A roundup of female enka singers in their 70s: voices that evoke nostalgia
We’d like to introduce female enka singers who, having experienced life’s bittersweet ups and downs and possessing a rich expressive power, are still active in their seventies! It’s no exaggeration to say that this generation has led the world of enka, a genre that conveys the spirit of traditional Japan.
Even as we move through the Heisei and Reiwa eras into ever-newer times, the voices of enka singers from this generation will remind you of the good old days of Japan.
If you want to feel a nostalgic Japan, or savor the voices of artists who helped build an era of enka, be sure to check them out!
- Great enka masterpieces and hit songs of the 1970s
- [2026] A roundup of female enka singers in their 60s: Artists who support Japanese enka
- [Enka] A special feature on female singers in their 80s. Singers who were active from the early to mid-Showa era.
- Diva of Enka: A roundup of female singers leading the enka world
- Women’s Enka: A collection of classic enka songs expressing women’s emotions
- A roundup of leading female enka singers representing the Showa era
- A roundup of male enka singers in their 70s: legendary vocalists who support the enka world
- Nostalgic enka. A collection of classic enka hits from the Showa era.
- [Recommended for people in their 70s] Songs that really move you. Beloved classic Japanese hits of the past.
- [Female Singers Edition] The face of New Year’s Eve! Enka singers who appeared on the Kōhaku Uta Gassen
- [For Beginners] Recommended Enka Classics for Karaoke — Women Singers Edition
- Great enka masterpieces and hit songs of the 1980s
- 【2026】Difficult Enka Songs to Sing — Women Singers Edition
Roundup of female enka singers in their 70s: Voices that evoke nostalgia (21–30)
Raised in a downtown neighborhoodSasa Midori
Midori Sasa, a prominent figure in the Japanese enka scene, captivates many fans with her clear, transparent voice and emotionally expressive delivery.
Released in July 2008, “Aki Shigure” drew attention as a tie-in song for KBS Kyoto’s popular program Kayō Salon: Enka ga Ee Jan.
The work also won the 14th Grand Prize for Best Lyrics in the program’s contest inviting lyric submissions for songs performed by professional singers.
Sasa’s music is known for depicting Japan’s four seasons and the full spectrum of human emotions—joy, anger, sorrow, and happiness.
Her songs are available in high-resolution audio, offering a richer listening experience.
She is highly recommended for those seeking nostalgic Japanese scenery and lyrics that resonate with the heart.
someone else’s shipOno Yukiko
Born in 1944 in Takarazuka, Hyogo Prefecture, Yukiko Ono embarked on a musical path at the age of 16.
Her presence shines as an indispensable light in Japan’s enka world.
In particular, her 1980 smash hit “Taninsen” brought her name to wide recognition.
Her matured voice—honed over decades—has transcended eras and continues to be loved by many.
She is also dedicated to artistic pursuits beyond music, showcasing her talents in multiple fields.
With her heartwarming vocals, she conveys the profound spirit of Japanese wa to the present day.
Listening to her music, you can feel a constant warmth that endures no matter how times change.
In conclusion
I introduced some female enka singers in their 70s—did you find any who caught your interest? There are many songs that leave a different impression when sung in youth versus after gaining years of experience.
I recommend comparing their voices from when they were younger with how they sound now, and experiencing the different shades each version brings to the music!