[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.
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- [2026] Active in the enka and kayō world! A roundup of beautiful enka singers
- Popular Enka Singers Ranking [2026]
- [Female Singers Edition] The face of New Year’s Eve! Enka singers who appeared on the Kōhaku Uta Gassen
- [2026] Representative Famous Enka Songs: A Compilation of Classic Favorites [Beginner-Friendly]
- [For People in Their 60s] Ranking of Easy-to-Sing Karaoke Songs [2026]
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- A classic Showa-era kayōkyoku song sung by a female vocalist. A nostalgic tune passed down through the years.
- [2026] Easy Enka Songs for Karaoke: Recommended Picks — Women Singers Edition
[2026] Roundup of Female Enka Singers in Their 60s: Singers Supporting Japanese Enka (1–10)
Two People’s ClockMatsubara Ai
Ai Matsubara wears many hats—as an actor and a lyricist.
It might come as a surprise to some that her roots are actually as a singer.
It all began with a singer audition to perform the theme song for the manga Ai to Makoto.
Chosen as the winner from over 3,200 contestants nationwide, she made her debut as part of a duo in 1974.
After switching to a solo career with Yuki no Asa in 1975, she also thrived as an actor, appearing in films directed by Nobuhiko Obayashi and Akira Kurosawa.
Let yourself be moved by her resolute singing voice and the dramatic twists and turns of her life.
Crossing Amagi PassIshikawa Sayuri
Sayuri Ishikawa is an enka singer known for signature songs such as “Tsugaru Strait—Winter Scene” (1977) and “Amagi-goe” (1986).
Many of her songs are considered particularly challenging within the enka genre, and her beautiful high falsetto is truly captivating.
Her repertoire often portrays the passionate heart of a woman alongside beautiful landscapes, making her a model enka artist who fully brings out uniquely Japanese sentiment.
Be sure to listen to her songs and savor the spirit of Japan to the fullest!
Motivation Bluesyashima hiromi
Hiromi Yashima, a native of Kosai City in Shizuoka Prefecture, made her debut at 19 with “Ai ni Ikiru / Sayonara no Kotoba.” In 1992, she released a cover of “Yaruki-bushi,” originally performed by the Kawaguchi Sisters.
Her solid talent is evident from her winning the Newcomer Encouragement Award at the 9th Japan Song Festival in April 2007.
Listen to Hiromi Yashima’s voice, which stirs a sense of travel and nostalgia, and you’ll almost see the scenery of your hometown come to life.
Be sure to take your time and savor it!
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.
soft, blessed rainShimazu Etsuko
Etsuko Shimazu, a native of Kagoshima Prefecture, is an enka singer who made her debut in 1988 with “Shinobi Yado.” Signed to King Records, she has released many classic songs over the years.
For her 2022 release “Kizuna,” she went all out for fan services, offering perks like autographed boards and mask cases as part of the promotion.
She has appeared on a variety of programs, including those on NHK and TV Tokyo, showcasing a wide range of activities.
With her clear, crystalline voice, Etsuko Shimazu continues to captivate the hearts of enka fans.
She is highly recommended not only for those who love enka, but also for anyone interested in traditional Japanese music.