Reiwa era mustn't be missed: an enka singer with excellent vocals.
When you hear the term “enka singer,” what kind of performer comes to mind?
You might instantly picture a long-standing veteran who’s been singing for decades, but in recent years, thanks to karaoke TV shows and the like, more young singers have emerged, bringing a fresh sense of fun!
As for musical style, there’s been an increase in easy-to-listen-to songs that lean more toward pop these days.
Of course, there are the accomplished veterans, but with the influence of those programs as well, we’ll introduce talented enka singers who are approachable for all generations.
Give them a listen—you’ll likely feel enka become more familiar and appealing!
- Popular Enka Singers Ranking [2026]
- A Japanese female singer with excellent singing ability; an outstanding vocalist.
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- A male singer with exceptional vocal skills: a powerhouse performer who captivates with volume, technique, and expressiveness.
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- Male singers with great voices: a collection of cool, seductive vocals
- Songs We Want to Listen to and Sing! Masterpieces and Popular Hits of Reiwa-era Enka
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- A lineup of classic hits! Karaoke songs recommended for the yutori generation
- Also great for karaoke with friends! Youthful songs that hype up the Reiwa era
Reiwa is not to be missed either: Enka singers with great vocals (61–70)
Mother-Koi NeonKurokawa Eiji
Enka singer Eiji Kurokawa, from Konan City in Kochi Prefecture.
He started playing the piano in first grade, and by his second year of junior high he had formed a rock band.
After entering the workforce, he apparently worked as a manager for an enka singer—a rather unusual career path, isn’t it? After various twists and turns, he finally made his debut in April 2003.
His greatest appeal is, above all, his rich, mature voice.
He has the deep, seasoned vocals and expressive power you’d expect from enka singers in their 50s or 60s.
Be sure to check him out.
Leave it to me.kuroki chiharu (kuroki shimai)
Chiharu Kuroki is an enka singer from Saito City in Miyazaki Prefecture.
She performs as part of the sister duo Kuroki Sisters.
It seems she studied Japanese dance from a young age, and she took third place in the Kyushu Junior Folk Song Competition.
Her older sister, Mika, was inspired by this and went on to win several folk song competitions.
Chiharu later worked as a model, but in 2010 she debuted as part of the Kuroki Sisters.
One of her biggest attractions is her stable vocal ability.
Both members of the Kuroki Sisters have impressive backgrounds, and their harmonies are breathtaking.
Kawachi Otoko-bushiNakamura Mitsuko
Mitsuko Nakamura, who hails from Higashi-Osaka in Osaka Prefecture, captivates listeners with an emotionally rich voice rooted in Kawachi ondo and rokyoku.
She debuted in 1986 with “Koi no Higo Tsubaki,” and had a major breakthrough with “Kawachi Otoko Bushi” in 1989, which became a staple of enka and karaoke.
She appeared on NHK’s Kōhaku Uta Gassen 15 times from 1992 to 2010.
Her vocal prowess, including the ability to portray multiple roles, is highly regarded.
Having grown up in poverty and making a late-blooming debut at 36, her life experience lends depth to her singing.
With a friendly personality, she has also long served as a TV program host.
She’s a singer you should definitely listen to if you want to rediscover the appeal of enka.
Let’s be happy, okay?Handa Koji
Koji Handa is an enka singer who blends in a rock flavor with a nostalgic Showa-era vibe.
He debuted in 1988 and scored a massive hit with the single “Jeju Air-Port,” which sold over 500,000 copies.
The following year, he won the Best New Artist Award for the first half of the year at the 22nd National Cable Music Awards, among other impressive achievements.
He’s said to have 28 songs related to alcohol, and fans often tell him, “Listening to your songs makes me want to drink.” He’s truly an irresistible artist for those who love a good drink! Even during the pandemic, Handa has treasured his connection with fans.
He’s highly recommended for anyone who wants to enjoy a live stage performance.
Whether you’re into rock or curious about enka, give his music a listen.
Woman of TakayamaŌe Yutaka
Hiroshi Oe is bringing a fresh breeze to the enka world.
Born in 1989 in Kishiwada, Osaka Prefecture, he debuted in 2010 with “Noroma Taisho.” Influenced by Saburo Kitajima, he continues to take on new challenges while preserving the traditions of enka.
In 2018, he formed the unit Kitajima Kyodai with Takeshi Kitayama, expanding his activities through a national tour and performances in Taiwan.
His appeal lies in his deeply emotive singing, and his catchphrase “Osoreirimasu” reflects the sincerity that also contributes to his popularity.
He’s also a hard worker—training in taiko drumming helped him lose weight from 100 kg.
He’s a singer you should definitely listen to if you want to feel a close connection to enka.