New Enka Single Release [May 2025]
A new breeze is beginning to blow through the enka scene in the Reiwa era.
In May 2025, a string of notable new songs is arriving—works that honor the long-cherished traditions of enka while exuding a contemporary vitality.
Whether you’re well-versed in enka or relatively new to it, you’ll likely find your heart moved by its tones and voices.
In this article, we invite you into a fresh world of enka, where emotive vocals and lyrics that reflect the times are woven together.
- New enka single release [June 2025]
- New enka single release [April 2025]
- New enka single release [March 2025]
- New Enka Single Release [February 2025]
- New Enka Single Release [January 2025]
- Enka’s recent hit songs in 2025: Must-watch popular kayō tracks
- [October 2025] Latest Enka and Kayōkyoku roundup. Check out the buzzworthy new songs!
- [2025] Thriving in the enka and kayōkyoku scene! A roundup of beautiful enka singers
- New enka single release [December 2024]
- New Enka Single Release [July 2024]
- New Enka Single Release [October 2024]
- [2025] Recommended enka by male singers with captivating high notes
- New enka single release [August 2024]
New Enka Releases [May 2025] (1–10)
Shining LadyHikaru Aoyama
Hikaru Aoyama’s “Hikaru Kimi ni” will be released by Nippon Crown in May 2025.
The project is produced by the up-and-coming creator HANZO, with arrangement by Masashi Yatabe.
Its steadfast vocals convey a powerful resolve to overcome life’s trials and loneliness, resulting in a moving piece.
It naturally makes you ponder, “How should I live from here on?” When you find yourself at a crossroads in life or your feelings for someone special are growing stronger, this song will surely stay close to your heart.
Love and PeopleEtsuko Nakamura
A heartwarming gem of a ballad woven from an emotionally rich melody and a voice that resonates deep within.
Released in April 2025 to commemorate Etsuko Nakamura’s 30th anniversary debut, this song is marked by its grand, beautiful sound arrangement—each note gently seeping into the depths of your heart.
The lyric message “It’s because there was love that I could go on” is truly wonderful.
It’s the perfect track for moments when you want to feel the bond with someone special.
A Seeker of MemoriesSumi
This is a labor-of-love work released by Sumi in April 2025 from Wing Japan, with lyrics by Ryuichi Satomura, music by Akihiro Otani, and arrangement by Yasuomi Suo.
Blending a dazzling melody with Sumi’s rich expressiveness, the piece evokes a cinematic sense of storytelling.
You can vividly picture the heartrending scene of waiting for someone who is no longer there—it really seeps into your heart.
New Enka Song Releases [May 2025] (11–20)
Yokohama Bay AreaKazuya Iwade
A medium-tempo enka that gives voice to a mature romance.
This song by Kazuya Iwade was released in April 2025.
The urban atmosphere woven by guitar and strings blends beautifully with the poignantly tinged vocals.
Set against the backdrop of nighttime Yokohama, the lyrics portray the love story of a man and a woman.
It’s a perfect companion for late-night drives, and a song we especially hope those who have experienced a parting with someone dear will take to heart.
bondYukio Hashi · ZERO
This self-cover song exquisitely blends the tradition of Showa-era kayōkyoku with Korean sensibilities.
It’s a duet by a legend of the Japanese music world, Yukio Hashi, and the powerhouse Korean-born vocalist ZERO.
Released in April 2025, the piece beautifully portrays the bonds with loved ones and the depth of love.
The relaxed tempo pairs perfectly with the warmth of the vocals.
It’s a song I wholeheartedly recommend to anyone who resonates with the joys and struggles of love and the connections between people.
Genkai ShibukiTeruo Ikeda
An ambitious work that powerfully stirs the heart like the rough waves of the Genkai Sea, depicting a man’s melancholy and pride.
This piece by Teruo Ikeda was released by King Records in May 2025.
A stellar team has come together: composed by his longtime ally Hideo Mizumori, with lyrics by Kyosuke Kuni and arrangement by Tatsuya Nango.
In Ikeda’s signature style—his sweet yet resonant voice—he portrays the life of a man of the sea.
A must-listen for those who long for their hometown shores and for anyone seeking enka that truly resonates.
Funamizaka (Funami Slope)Sora Taiju
Set in a northern port town, this is a wistful love song.
Released in May 2025, it is positioned as the third installment in Daiki Sora’s “Hokkaido Series.” The story, set against famous sights in Otaru, paints vivid scenes in the listener’s mind.
Sora’s sweet yet heartrending vocals beautifully capture the delicate emotions of the male narrator.
The worldview, where the cityscape overlaps with a bittersweet romance, is a must-hear.
Be sure to give it a close listen!