Popular Enka Singers Ranking [2026]

Kanazawa Nostalgia SongMatsubara Takeshi57rank/position

[MV] Takeshi Matsubara / Kanazawa Nostalgia Song (full ver.)

Takeshi Matsubara moves people’s hearts with his quietly powerful high notes.

Released in June 2005, this song drew major attention as his debut single and became a symbol of Kanazawa, even being used as background music in the concourse of JR Kanazawa Station.

It’s a masterpiece in which a deep affection for Kanazawa’s nature, culture, and the people who live there resonates through the lyrics and melody.

It’s recommended not only for fans of enka, but also for anyone who wants to feel the emotions tied to their hometown or a beloved place.

YukoYūji Matsuo58rank/position

Yushi Matsuo “Yuko” MUSIC VIDEO

It feels like a sweet love story that seeps into the heart.

This song by Yushi Matsuo, who has built a firm place for himself in the enka world as a singer, was released in December 2024.

It carefully weaves the tale of a protagonist who stays by the side of a woman named Yuko and seeks to lead her toward a happy future.

Matsuo’s distinctive phrasing, featuring his signature rolled Rs, and his warm vocal tone further elevate the story.

It’s a track that lets you fully savor the appeal of enka that stands by life’s side—one you’ll want to listen to with someone special.

As I am in love…Akimoto Junko59rank/position

As I am in love…

A classic song that pours deep affection and pure emotions into a distinctive husky voice was released in January 2008.

Created by a veteran singer active across diverse genres such as jazz and Latin, the track gradually gained popularity after its release and achieved an extraordinary feat by reaching No.

1 on the weekly charts a year later.

The artist also performed at the 2008 Kōhaku Uta Gassen, capturing the hearts of many.

Set to a wistful melody featuring a memorable accordion timbre, the lyrics convey sincere feelings for a beloved person and resonate with listeners of all generations.

When tackling it at karaoke, consider emphasizing rich expressiveness and singing along to the relaxed tempo.

What are you doing tonight?Junretsu60rank/position

[MV] Junretsu / What Are We Doing Tonight? [Recording Footage]

“What Are You Doing Tonight?” is a track included on the album Junretsu Spirit 2, released in November 2025, composed by folk legend Kosetsu Minami.

The lyrics—portraying an intense passion that defies restraint and the edgy games of mature romance—leave a strong impression.

It’s a superb fusion of the sultry allure of mood kayō with a sophisticated, urban pop sound.

Recommended for nighttime drives or for those seeking a mellow, intimate atmosphere.

selfish womanAoyama Shin61rank/position

Aoyama Arata “Selfish Woman” Music Video

While portraying the sweet yet bittersweet heart of a woman, this ambitious work dives into the world of blues-style kayō.

With his gentle aura, Arata Aoyama explores the themes of lingering attachment and jealousy toward a former lover, expressing the complex emotions of a mature woman.

Lyrics by Koyomi Asa and composition by Hideo Mizumori come together to create a memorable song marked by its distinctive triplet rhythm.

Released as a single in February 2025, the work is available in three versions: TYPE TOKYO, TYPE Youth, and TYPE Starry Sky.

It also features a tie-in with TBS Radio’s “Saturday Morning 6 o’clock: Kinashi no Kai.” The song was unveiled to fans for the first time at a concert held on January 26 of the same year at the Urayasu City Cultural Hall, celebrating the 5th anniversary of Aoyama’s debut.

It’s a must-listen not only for those moved by the end of a romance, but also for anyone eager to discover a new side of enka.

Back Alley Fireflieskoori kenta62rank/position

Kenta Koori “Backstreet Firefly” [Official Full Chorus MV]

The enka singer Kenta Koori, who is drawing attention in the genre, released a song in September 2024 that richly captures the emotions of a wistful love, likening it to the glow of fireflies.

Released to commemorate the 15th anniversary of his debut, the piece features lyrics depicting the fleeting scenes of love and a passionate vocal performance.

It’s packed with the appeal of enka that makes full use of a wide vocal range, allowing listeners to savor both his soaring high notes and his lustrous low-register expressiveness.

When trying it at karaoke, the key is to value emotional expression while minding the balance between highs and lows.

It’s a recommended track for those who want to touch on the subtleties of love and life.

Great Catch Festivalsakuramaya63rank/position

Big Catch Festival - Sakura Maya

It was released in 2008 as Maya Sakura’s debut single.

The song was used in a Takara Tomy commercial for “Oyako no Taiyaki-kun.” She debuted from Nippon Crown as the youngest enka singer in history, and with this song she won the New Artist Award at the 51st Japan Record Awards and the New Artist Award at the 42nd Japan Cable Radio Awards.