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!
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Reiwa is not to be missed either: Skilled enka singers (51–60)
Snow, Moon, and Flowerstatsumi yūto
Yuto Tatsumi is an enka singer from Fujiidera City, Osaka Prefecture.
His journey began when he won the Teens Karaoke Contest hosted by Nagara Production in his first year of junior high school, after which he spent his formative years performing street live shows.
He made his enka debut in 2018 with the single “Shitamachi Junjo.” His greatest appeal is, above all, his stable vocal ability.
As his background suggests, he possesses a high level of singing skill, delivering sophisticated kobushi (ornamental vocal turns) in every song.
Red spider lilies bloomKadamatsu Miyuki
Miyuki Kadomatsu is an enka singer from Odawara City, Kanagawa Prefecture.
She reportedly became interested in enka at the age of two, began serious vocal training in junior high school, and passed the audition on Nippon TV’s program “Uta Sta” when she was sixteen.
After that, she spent many years working as a karaoke guide vocalist before finally making her debut in 2019.
You could say she was quite a late bloomer as an enka singer.
Her appeal lies in her wistful singing style—her vocals carry a mature, melancholy depth that’s hard to believe for someone in her thirties.
The Beginning of a WomanAoyama Shin
Shin Aoyama, an enka singer from Urayasu, Chiba Prefecture, made a spectacular debut as the 60th anniversary commemorative artist for Geiei.
His debut catchphrase was “A 19-year-old straight shooter in song!” and even now he continues to produce many classics in a traditional, orthodox style.
Aoyama’s greatest appeal is, above all, his masculine singing.
His voice is powerful and rugged, and combined with his manly delivery, it’s easy to see why many women find themselves captivated.
If you like enka with a strong, forceful vocal style, be sure to check him out.
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.
Reiwa is not to be missed either: Enka singers with great vocals (61–70)
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.