![[2026] A roundup of female enka singers in their 60s: Artists who support Japanese enka](https://i.ytimg.com/vi_webp/Dv8ZzzDVnNI/maxresdefault.webp)
[2026] A roundup of female enka singers in their 60s: Artists who support Japanese enka
Enka, a uniquely Japanese music genre, has long been cherished by many people.
From the birth of enka to the present day, countless singers have emerged, and numerous classic songs continue to be loved.
Many of these enka singers captivate audiences with their powerful vocal skills and expressive abilities, and quite a few have gone beyond the confines of enka to thrive in broader fields.
In this article, we’ll focus especially on female singers in their 60s and highlight their appeal.
They are all beloved figures who have energized Japan’s enka scene, so take this opportunity to listen to their music.
[2026] Roundup of Female Enka Singers in Their 60s: Singers Supporting Japanese Enka (1–10)
Fleeting LoveKouzai Kaori
Kaori Kozai, a native of Osaka Prefecture, is a highly accomplished enka singer born on August 28, 1963.
Her vocal prowess, honed from a young age through folk songs, has brought color to numerous hits, beginning with her debut single, “Ame Sakaba” (Rainy Bar).
In 1991, she won a prestigious award for “Nagaregusa,” cementing her talent and popularity.
With an emotive voice and moving melodies that capture listeners’ hearts, Kozai has also made many appearances on television and in commercials, showcasing a versatility that transcends the enka genre.
Listening to her singing offers a heartfelt experience of Japan’s traditional music.
Marigold LoveYuko Kinoshita
Yuko Kinoshita, who made a brilliant career change from office worker to singer, is an artist whose expressive power transcends the boundaries of enka.
Her 1984 debut single “Hanasarete” won the Excellent Newcomer Award at the 17th All Japan Cable Broadcasting Awards.
Admiring the blues culture of Kansai, she delivers stunning performances on stage, even singing jazz.
Alongside her singing career, she has showcased her diverse talents by publishing a diet book based on her own experiences.
If you’d like to experience her deep, ever-more-mature voice, be sure to give her music a listen.
From the Land of the MorningKimu Yonja
Born on January 25, 1959, Kim Yonja debuted in Korea and later unleashed her talent in Japan as well.
In addition to her success in the world of enka, she has also handled ballads and pop, playing an important role as a musical bridge between Japan and Korea.
Her powerful voice opened up a new frontier in 2013 with EDM trot, captivating many with “Amor Fati.” She is a singer loved across nationalities and generations.
Her numerous concerts have been successful, and her commitment to charitable activities has also inspired many.
The more you listen, the more her charm reveals itself—Kim Yonja’s voice is one you won’t forget once you’ve heard it.
I’m pretty, right?Wakayama Kazusa
Kazusa Wakayama, originally from Chiba Prefecture, is a highly skilled artist who has remained at the forefront for over 40 years since her 1984 debut.
Her signature songs, “Shinobi Gasa” and “Shiro Botan,” can be considered masterpieces in the history of enka.
Her singing voice gently permeates listeners’ hearts, as if painting delicate scenes.
She has also ventured beyond the confines of enka, such as releasing a duet with professional baseball legend Hiromitsu Ochiai, which adds to her appeal.
Many people are captivated by her ever-more-radiant voice and her contributions to the community.
Homesickness on a JourneyNishizaki Midori
Midori Nishizaki is the head of a Japanese dance school, and at the same time an actor and an enka singer who remains at the forefront of her fields.
In fact, she made her debut as a singer at the young age of seven and is a true veteran with over 60 years in the performing arts.
Many may be surprised by the breadth of her talents, which extend far beyond the world of enka.
She gained attention with the duet Nen-nen Funauta with Yoshio Tabata, and in 1974, Tabishū, which became the theme song for the popular period drama Kurayami Shiwatori, sold over a million copies.
The expressive power she cultivated through Japanese dance lends depth to the poignant timbre of her singing voice.