[2026] Enka and Kayōkyoku Singers from Overseas

music writerKOH-1
Started working as a music writer as a side job while employed at a record shop, and for over 18 years I’ve contributed to music magazines, disc guide books, mooks, and web media. As a writer my main field is Western music, but as a listener for over 35 years, I always try to keep my curiosity alive with the motto “I like what I like.” I have experience playing in bands, where I was a bassist who handled songwriting and composition. Instruments I’ve played include bass, guitar, and piano. I began studying English in my mid-40s and continue to do so today.

The genres of enka and kayōkyoku have a distinctly Japanese ring to them, and there are many masterpieces that sing of quintessential Japanese sentiment, romantic twists and turns, and vivid scene-setting.

That’s why it feels so fresh when singers from overseas perform enka or kayōkyoku in Japanese.

Many people probably remember the shock when Jero, who debuted in the 2000s with a B-boy style look, delivered flawless enka vocals.

But in fact, Japanese enka and kayōkyoku sung by foreigners have existed since the Showa era.

In this article, we’ve compiled a list of foreign singers who perform enka and kayōkyoku in Japanese.

If you’re a younger listener interested in Showa-era pop, be sure to check it out!

[2026] Foreign Enka and Kayōkyoku Singers (11–20)

The crimson moon at twilightJudi Ongu

Red Moon at Twilight / Judy Ong

The crimson moon at twilightJudi Ongu

Judy Ongg, who hails from Taiwan and debuted in 1966, has masterfully performed Japanese enka and kayōkyoku, captivating many listeners.

Her appeal lies in a unique style that blends the emotive expressiveness of enka with the lightness of pop.

In 1979, she won the Japan Record Award for Best Vocal Performance, a testament to her widely recognized talent.

Her songs convey an exotic atmosphere while skillfully expressing Japanese sentiments, making them recommended not only for fans of enka and kayōkyoku but also for those interested in cross-cultural exchange.

Her voice conveys the allure of music that transcends borders.

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In conclusion

In today’s world, where the internet is so advanced, it may no longer be unusual for singers from overseas to perform in Japanese. The wonderful artists introduced here are beloved not for their novelty, but for their individual charm, vocal prowess, and the quality of their music. Some recordings aren’t available on streaming services, so be sure to look for them at record shops and the like!