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

selfish womanAoyama Shin

Aoyama Arata “Selfish Woman” Music Video

While portraying the sweet yet bittersweet heart of a woman, this ambitious work dives into the world of blues-style kayō.

With his gentle aura, Arata Aoyama explores the themes of lingering attachment and jealousy toward a former lover, expressing the complex emotions of a mature woman.

Lyrics by Koyomi Asa and composition by Hideo Mizumori come together to create a memorable song marked by its distinctive triplet rhythm.

Released as a single in February 2025, the work is available in three versions: TYPE TOKYO, TYPE Youth, and TYPE Starry Sky.

It also features a tie-in with TBS Radio’s “Saturday Morning 6 o’clock: Kinashi no Kai.” The song was unveiled to fans for the first time at a concert held on January 26 of the same year at the Urayasu City Cultural Hall, celebrating the 5th anniversary of Aoyama’s debut.

It’s a must-listen not only for those moved by the end of a romance, but also for anyone eager to discover a new side of enka.

Tokyo Rainy BlueMiki Yukari

Yukari Miki “Tokyo Rainy Blue” MUSIC VIDEO

Yukari Miki is a singer with an impressive husky voice and a background in jazz.

Versatile enough to master everything from kayō rock to ballads, she released this track—her third single—in August 2025.

As if continuing the story of her previous work, “Tokyo Jealousy,” it portrays the heartbreaking turmoil of a woman shaken by the happiness of the person she parted with.

The lyrics are deeply moving, beautifully overlaying the scene of an unexpected rain falling on a street corner with the protagonist’s sorrow.

Let me hear your parting words.Yamamoto Kazue

Let me hear your parting words.

Released in July 2025, this work centers on the end of an office romance—something anyone could experience.

The lyrics, which yearn to put a stop to an ambiguous relationship, are heartbreaking even just to read.

The melancholy sound, featuring a triple meter, further highlights the protagonist’s aching emotions.

It’s an emotionally rich number you’ll want to listen to on nights when past loves come to mind.

acting like a handsome guyYoshi Ikuzo

Ikuzo Yoshi “Pretending to Be a Handsome Guy” [Official] | Full Chorus MV

Ikuzo Yoshi is known for his versatile musicality that extends beyond enka to include even rap.

“Nimaime Kidori” is a single released in September 2025, and a long-awaited work that reunites him with his close ally, composer Makoto Sugimoto, for the first time in 13 years since 2012’s “Sono Mukashi.” It vividly portrays the raw, inescapably human clumsiness and bittersweet sorrow lurking behind a man who puts on airs and tries to look cool.

A masterpiece that conveys the astringency of life, its seasoned vocals resonate deeply in the heart.

Believing in spring…Maki Kotomi

Kotomi Maki “Believing in Spring…” MUSIC VIDEO

Kotomi Maki is an enka singer who captivates many fans with her emotionally rich voice.

Her 44th single was released in September 2025.

Composed by Chiaki Oka, renowned as a master melodist, the song is a bright, accessible piece in a major key.

It is a song about longing for someone you can no longer meet; within the stillness before dawn, the aching resolve to believe in the future resonates deeply, carried by Maki’s gentle, tender vocals.

For those hoping to overcome a painful parting and take a step toward tomorrow, this song will surely offer a quiet, encouraging push.

unconditional loveMori Shinichi

unconditional love

Marking the major milestone of the 60th anniversary of his singing career, this is a monumental work written and composed by Shinichi Mori himself.

Hailed as “Reiwa enka,” the piece truly represents the culmination of his career.

With straightforward lyrics and dynamic vocals, it beautifully conveys his deep gratitude to the fans who have supported him for many years.

Released in July 2025 as his 131st single, it fully showcases his signature “Mori-bushi” style.

It’s a masterpiece not only for longtime fans, but also for anyone standing at a turning point in life.

Ichibangai BluesHama Hiroya

Hama Hiroya “Ichibangai Blues” Music Video

With a voice that blends urban allure and translucence, Hiroya Hama has long brought color to the world of mood kayō (Japanese popular ballads).

Released in August 2025, this song is set in the nighttime city and portrays a secretive love story between a man and a woman.

The subtle signals exchanged in neon-lit entertainment districts, along with the bittersweet frustration and exhilaration of a relationship that must remain hidden, are beautifully conveyed through Hama’s signature, soaring high notes.

Listening to this piece, you’ll likely feel a slightly illicit, intoxicating sweetness—as if you’re peeking into a scene from a drama.