[2026] A Collection of Masterpieces of Enka and Mood Kayō

airportTeresa Ten

Kuukou

It’s a classic by Teresa Teng, known as the Diva of Asia.

Though it’s a poignant ballad about parting with a loved one, it’s rich with the essence of mood kayō (Japanese popular ballads).

Released in July 1974, this song marked a major turning point in Teresa Teng’s music career in Japan.

It sold over 800,000 copies in total and won the New Artist Award at the 16th Japan Record Awards.

Centered on a farewell at a rainy airport, its lyrics and melody vividly evoke the scene and resonate with many listeners.

It’s a song that gives you the courage to overcome the sorrow of parting and take a new step forward.

Silver Butterfly Migratory BirdKaji Meiko

Silver Butterfly: Migratory Bird (from the Toei film "Silver Butterfly: Migratory Bird")

Released as the theme song for Toei’s 1972 yakuza film, this piece also serves as the title track of Meiko Kaji’s debut album.

Blending pop, enka, and psychedelic rock, it embodies a cinematic 1970s groove, with a melodic tune and emotionally rich lyrics that resonate deeply.

The lyrics and melody, closely tied to the film’s worldview, enhance the atmosphere of the entire work.

Coupled with Meiko Kaji’s powerful vocals, it vividly portrays a woman’s strength and inner turmoil as she faces heartbreak and life’s hardships.

If you’re a young music fan interested in Showa-era kayōkyoku, this is definitely worth a listen.

Yanagase BluesMikawa Ken’ichi

Yanagase Blues

Known as a quintessential mood kayō number, this song is the masterpiece that defined Kenichi Mikawa’s career.

Released by Nippon Crown in April 1966, it is set in the Yanagase shopping district of Gifu City, Gifu Prefecture, and portrays the pain and melancholy of heartbreak.

The lyrics by Hideo Usa symbolically express the sorrow of lost love through the image of crying in the night under the rain, deeply resonating with listeners.

The song was a major hit and became so popular that a film of the same title was produced in 1967.

It’s recommended not only for fans of enka and mood kayō, but also for younger music listeners interested in Shōwa-era pop.

I liked it.Tsuruta Koji

I liked it.

The work I’m introducing this time is a bittersweet love ballad sung by Koji Tsuruta, renowned as a leading actor of the Showa era.

The lyrics, which dwell on regret and lingering feelings for a former lover, vividly portray a man’s clumsy way of expressing love.

Released in 1956, the song is characterized by Tsuruta’s sweet vocals and a wistful melody.

The B-side of the single features “Machi no Sandwich Man,” and the release includes a total of four tracks, including karaoke versions.

Reissued in 1993, this piece is also recommended for younger music fans interested in Showa-era kayōkyoku.

It’s the perfect song for those troubled by love or in the mood to reflect on memories with someone special.

Woman of the port townhayabusa

Hayabusa “Port Town Woman” (Official Audio)

This song, with its mood-kayō taste that conjures up scenes of a port town, is included on the album “Original Best 2026,” celebrating the 15th anniversary of the debut of the vocal group Hayabusa.

Released in February 2026, it’s also known for the episode that senior singer Yutaka Yamakawa had handed them a demo more than 13 years earlier.

Its appeal lies in a worldview where the scenery shifts as if traveling from north to south, and in the contrast of the members’ voices.

Take your time and immerse yourself in this mature kayōkyoku.

Wind God and Thunder GodKimura Tetsuji

Tetsuji Kimura “Fujin Raijin” MUSIC VIDEO

It’s a work whose unwavering will—“the resolve to set sail toward rough seas”—pierces straight through.

The song is by Tetsuji Kimura and was released in February 2026.

Produced by his older brother, Ryuzo Kimura, this release came in two versions with different B-sides.

Deified motifs, a robust sound, and an overwhelming iron voice leave a strong impression.

It feels as if powerful emotions welling up from the pit of the stomach are carried by that forceful sound.

If you’re someone taking on challenges in everyday life, it’s sure to move you.

cowardSazankurosu

Southern Cross “Coward” [Mood Kayō] (Official Audio)

Known as a classic mood kayō song about tragic love, this piece captures a woman’s deep affection and aching emotions.

Paired with Yutaka Kanno’s distinctive vocal timbre, the lyrics reach straight into the listener’s heart.

Released in January 1976, it has been included on many best-of albums as a signature song of Yūji Mori and Southern Cross—for example, the Complete Collection: Ashidematoi ~ Ikijinashi, released on December 16, 1991.

It’s recommended for those who want to heal the pain of a broken heart or who harbor a bittersweet longing for love.

Take your time to savor the complex emotions woven into the lyrics.