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A roundup of female enka singers in their 20s: The young divas of the enka world

A roundup of female enka singers in their 20s: The young divas of the enka world
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When it comes to enka, the long-established veteran singers are, of course, very popular, but in recent years younger singers have also been gaining attention.

In this article, we’ll be introducing a whole lineup of female enka singers in their 20s!

Some have been active since their teens, some are former idols, and others are still balancing idol activities alongside their enka careers—there’s a wide variety of backgrounds.

Each has her own unique charm, from performance style to vocal tone, so be sure to take your time and listen to their songs.

Roundup of female enka singers in their 20s: The young divas of the enka world (1–10)

Kimijima Reina

Reina Kimijima (19) / Asaka (Sayuri Ishikawa)
Kimijima Reina

Reina Kimijima has swept awards at numerous competitions since her elementary school days, making her talent widely known.

In 2011, she won the national finals of the Japan Popular Music Festival, a testament to her proven skill.

Her expressive range is astonishing, flawlessly delivering everything from classic enka to charming Showa-era idol pop.

She also showcases another side of herself as a calligrapher at events, adding to her multifaceted appeal.

Be sure to experience the voice of a next-generation star at least once.

Mamiya Strait: Rinzō’s LoveNakamura Miyu

Mamiya Strait ~Rinzō’s Love~ Miyu Nakamura New Song Release Stage
Mamiya Strait: Rinzō’s LoveNakamura Miyu

Miyu Nakamura is a singer born in 1998 from Osaka Prefecture, celebrated as a young star in the enka world.

She began her career in 2015 as a member of an idol unit that performed Showa-era pop, making a strong impression with performances in kimono and hakama.

She made her major debut on January 27, 2021 with “Mamiya Strait ~ Rinzō’s Love ~,” and her delicate yet powerful voice has won wide acclaim.

Nakamura’s signature songs convey the rich flavor of traditional enka to the present day, captivating many fans.

Her future activities are sure to draw continued attention.

It’s not a confession of love, but…Tanaka Aimi

Aimi Tanaka “It’s Not a Confession of Love, But” MUSIC VIDEO
It’s not a confession of love, but...Tanaka Aimi

Aimi Tanaka burst onto the youthful enka scene like a comet.

While studying at Kyoto University of Advanced Science, she drew attention in 2021 with the release of “Kodoku no Utahime” (Songstress of Solitude) and won widespread support.

Her distinctive husky voice perfectly matches enka’s pathos, and her powerful performances are captivating.

Though she’s only recently debuted, she already boasts a shining achievement: winning the New Artist Award at the 64th Japan Record Awards in 2021.

Even greater success lies ahead! Once you lend an ear to her singing, you’ll be drawn in by her charm—enka fan or not.

Woman’s Sagano RoadTsubuki Miyu

Miyu Tsubuki 'Onna no Saganoji' Music Video
Woman's Sagano RoadTsubuki Miyu

Born on February 28, 1996, and hailing from Fukushima Prefecture, Miyu Tsubuki is known for her pure and straightforward singing voice.

She debuted in 2015 at the age of 19 and has steadily expanded her fan base since then.

She admires and looks up to Fuyumi Sakamoto, and her willingness to take on a wide range of genres in addition to enka is especially appealing.

In particular, her signature song “Aizu: Yama no Kami” captivates many enka fans with its moving lyrics and melody.

Her voice promises to open a new door for enka.

She also excels at the flute, and her live performances continue to mesmerize audiences—be sure to experience one for yourself!

Brotherly Love SongAsahna Miho

[MV Full Chorus] Asabana Miho “Ani-sa Koiuta” [Official]
Brotherly Love SongAsahna Miho

Miho Asaka, who is drawing attention in the enka world.

Her debut single “Namida no Toge,” released on May 9, 2018, showcases her solid vocal skills and the depth unique to enka, achieving the remarkable feat of debuting at No.

7 on the Oricon charts.

The way she pours her heart into any song captivates countless fans.

Among young enka singers, Miho Asaka shines especially bright, and we can’t take our eyes off her future success!

red lanternsakuramaya

Maya Sakura’s new song “Aka Chochin” — a matured Maya delivers a heartfelt performance. CD now on sale from Tokuma Japan. Karaoke available on DAM (track code 1824-27).
red lanternsakuramaya

Born on July 26, 1998, Maya Sakura is a vibrant new star in the enka world.

She made her debut at age 10 as the “youngest enka singer in history,” making a big splash in the industry.

Her debut single, ‘Tairyo Matsuri,’ features a catchy melody that showcased her strengths to the fullest.

In 2009, she went on to win a string of prestigious awards, but what is most striking is her lively singing voice.

The simplicity and emotion nurtured by her Hokkaido upbringing blend together to create a resonance that no one can ignore.

The Diva’s Grand StageHoriuchi Haruna

21-Year-Old Enka Singer: Diva’s Grand Debut / Haruna Horiuchi
The Diva’s Grand StageHoriuchi Haruna

Haruna Horiuchi, born in Kumamoto on February 20, 1997, is a force bringing a fresh breeze to the powerful world of enka.

She began performing live at the age of ten, and in 2012—at just fifteen—she won NHK’s Nodo Jiman Kumamoto competition, revealing her talent as an enka singer.

Since then, she has received numerous enka awards, and her songs “Uta-hime Harubutai” and “Genkai Onna-go Bushi” are especially beloved as signature pieces.

Her singing, which unfolds like a story, has won the support of people of all ages, and we can’t wait to see what she does next.