Popular Enka Singers Ranking [2026]

marine snowjero64rank/position

Jero – Sea Snow (Music Video)

This is a landmark song by Jero, who made a sensational debut in 2008.

With lyrics by Yasushi Akimoto and music by Ryudo Uzaki, it not only became a huge hit but also set various records as an enka song, making it a masterpiece that will go down in Japanese music history.

Beyond the difficulty of a melody that spans a wide vocal range, the song itself is highly intricate—blending enka elements with straightforward, J-pop-style developments and funky rhythms—yet Jero delivers a flawless performance that really underscores the power of his vocals.

The track has been popular at karaoke since its release, but to be honest, it’s a very challenging song to sing there.

Listen to the original repeatedly and practice until the rhythm and melody are ingrained in your body!

ancient castleMitsubishi Michiya65rank/position

Mitsuhashi Michiya [Kojo (Old Castle)]

When it comes to timeless, melancholy Japanese classics, this song is the first that comes to mind.

Its lyrical poetry and rich melody blend beautifully, stirring the listener’s heart.

Through the image of a decayed castle, it poignantly sings of lost glory and nostalgia for bygone days—truly the essence of enka.

Since its 1959 release, it has remained beloved by many and is a karaoke staple.

Yet its difficulty is well known: Mihashi’s distinctive vocal timbre and expressive power, along with the wide-ranging melody, put any singer to the test.

Even so, it’s a song I especially hope those with a wealth of life experience will try.

Person Sought in the NorthNakazawa Takuya66rank/position

Takuya Nakazawa “The Person I Seek in the North” MUSIC VIDEO

Here’s a song that truly conveys Takuya Nakazawa’s charm.

Within its light, easy-listening enka style, his passionate yet gentle vocals leave a strong impression.

It tells the story of a man who travels to the northern country in search of an unforgettable woman, sung over a melody that lingers in the heart.

Released in January 2020, the track drew attention as a new step following his previous work, “Akane-iro no Koi.” Though it has a light enka feel, Nakazawa’s expansive vocals shine throughout.

It’s approachable even for enka beginners and comes recommended as a song you’ll want to sing at karaoke.

freezing rainKayama Akio67rank/position

Hiyusame by Akio Kayama

A signature work by Akio Kayama that poignantly sings of the heartache of unrequited love through the figure of a woman enjoying a solitary drink at a bar.

This classic captivates many fans with its bittersweet vocals and richly expressive delivery.

Released in 1977 as his debut single, it has gradually seeped into people’s hearts over time.

In 1983, it won the Long-Seller Award at the Japan Record Awards and is highly regarded as a beloved song of the Showa era.

With a light, folk-tinged melody, the key is to value rhythm and hold back overt power, emphasizing restrained emotion over force.

For karaoke, try singing up to the chorus as if speaking to the listener, and have fun by getting friends to handle the tricky parts.

Moon of lingering coldKitada Emi68rank/position

Emi Kitada “Moon of the Late Cold” MUSIC VIDEO

Emi Kitada is a talented singer who also raises Miyazaki cattle as an agricultural woman.

Her first single after moving to Nippon Crown is “Yokan no Tsuki.” This work is a passionate enka-style song that layers unresolved feelings for a past love onto the still-chilly moon of late winter.

Her understated, narrative-like delivery is breathtaking, drawing you into its world before you realize it.

It’s perfect for a night when you want to savor the subtleties of mature romance in a gentle, reflective mood.

Hydrangea BridgeJōnouchi Sanae69rank/position

Hydrangea Bridge

Speaking of classic enka songs that poignantly sing of the rainy season, this is the piece that catapulted Sanae Jōnouchi to stardom.

Released in June 1986, it features memorable, heartrending lyrics that overlay hydrangeas blooming on a bridge with memories of a lost love.

The lyrics depicting the scenes of the rainy season and the gentle yet sorrowful melody deeply resonate.

As her debut single, frequently featured on television and radio, this work became the foundation of Jōnouchi’s career.

It’s not exactly easy to sing despite appearances, but because the melodic range is relatively narrow and parts of the tune lean toward pop, it’s a great challenge for beginners to enka as well.

I long for Southern HokkaidoKoyama Yudai70rank/position

The 66th Shining! Japan Record Awards Newcomer Award | Yudai Koyama “Donan Koishiya” Music Video (Full Ver.)

How about an inspiring number that stirs a burning longing for your hometown? It’s the debut single by Yudai Koyama, known as the “Magic Voice,” released in April 2024.

The song powerfully celebrates the landscapes of his hometown—such as Noboribetsu and Esashi—and the bonds with family.

Close your eyes and you can picture the Sea of Japan and snowy scenes that awaken a deep nostalgia in listeners.

Sing it at karaoke with friends who share that love for home, and it’s sure to resonate deeply in everyone’s hearts.