A roundup of leading female enka singers representing the Showa era

While the origins of enka are said to date back to the Meiji era, the form of “enka” most people imagine is believed to have been established around the late 1960s.

Today, many singers who are categorized as enka performers incorporate a variety of genres and are active across the music scene—some even enjoy idol-level popularity.

This article compiles the representative female enka singers who colored the Showa era—artists indispensable to any discussion of the enduringly popular genre of enka.

From those who have already passed on to those still performing actively in the Reiwa era, take this opportunity to learn about the histories of these great songstresses.

By the way, we’ve rounded up male singers in another article, so be sure to check that out as well!