Popular Enka Singers Ranking [2026]

Freeze my heartTakayama Iwao85rank/position

Freeze My Heart - Iwao Takayama

Kiyoshi Takayama’s “Kokoro Koorasete,” released in 1992, left a significant mark on the enka scene of the Heisei era.

The song was chosen as the theme for the NTV morning serial drama “Shugyoku no Onna,” becoming a hit beloved by a wide range of generations.

Its appeal lies in lyrics that delve deeply into the complexities of relationships with the ones we love.

The pain and inner conflict that lurk within love, as well as the strong will to hold on to it despite everything, resonate profoundly with listeners.

Takayama’s powerful vocals further heighten the song’s emotional impact.

“Kokoro Koorasete” offers empathy and encouragement to those trying to overcome heartbreak and the complexities of love.

It is highly recommended for those who enjoy moving narratives and seek songs that speak to the heart.

Withered Pampas Grass of the Showa Erasakura to ichirō86rank/position

Sakura and Ichiro / Showa Withered Pampas Grass 1974.7 Sakura & Ichiro

A masterpiece among masterpieces by Sakura and Ichirō that brilliantly captures the bittersweet pathos of ordinary people in the Showa era! Released in 1974, the song initially drew little attention, but its popularity soared when it was used as an insert song for the TBS drama “Jikan Desu yo Showa Gannen” starting in October of the same year.

In May 1975, it topped the Oricon singles chart for three consecutive weeks and became a massive hit, selling 1.002 million copies.

The lyrics, depicting a man and woman who, despite poverty and the coldness of society, give their all to survive, resonated with many listeners, while Sakura and Ichirō’s exquisite harmonies deeply touch the heart.

It’s a must-listen not only for enka fans but also for anyone who wants to experience the atmosphere of the Showa era.

The rough waves of womenKimu Yonja87rank/position

Kim Yonja “Woman’s Rough Waves” (Kim Yeon-ja / Woman’s Rough Waves) [MUSIC VIDEO]

Singer Kim Yonja, known for her powerful vocals, has long carried classic songs across Japan and Korea with her exceptional expressiveness and steady singing technique.

The song she released in July 2025 is a compelling life-enka that overlays sound with her own tumultuous life story.

The figure of a protagonist who faces the rough seas of hardship and spurs herself on is conveyed magnificently through a voice that shakes the soul.

When you find yourself at a crossroads in life, this song will surely give you courage.

one-way ticketKitayama Takeshi88rank/position

[MV] Takeshi Kitayama / One-Way Ticket

A deeply moving song that portrays a solitary departure, undertaken with the resolve never to return.

Written and composed by Joji Hara, his powerful yet gentle voice richly conveys both the determination to face a harsh journey and the quiet nostalgia held within.

Released in April 2004 as a debut single, the track achieved the remarkable feat of reaching No.

20 on the Oricon overall chart—at the time, the highest ranking ever for a solo debut by an enka singer.

This solid first step paved the way for later successes, including the acclaimed album “Ippo” (One Step) and “Yume Ichizu,” which was selected as the theme song for the TV drama “Suronin Tsukikage Hyogo.” It is a song that will resonate deeply with anyone standing at a crossroads, ready to venture onto a new path.

White StraitŌtsuki Miyako89rank/position

Miyako Ōtsuki “White Strait”

This is a single released by Miyako Otsuki in 1992, which was used as the theme song for the TBS daytime drama 30 series “Yurusare nu Uta” (“The Unforgiven Song”).

It won the Grand Prize in the Kayōkyoku/Enka category at the 34th Japan Record Awards.

Although it peaked at No.

30 on the Oricon charts, it enjoyed a long run with 40 chart appearances.

It is one of Miyako Otsuki’s signature songs, performed at the 43rd NHK Kōhaku Uta Gassen.

Michinoku Silver Mountain, Tears of Snowyamaguchi hiromi90rank/position

Hiromi Yamaguchi “Michinoku Ginzan Namida Yuki” Music Video

Hiromi Yamaguchi, known for her authentic, classic enka style inherited from her mentor Saburo Kitajima.

Her charm lies in a powerful, emotionally rich voice that you wouldn’t expect from her petite 147 cm frame.

The song she released in September 2025 is a quintessential heartbreak enka set in Ginzan Onsen, Yamagata.

It poignantly conveys the sorrow of a woman who ends an impermissible love, interwoven with scenes of rising steam and gently falling snow.

Why not immerse yourself in this travel-tinged piece and savor its tender melancholy?

signpostYamanishi Akari91rank/position

Akari Yamase “Michishirube” Music Video [Official]

This is a song by Akari Yamanishi, produced by Noritake Kinashi with lyrics and composition by George Tokoro.

The piece portrays scenes of encounters and farewells, as if reflecting Yamanishi’s life journey.

Her powerful vocals, the warm saxophone tones by Shinji Takeda, and the layered choruses from the star-studded production team come together to give listeners a heartfelt push forward.

Many will likely find themselves relating to it.

It’s a perfect anthem of encouragement when you’re at a crossroads in life or need the courage to take a new step.