[2026] Enka singer from Kyushu
When you become a fan of a particular artist or band, many people naturally start to wonder where the singer or members are from.
If they happen to be from the same place as you, it somehow makes you feel a little happy.
With that in mind, this time I’ve put together an article themed around enka singers from Kyushu.
Speaking of singers from Kyushu, even just looking at Fukuoka Prefecture, it has produced many well-known musicians such as Yosui Inoue, Seiko Matsuda, Hiromi Go, Ayumi Hamasaki, Ringo Sheena, and Masamune Kusano of Spitz.
But what about enka singers—who are they? If you’re curious, be sure to check out the article!
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[2026] Enka Singers from Kyushu (1–10)
The Life of Mutsu (Including “A Thousand Ryō of Guts”)Murata Hideo
Hideo Murata, a native of Ukiha District in Fukuoka Prefecture, was a singer who had a major impact on the postwar popular music scene with his unique style that fused rokyoku narrative singing and kayō popular song.
A song he released in 1961 became a massive hit, marking the first million-seller in Japan after the war.
He continued to produce numerous hits and received the Special Award at the 4th Japan Record Awards in 1962.
Even past the age of 60, his popularity showed no signs of fading, and he drew attention during the karaoke boom of the 1970s as well.
While preserving the lyricism of rokyoku, Murata brought a fresh breeze to kayōkyoku and enka; his songs, rich in narrative quality and emotional depth, have the power to profoundly move listeners.
As a singer representative of the Showa-era music world, Murata’s works continue to be loved across generations, and they come highly recommended for fans of enka.
Woman’s DepartureMatsubara Nobue
Nobue Matsubara, a native of Fukuoka Prefecture, is an enka singer who made her debut in 1977 with the single “Minato-machi Blues.” In the 1980s, she shot to fame with “Harumachi Shigure,” winning the hearts of many fans.
Specializing in enka and kayōkyoku, she has produced numerous songs that resonate with listeners through emotive lyrics and melodies.
She has received many awards, including the Japan Kayō Awards and the Enka Awards, cementing her status in the enka world.
Matsubara’s singing continues to captivate many with its profound vocal ability and expressiveness.
Her concerts and live shows are notable for a style that unites performers and audience in shared emotion.
She is recommended not only for enka enthusiasts but also for anyone who enjoys moving vocals and life-affirming musical dramas.
Song of IppondokkoSuizenji Kiyoko
More than half a century has passed since the illustrious singer Kiyoko Suizenji made her debut in 1965.
Hailing from Kumamoto in Kyushu, she has continued to thrive in the realms of enka and kayōkyoku, while her broad musicality—incorporating elements of pop and Latin—adds to her appeal.
She shot to stardom with her debut single, “Namida o Da ita Wataridori” (A Migratory Bird Embracing Tears), and is also known for signature songs such as “Sanbyaku Rokujūgo Ho no Māchi” (The 365-Step March).
She achieved the remarkable feat of appearing in the Kōhaku Uta Gassen for 22 consecutive years and is famous for having served as host four times.
In 2020, she marked the 55th anniversary of her debut and continues to be active with undiminished energy.
Beyond her career as a singer, Suizenji is also an actress.
Beloved by people of all ages, she truly deserves to be called a national icon.
[2026] Enka Singers from Kyushu (11–20)
Love Song of Okikatsuki Nana
Nana Katsuki, known as an enka singer from Fukuoka Prefecture, continues to captivate many fans with a voice that resonates deeply and lyrics rich in regional flavor.
Since her debut in 2002 with “Sugi” (Cedar), she has produced a string of hits such as “Oki no Koiuta” (Love Song of Oki) and “Temaribana.” She has earned high acclaim in the fields of enka and kayōkyoku, winning numerous music awards for her beautiful melodies and lyrics.
Songs themed around her hometown and works that celebrate local festivals are especially popular.
In a track released in 2009, her evocative lyrics—intertwined with the landscapes of her native Fukuoka and the Oki Islands—stirred a deep sense of nostalgia in listeners.
She is a singer highly recommended for those who cherish Japanese scenery and culture.
Attachment StationOgawa Misuzu
Misuzu Ogawa, from Kitakyushu in Fukuoka Prefecture, is a singer active in the enka and kayōkyoku genres who debuted in 2020.
Her debut song, “Nandeyanen,” is a kayōkyoku number about heartbreak set in Osaka, composed by Keisuke Hama with lyrics by Shohei Mozu, and her distinctive vocal tone received high praise.
Ogawa’s music centers on enka and kayōkyoku, characterized by wistful melodies and lyrics that resonate emotionally.
Many of her songs are built on a triplet rhythm, and her expressive delivery that deeply moves listeners is a key attraction.
“Aichaku-eki,” released in January 2023, drew attention as a kayōkyoku song brimming with melancholy.
She also has many songs related to Kitakyushu, reflecting her affection for her hometown.
She’s recommended not only for fans of enka and kayōkyoku, but also for those who want to follow the growth of a young artist.
Sentiments of a Journey to WuxiOgata Daisaku
Daisaku Ogata is an enka singer from Shime Town, Kasuya District, Fukuoka Prefecture.
He made his debut in 1981 with “Shiawase Namida-iro” and had a breakthrough with “Wuxi Ryojo,” released in September 1986.
The song became a major hit, selling about 486,000 copies on the Oricon charts, and he made his first appearance at the 38th NHK Kohaku Uta Gassen the following year.
In 1988, he won the Planning Award at the 30th Japan Record Awards for “Keiten Aijin: Bakumatsu Youth Graffiti.” While rooted in enka, his flexible musical style incorporates pop and contemporary elements, which is part of his appeal.
He is also known for his talents as a motocross racer.
Based in his hometown of Fukuoka, he continues to perform at concerts and events nationwide, valuing close connections with his fans.
He is recommended not only for enka enthusiasts but also for those interested in artists with diverse activities.
soft, blessed rainShimazu Etsuko
Etsuko Shimazu from Minamiosumi, Kimotsuki District, Kagoshima Prefecture, is a highly accomplished enka singer who has been active for many years since the 1980s.
She has released numerous hit songs, including Jiu (“Merciful Rain”), Asanogawa Shunju (“Asanogawa: Spring and Autumn”), and Kanazawa no Hi yo Itsumademo (“Kanazawa’s Lights, Forever”).
Shimazu’s vocal prowess is both delicate and powerful, captivating listeners with her richly expressive delivery.
While rooted in enka, her music also features accessible melodies that incorporate elements of pop and folk.
Continuing to evolve, she released an album in 2023 that included new songs.
She is also actively involved in reconstruction support and local events, drawing attention for her social contributions through music.
She is recommended not only for enka fans but for anyone who wants to experience a moving, heartfelt voice.