’ll also find well-known Okinawan standards like "てぃんさぐぬ花", covered by artists including Ayano Uema and RYUKYUDISKO & Emi Tawata, alongside deeper cuts from legends like Genji Kuniyoshi, Seijin Noborikawa, and Rinsho Kadekaru. With newer sounds from acts like Yanawaraba, Ryukyu Underground, and kariyushi58 mixed in, the playlist offers a steady flow of traditional sounds, modern fusions, and island vibes.