[2026] A Collection of Masterpieces of Enka and Mood Kayō
Enka and mood kayō are often lumped together, but strictly speaking, they’re sometimes treated as different genres, and it’s hard to draw a clear line between them.
There are cases where singers who are active mainly in the enka field perform classic mood kayō songs, and some argue that “mood kayō” is a subgenre within enka.
This time, we’ve compiled standout songs by singers who perform both enka and mood kayō—tracks that fans of either style can enjoy.
We hope young music fans interested in Shōwa-era kayōkyoku will also dive in and enjoy the enchanting world of enka and mood kayō!
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[2026] Collection of Masterpieces of Enka and Mood Kayō (21–30)
Tokyo Rainy BlueMiki Yukari
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
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.
[2026] Compilation of Classic Enka and Mood Kayō Songs (31–40)
unconditional loveMori Shinichi
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.
Red full moonMori Konomi
An ambitious work by Konomi Mori that welcomed hitmaker Makoto Sugimoto as composer, breaking through her previous image and opening up a new frontier.
This single was released in July 2025.
Right after its release in July, it created a major buzz, even reaching No.
1 on the cable Enka/Kayōkyoku chart.
The fusion of a dramatic, Showa-tinged emotional melody with a sophisticated sound is truly striking! The lyrics, which portray the purity and poignancy of a protagonist who resolves to live for love despite knowing it’s a forbidden romance, are also deeply gripping.
It’s perfect for a night when you want to immerse yourself in a mature love story—take your time and listen.
selfish womanAoyama Shin
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.
Tipsy Breeze TavernNakamura Yuito
There are nights when your heart feels a little weary from the daily hustle and bustle.
This is something that will gently be by your side on those days.
It’s the debut work of Yuito Nakamura, released in June 2025.
Listening to it, you can feel the warmth of a bar where people huddle close and talk, and a quiet energy for tomorrow starts to well up.
The pop, refreshing sound also gives you a sensation of lightness.
Highly recommended if you want to end your day wrapped in a gentle mood.
No way!/Not a chance!Jinno Mika
This work features a warm, comforting vocal that stays close to the heart.
It’s a single by Mika Shinno—renowned as a powerhouse in the enka world—set for release in May 2025, blending enka’s traditions with a modern arrangement.
The lyrics directly portray a man’s way of life, harmonizing beautifully with her powerful singing.
It’s a song not only for enka fans, but also for those standing at a crossroads in life or feeling emotionally shaken.