[Female Singers Edition] The face of New Year’s Eve! Enka singers who appeared on the Kōhaku Uta Gassen

Memories SakeKobayashi Sachiko

Omoidezake

When it comes to female enka singers who appear on the Kōhaku Uta Gassen, many people probably think of Sachiko Kobayashi.

She debuted in 1964 with “Usotsuki Kamome” and had a major breakthrough in 1979 with “Omoide-zake.” Since then, she has continued to reign as a true face of the enka world, including making the NHK Kōhaku Uta Gassen lineup for 21 consecutive years.

Her stages, showcased with lavish and resplendent costumes, are nothing short of breathtaking.

In 2006, she was awarded the Medal with Dark Blue Ribbon, among many other achievements that are hard to overstate.

She’s a singer recommended not only for enka fans but also for anyone who enjoys flamboyant performances.

Life is full of ups and downs.Shimakura Chiyoko

Life is full of ups and downs.

Chiyoko Shimakura, known as the Queen of Enka, made her debut in 1957 with “Kono Yo no Hana” and has long been a leading figure in Japan’s music scene.

In 1987, “Jinsei Iroiro” became a massive hit and is considered by Shimakura herself to be her “second debut” song.

While rooted in enka, she is known for a broad musicality that also incorporates elements of pop and Showa-era kayōkyoku.

She won the Best Vocal Performance award in 1987, and from 1988 she returned to perform on the Kōhaku Uta Gassen, where her singing voice became a beloved New Year’s Eve tradition for many.

She is highly recommended for those with rich life experience or anyone seeking lyrics that resonate emotionally paired with a powerful vocal delivery.

Ah, if (you’re) a man, if (you’re) a manSuizenji Kiyoko

Kiyoko Suizenji “Ah, If You're a Man, If You're a Man” [Song performed at the 22nd NHK Kōhaku Uta Gassen (1971)] (Official Audio)

Kiyoko Suizenji, also known as the “Queen of Enka,” is an enka singer from Kumamoto Prefecture.

She debuted in 1965 and shot to stardom with ‘Namida o Da ita Wataridori’ (The Tearful Migratory Bird).

She went on to produce numerous hits including ‘Sanbyaku Rokujūgo-ho no March’ (The 365-Step March), and achieved the remarkable feat of appearing in NHK’s Kōhaku Uta Gassen for 22 consecutive years.

Suizenji’s vocals possess a universal appeal that transcends the enka genre, characterized by a diverse musicality that incorporates elements of pop and Latin music.

In 1991, she became the first female enka singer to hold a concert at Yokohama Arena.

With a career spanning over 55 years, Suizenji’s songs are perfect for times when you need energy or encouragement.

Sad SakeMisora Hibari

Sad Sake (with spoken lines)

Hibari Misora, a legendary figure who shines in Japan’s popular music world.

She debuted in 1949 at the age of just 12 and went on to produce a string of hits, including “Tokyo Kid” and “Ringo Oiwake.” Her vocal prowess and expressive artistry allowed her to master not only kayōkyoku and enka, but even jazz, continuing to captivate countless fans.

In 1965, she won the Japan Record Award for “Yawara,” and in 1989 she was posthumously awarded the People’s Honor Award, among many other accolades.

From her first stage appearance at age 9 until her passing at 52, Hibari Misora truly reigned as the “Queen of Popular Music.” Her voice remains deeply etched in the hearts of many to this day and is often recalled as one of the most memorable highlights of the NHK Kōhaku Uta Gassen.

Would you like some Noto?Sakamoto Fuyumi

Noto Wa Irankai Ne

Fuyumi Sakamoto is an enka singer from Wakayama Prefecture.

She made her debut in 1987 with “Abare Daiko,” and the following year made her first appearance on the NHK Kouhaku Uta Gassen.

Since then, she has become a New Year’s Eve mainstay, boasting more than 35 appearances.

While rooted in enka, she has also ventured beyond genres into rock and J-pop.

In 2009, her cover of “Mata Kimi ni Koishiteru,” used in a commercial for Sanwa Shurui’s barley shochu iichiko, became a major hit.

With her vocal prowess and expressive power, she continues to captivate many fans.

She is a recommended artist not only for enka lovers but also for anyone who wants to enjoy a wide range of music.

Husband-and-Wife SlopeMiyako Harumi

Husband-and-Wife Slope

Harumi Miyako has reigned as one of Japan’s leading enka singers across the Showa, Heisei, and Reiwa eras.

She made her debut in 1964 with “Komaru no Koto yo,” and the following year shot to stardom with “Anko Tsubaki wa Koi no Hana.” Her powerful yet deeply expressive voice has moved countless listeners and produced numerous hit songs.

In 1975, “Kita no Yado kara” won both the Japan Record Award and the Japan Kayō Award.

Then, with “Osaka Shigure” in 1980, she received the Best Vocal Performance award, achieving an unprecedented triple crown in the history of the Japan Record Awards.

She also appeared in NHK’s Kōhaku Uta Gassen for 20 consecutive years starting in 1965, truly becoming a familiar “face of New Year’s Eve.” She is highly recommended not only for enka fans but also for anyone who wants to experience traditional Japanese singing.

wintering swallowMori Masako

wintering swallow

Masako Mori burst onto the Showa-era enka scene like a comet.

She debuted in 1972 with “Sensei” and, together with her same-year classmates Momoe Yamaguchi and Junko Sakurada, gained popularity as the “Flower Junior High Trio.” In 1973, at age 15, she made her first appearance on the Kouhaku Uta Gassen, setting the record at the time for the youngest female performer—a remarkable achievement.

She went on to cement her status as an enka singer, winning the Best Vocal Performance at the 25th Japan Record Awards for “Ettou Tsubame.” She was famously cherished by Hibari Misora and even received direct vocal guidance from her.

With her clear voice and assured technique, Mori captivated many fans, and her songs continue to be loved today.