[2026] Enka Singer from Tohoku

music writerKOH-1
Started working as a music writer as a side job while employed at a record shop, and for over 18 years I’ve contributed to music magazines, disc guide books, mooks, and web media. As a writer my main field is Western music, but as a listener for over 35 years, I always try to keep my curiosity alive with the motto “I like what I like.” I have experience playing in bands, where I was a bassist who handled songwriting and composition. Instruments I’ve played include bass, guitar, and piano. I began studying English in my mid-40s and continue to do so today.

Kohei Fukuda, Kenji Niinuma, Masao Sen… They’re all well-known figures in the enka world, but do you know what they have in common?

In fact, they all share the same trait: each of them hails from the Tohoku region.

When it comes to enka, many songs are themed around Tohoku or are local anthems, and as mentioned, many famous enka singers come from Tohoku.

In this article, we spotlight enka singers from Tohoku, including younger artists who have debuted in recent years.

That favorite enka singer of yours might actually be from your hometown, too.

Be sure to check out the article!

[2026] Enka Singers from Tohoku (11–20)

Back-Alley Man’s SakeKihara Takeshi

Takeshi Kihara 'Back Alley Otoko-zake' Music Video

Back-Alley Man’s SakeKihara Takeshi

Takeshi Kihara is an enka singer from Oshu City in Iwate Prefecture, acclaimed for his distinctive vocals filled with masculine melancholy and passion—especially in works that depict a man’s solitude, fervor, and the ups and downs of life through the lens of alcohol.

He released a single from Teichiku Records on October 16, 2024, vividly portraying a man’s inner turmoil in back alleys and the weight of a life he carries, with deeply emotional singing as its appeal.

Kihara’s warm yet powerful voice is said to move listeners profoundly.

Expectations are high for him to transcend the boundaries of enka and make an impact in the broader music scene.

Known for songs that portray a man’s life and emotional landscape, Kihara enjoys wide support among contemporary enka and kayōkyoku fans.

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Purple Rain SentimentFuji Ayako

Ayako Fuji “Murasaki Ujō (Purple Rain Sentiment)” Music Video (1 Chorus)

Purple Rain SentimentFuji Ayako

Speaking of singers with a lustrous voice nurtured by Akita’s rich nature, Aya-ko Fuji comes to mind.

Building on vocal skills honed through folk songs since childhood, she has mainly been active in the enka genre.

After making her second debut with “Onna” in 1989, she scored a major hit with “Kokoro-zake” released in 1992.

The song won the 25th Japan Cable Radio Awards, and she made her first appearance on the NHK Kouhaku Uta Gassen that same year.

Her musical appeal lies above all in her sultry, deeply expressive delivery.

At the same time, she also demonstrates her talent as a singer-songwriter, penning her own lyrics and music under the name “Aya Ono.” She’s the perfect artist for those who want to hear classic, heart-stirring enka or immerse themselves in an authentic voice rooted in traditional folk music.

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In conclusion

In addition to well-known singers from Tohoku like Kohei Fukuda and Kenji Niinuma, many of you may have been surprised to see unexpected names such as Keiko Fuji.

Many enka singers from Tohoku regularly release local-themed songs, and listening while thinking about the singer’s hometown can add a special layer of enjoyment.

Be sure to give that way of appreciating the music a try.