A roundup of male enka singers in their 70s: legendary vocalists who support the enka world
Enka, long beloved by many listeners, is often called the “heart of Japan,” isn’t it?
In particular, many older folks probably grew up listening to enka from childhood, don’t you think?
In this article, we’ll introduce male enka singers in their 70s from the vibrant enka scene, where countless artists are active.
We’ve selected a wide range—from singers who are popular across generations to those every enka fan is sure to know.
If any singer catches your eye as you read, be sure to check out songs beyond the ones featured here!
- Great enka masterpieces and hit songs of the 1970s
- A roundup of male enka singers in their 80s: veterans who left their mark on the enka world
- [Enka] A feature on male singers in their 60s: enka vocalists whose rugged charm shines
- A roundup of male enka singers who represent the Showa era
- A roundup of female enka singers in their 70s: voices that evoke nostalgia
- Great enka masterpieces and hit songs of the 1980s
- Nostalgic enka. A collection of classic enka hits from the Showa era.
- Cool masterpieces of enka, the heart of Japan
- [Men] Enka Songs That Can Score High in Karaoke
- Roundup of male enka singers in their 50s: masters who are active at the heart of the enka world
- [2026] Enka Songs That Are Hard to Sing – Male Singers Edition
- [2026] A roundup of female enka singers in their 60s: Artists who support Japanese enka
- [2026] Life's Cheering Songs: A Collection of Recommended Enka to Lift Your Spirits
Roundup of male enka singers in their 70s: Legendary artists supporting the enka world (11–20)
Because I’m a loner girl.Kayama Akio
Akio Kayama is an enka singer from Hakodate, Hokkaido.
He studied under Masao Koga as the master’s last disciple and received his stage name from Akihiro Miwa—an illustrious background.
He debuted in December 1977 with “Hisame,” and in 1983 he won the Asahikawa Wired Music Award and the All-Japan Wired Music Grand Prix.
The aforementioned debut single sold nearly 800,000 copies, becoming Kayama’s biggest hit as a single.
It’s said he personally hand-sold records while touring, mainly around Hokkaido, reaching 30,000 copies.
He also serves as a Hakodate Tourism Ambassador, reflecting his deep affection for his hometown.
With his warm voice and moving enka performances, Kayama’s songs are a must-listen for enka fans.
draft (cold air seeping through gaps)Sugi Ryōtarō
What do you think Nakamura Umenosuke, Ichikawa Danshiro, and Sugiyama Ryo Tarō have in common? In fact, all three played Kin-san in “Toyama no Kin-san.” Sugiyama Ryo Tarō’s song “Sukimakaze” was a huge hit for him and also served as the theme song for “Toyama no Kin-san.” Although its highest Oricon chart position was only 25th, it set an impressive record by staying in the Top 100 for nearly three years.
The lyrics are excellent, comparing the idea that “people learn kindness through getting hurt” to a draft of wind slipping through gaps.
If you’re into enka, you could probably sing it without looking at the lyric sheet.
Celebration BoatKadowaki Rikuo
Rikuo Kadowaki is an enka and folk singer from Miyagi Prefecture.
He grew up in a farming family, and folk songs were his hobby from a young age.
He debuted in 1982 with “Iwai-bune” and gained broad support from karaoke fans.
He went on to release many songs often sung at celebratory gatherings, such as “Hare Sugata” and “Oyako-zuru.” His voice delivers a bright yet comfortable high register, conveying the ease of a seasoned performer.
Alongside his singing career, he has continued farming; he still lives in Miyagi Prefecture and is said to produce his prized Sasanishiki rice.
Recommended for celebratory occasions and for those who love heartwarming enka.
grandchildŌizumi Itsurō
Itsuro Oizumi, who hails from Yamagata Prefecture, has an unusual background, wearing two hats as both a cherry farmer and an enka singer.
He honed his skills in the world of folk music, winning the Tohoku/Hokkaido Minyo Grand Prize in 1977 and the Prime Minister’s Award from the Japan Folk Song Association in 1980.
After releasing a major-label work with Teichiku in 1999, he appeared on the NHK Kohaku Uta Gassen the following year and garnered numerous honors, including the Japan Record Award for Excellence and a Special Award at the Japan Gold Disc Awards.
His greatest appeal lies in his solid, resilient voice forged through folk traditions and his warm lyrical world rooted in the perspective of everyday life.
Inspired by his eldest son’s battle with illness, he has made supporting the bone marrow bank his life’s work and continues to hold charity concerts—an approach that resonates deeply.
lingering flowersIkeda Teruo
Teruo Ikeda is a folk and enka singer from Imari City, Saga Prefecture.
He made his major debut in 2007 with “Yunosato Shigure” and has released songs such as “Ame no Yogisha” and “Yunomachi Aika.” His unique appeal lies in his musical style that transitions from folk to enka, with many songs themed around “hot water/baths.” There’s also an episode where he was discovered by Hideo Mizumori while singing in the bath area of a hot spring inn.
His hobbies are golf and bowling, and he has achieved a perfect game in bowling twice.
He captivates fans not only with his singing but also with his friendly personality.
With his warm voice and emotionally rich singing, he is a performer who soothes the hearts of enka fans.
lieNakaijō Kiyoshi
Kiyoshi Nakajo is known as a leading figure in the enka world.
Born in 1946 in Gifu Prefecture, he debuted in 1968 under the name Akira Takanami.
His first single as Kiyoshi Nakajo, “Uso” (Lie), sold over 1.5 million copies and won the Popular Song Award at the 16th Japan Record Awards.
He has since released numerous hit songs.
Nakajo’s appeal lies in his rich, resonant voice and expressive singing, enhanced by his experience as an actor.
In 1981, he appeared in the period drama “Shin Hissatsu Shigotonin,” gaining popularity for his role as Yūji the Shamisen Player.
He is a recommended artist not only for enka fans but also for those who enjoy TV dramas and stage performances.
Roundup of male enka singers in their 70s: The renowned vocalists supporting the enka world (21–30)
Hakata Love BridgeHoo Shinya
Shinya Ohtori is an enka singer from Takayama, Gifu Prefecture, affectionately known as the “Male Hibari.” He made his professional debut in 1979.
His song “Hakata Koibashi” was released in 2010 to commemorate his 30th year in music.
Ohtori’s hallmark is his unique style of performing both male and female repertoire in the original keys.
With his vocal prowess and expressive delivery, he has captured the hearts of many enka fans.
Based in Kyushu, he performs nationwide and values connecting with regional enka audiences.
Ohtori’s voice—lush in the lower register and endowed with wide-ranging versatility—is one you should definitely hear.
In conclusion
We’ve introduced a selection of popular male enka singers in their 70s all at once.
There were many famous singers whose names always come up when you think of enka.
This time we featured relatively well-known hit songs, but if any singer caught your interest, be sure to check out their other tracks too!