[May 2026] Latest Enka and Kayōkyoku roundup. Check out the buzzworthy new songs!

Blessed Mountains and RiversKurokawa Eiji

Eiji Kurokawa “Shiawase Sanga” MUSIC VIDEO

Enka singer Eiji Kurokawa, a native of Konan City in Kochi Prefecture.

Many of you may know him, as he has also appeared as an actor in shows like the NHK Taiga drama “Kōmyō ga Tsuji” and “Mito Kōmon.” Among his songs, this new track is one I particularly recommend.

Comparing the sorrows and joys of life to grand mountains and rivers, it tenderly depicts the journey of two people walking side by side.

Its warm perspective that affirms small blessings—like a four-and-a-half-mat room life and the glow of alleyway lights—soaks into the heart alongside Kurokawa’s earnest vocals.

Released as a single in February 2026, it is his 18th in total and his first in about three years since the previous release.

On nights when you’d rather savor everyday happiness than chase flashy dreams, you’ll want to listen to it quietly with your partner.

Be sure to check it out.

My Flower -Lien-yuasa michiru

Michiru Yuasa “My Flower -Lien-” Music Video

Michiru Yuasa, a native of Shibata City in Niigata Prefecture, boasts a multifaceted background that includes accolades from NHK Nodo Jiman and certification as a Hot Spring Meister.

Having played piano since the age of four, she studied under Yuhei Hanaoka, honing an expressive artistry that is a hallmark of her appeal.

Now, she revives her roots in a fresh light with “My Flower -Lien-.” This self-cover reimagines her debut single—originally released in April 2020—through a new arrangement and re-recording, and was released in January 2026.

Her resolute, powerful vocals bring even greater vibrancy to the song’s dramatic worldview.

The coupling track features her own composition, “Chidori-ashi Blues,” making this a perfect pick for nights when you want to immerse yourself deeply in the world of song.

Lyrical Ballad of PartingYamazaki Teiji

Teiji Yamazaki / Ballad of Farewell

Teiji Yamazaki is an enka singer with a unique background as a former professional boxer, who also serves as a PR ambassador for Hamada City in Shimane Prefecture.

This work is the commemorative single marking the major milestone of his 30th anniversary as a singer.

While honoring the distinctive storytelling style of enka, it features an arrangement with a hint of blues, powerfully yet poignantly portraying a man’s farewell.

Set against a rainy harbor, the resolve to sever lingering feelings of love overlaps with his rich, rugged vocals.

Released in January 2026, the single also drew attention for a hit-making prayer ceremony held in the rain at Tsubaki Grand Shrine in Mie Prefecture.

The melody, which conveys a forward-looking strength to overcome sorrow, is perfect for moments when you want to take a new step forward.

If you’re looking for a song that feels great to sing at karaoke, be sure to check it out.

I’ll wipe away your tears.Kawakami Ai

[Full MV] Ai Kawakami “I’ll Wipe Your Tears” [Official]

Ai Kawakami is a powerhouse female vocalist who skillfully spans a wide range of genres, from enka to jazz.

Since her debut in 1987, she has persevered through hardships while continuing to perform on stage, and she remains energetically active today, even successfully holding commemorative recitals.

Her single released on January 21, 2026, is “Omae no Namida wa Ore ga Fuku” (“I’ll Wipe Your Tears”).

This work marks her first attempt at a ‘male-perspective song’ in her career, expressing the gentle, understated support of a man for the woman he loves, set to a quietly resonant melody.

Unlike her previous songs from a woman’s point of view, her warm, embracing vocal tone truly sinks into the heart.

It’s a recommended track for anyone who wants to reaffirm the bond with their partner.

Be sure to check it out.

Ah, a solitary journeyIchirō Toba, Yutaka Yamakawa, Tetsuji Kimura

Ichirō Toba, Yutaka Yamakawa, Tetsuji Kimura “Ah, A Solo Journey” Released 2026/1/28

A true powerhouse family unit: the “brother ship” that represents the enka world, Ichiro Toba and Yutaka Yamakawa, now joined by Toba’s second son, Tetsuji Kimura.

Their long-awaited single is Aa Hitori Tabi.

Lyrics, composition, and production are handled by Toba’s eldest son, Ryuzo Kimura, resulting in a robust, powerful enka piece that overlays a man’s solitary journey onto the road of life.

Released as a single in January 2026, its coupling track features a newly recorded version—sung by all three—of Toba’s classic Umi no Nioi no Okaasan, a real treat for longtime fans.

This work sings of gratitude that surfaces within loneliness.

If you want to listen closely while feeling the bonds of family, be sure to check it out.

Tokyo JunctionSHOW-WA

SHOW-WA / Tokyo Junction -Music Video-

SHOW-WA, a group produced by Yasushi Akimoto, has been gaining buzz with the concept of reviving Showa-era kayōkyoku for modern times.

Through live TV performances and steady grassroots events, they’ve been steadily expanding their fan base.

Their track “Tokyo Junction,” released in January 2026 as their major-label third single, is an ambitious work that blends the emotive depth of Showa pop with the sleek drive of contemporary city pop.

It portrays intertwined romances set against a rainy, neon-lit Tokyo night.

Enjoy a sound that’s both nostalgic and refreshingly new.

Flowers and SamuraiMiyama Hiroshi

Hiroshi Miyama “Flower and Samurai” MUSIC VIDEO

Hiroshi Miyama, known for his warm “vitamin voice” and beloved in households as the kendama enka singer, delivers a rock-enka number in this work released in January 2026, singing while playing the drums.

I hear he carried around an electronic drum kit during production to practice extensively.

His performance, powerfully expressing the spirit of the Japanese man, is truly breathtaking.

It’s a highly recommended song for anyone who needs a push forward.