[Enka] A special feature on male singers in their 20s. Glamorous charm.

POPS writer/editorKEI
Since discovering music during my school days, I’ve mainly listened to Japanese and Korean pop. I have experience writing articles for sites like Utaten. 2000s J-pop and 2010s K-pop were especially the soundtrack of my youth. With the mindset that “good is good,” I enjoy music across genres. Thanks to past work environments and their influence, I was exposed to lots of classic rock and kayōkyoku (Japanese popular songs), which may have broadened the scope of what I love. At RAG MUSIC, I currently focus on K-pop and J-pop. I strive to edit with a feel for the scene and an eye for hit potential.

Enka, a genre that lets you feel the Japanese heart and soul.

Even those who don’t usually listen to it may have encountered it on the grand stage of the Red and White Song Battle or through their grandparents.

It’s been decades since Kiyoshi Hikawa—now known for activities far beyond enka—first broke through, and in recent years young male enka singers seem to be drawing attention.

The fan base has been steadily spreading to younger generations, and the sense of closeness to the artists is one reason for their popularity.

In this article, we’ll focus on male enka singers in their 20s among these young performers!

Let’s shine a spotlight on their dazzling appeal!

[Enka] A special feature on male singers in their 20s. Glamorous charm (11–20)

potato flowersKoyama Yudai

Yudai Koyama “Potato Flowers” Music Video (Full Ver.)

potato flowersKoyama Yudai

Enka singer Yudai Koyama—nicknamed “the nation’s grandson” and soaring in popularity for his fresh, idol-worthy looks—is bringing a new breeze to the Reiwa-era enka scene, armed with the skills he honed since childhood in folk songs and shamisen.

After debuting in 2024 with the single “Donan Koishiya,” he quickly drew attention, winning the New Artist Award at the 66th Japan Record Awards.

His “magic voice,” refined under his mentor Tetsuya Gen, and the prowess that earned him the Grand Champion title at the 2016 NHK Nodo Jiman Champions Tournament are must-hear.

He also has a side where he performs magic tricks, making him someone even newcomers to enka should definitely check out.

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In conclusion

We introduced a whole lineup of male enka singers in their 20s.

Each singer’s unique qualities really shine, and I felt that many of their songs are even more approachable than classic enka.

Did you find the artist you were looking for? If we missed anyone or if you have recommendations like “Hey, this male enka singer is in his 20s too!”, we’ll add them—so please let us know!