Enka’s recent hit songs in 2025: Must-watch popular kayō tracks

music writerKOH-1
Started working as a music writer as a side job while employed at a record shop, and have been contributing to music magazines and web media for over 15 years. Although Western music is my main field, I always strive to stay curious with the motto, “I like what I like.” I have experience playing in a band, where I was a bassist responsible for songwriting and composition. Instruments I’ve performed on include bass, guitar, and piano. I resumed piano lessons after turning 40 and have been continuing ever since!
Former vocal coach specializing in Western musicRyo
Under the theme of “vocal skills that stand up on the world stage,” I have experience teaching as an online vocal coach specializing in Western music, and I usually listen to genres like nuevo flamenco, bolero, canzone, and R&B. In my teens, I questioned the idea that “foreign music equals English,” and started exploring songs from around the world. My commentary is characterized by a unique perspective shaped by listening to music of every genre, in every language, from every country. I mainly cover world music, so be sure to check it out!

In this article, we’ll introduce the latest hit enka songs recommended not only for longtime fans but also for those who’ve recently gotten into the genre.

We carefully selected tracks by comparing multiple charts, balancing freshness with popularity.

While enka is often associated with passionate, emotionally charged performances, we found that many recent songs are quite accessible and easy to enjoy.

Give them a listen and you may discover something new—or even find a favorite singer you didn’t know before.

Use this article as a guide when researching today’s most popular enka tracks!

[2025] Recent hit enka songs: Must-watch popular kayō tracks (111–120)

Aizu Namida BridgeMiyu Tsubuki

Miyu Tsubuki “Aizu Namida-bashi” Music Video

Aizu Namida-bashi — Tsubuki Miyu

Miyu Tsubuki from Fukushima Prefecture released her song “Aizu Namida-bashi” on January 10, 2024—an enka masterpiece that delicately sings of sorrowful partings and hope.

Her straightforward, powerful voice brings even deeper emotion to the story set in Aizu.

While using as its motif a farewell at Yanagi Bridge over the Yukawa on the Echigo Highway, the song carries a universal message that resonates strongly with modern listeners.

The feelings of the wandering protagonist, who keeps an enduring love close to the heart, seem to mirror the way we live our own lives.

This strong yet warm vocal performance, which weaves wishes for reunion after parting, is sure to reach not only enka fans but also listeners eager to discover the genre’s new charms.

Take your time to savor this song, which leaves a gentle afterglow in the heart, and the world spun by Miyu Tsubuki.

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KoishunkaMizuki Hayama

Mizuki Hayama “Koiharuhi” MUSIC VIDEO

Koi Haruha Hayama Mizuki

The acclaimed album Koiharubana, which paints an emotionally rich scene of spring, was released by Mizuki Hayama on January 17, 2024.

The lyrics and melody, born from the collaboration between lyricist Makiko Suga and composer Yuu Hijikawa, ride on the spring breeze and gently reach the listener’s heart.

The tone of the kokyu and the image of petals scattering on the water’s surface suggest the fleeting, beautiful nature of love.

The song conveys the poignant feelings of a protagonist who bears no grudge against the passage of time yet remains steadfast in love, resonating deeply with listeners.

Evoking the transience of love and the melancholy of parting alongside the changing seasons, this work is recommended not only for enka fans but also for anyone seeking a fresh emotional experience.

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Aventure NakameguroMATSURI

MATSURI / Adventure Nakameguro -Music Video-

AVENTURE Nakameguro MATSURI

A sultry number that paints an adult romance set against the city night.

It’s MATSURI’s debut work, released in January 2025.

With lyrics by Yasushi Akimoto, it deftly captures the unpredictability of love and the rising swell of emotion.

Set to a melody reminiscent of Showa-era mood kayō, it tells of the push and pull between a man and a woman in Nakameguro.

The rhythmic groove is crafted to make your body sway on its own.

A sparkling Reiwa-era take on a new generation of kayōkyoku.

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ComradeIchiro Toba

Comrade

Tomobai, by Ichirō Toba

This is a work that passionately sings of bonds between men.

Released in February 2025, it features the distinctive vocal ornamentation unique to enka throughout.

Toba’s singing powerfully conveys the feelings of men who have weathered life’s rough seas, which is particularly striking.

You can sense both a humble acceptance of one’s place and a proud appreciation of ties with friends.

It’s a song you’ll want to listen to in moments when you want to savor life together with your comrades.

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Sake LightHiroshi Miyama

BKMBD251 Saké Light Hiroshi Miyama (2025) 250102 vL HD

Sake Light by Hiroshi Miyama

Sung in a wistful voice, this piece poignantly evokes the bittersweet feelings of recalling happier days through the glow of a tavern’s lights.

Its deeply resonant melody and lyrics stir a sense of nostalgia and warmth.

Likely to become a new signature “drinking song enka” for Hiroshi Miyama, this work, set for release in January 2025, is recommended not only for enka fans but for anyone seeking a song that speaks to the heart.

It’s a track to savor slowly, a drink in hand.

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Under the blue skyTakuya Nakazawa

Under the blue sky

Takuya Nakazawa Under the Blue Sky

A heartwarming new song from Takuya Nakazawa is out now! The lyrics are by Shinichi Ishihara and the music is by Masami Tao—an all-star team behind the creation.

It tells the story of a protagonist who felt lonely amid the hustle and bustle of the city but finds a ray of light in life through a wonderful encounter.

With its gentle melody and carefully crafted lyrics, this is a track that will resonate deeply with listeners.

Set for release in January 2025, it’s the ending theme for Yomiuri TV/Nippon TV’s “Joho Live Miyane-ya.” Highly recommended for anyone seeking comfort for a weary heart.

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the moon at dawnMaiko Kozakura

Maiko Kozakura “Ariake no Tsuki” Music Video

Aria-ke no tsuki Kozakura Maiko

Maiko Kozakura’s new song is a masterpiece that weaves a fragile yet beautiful love story! It uses the moonlight symbolically to express the ache and loneliness of love.

The lyrics delicately portray the protagonist’s complex emotions, so it’s sure to deeply resonate with listeners.

Released in December 2024, the track is included on a single CD along with its coupling song.

I think anyone who has experienced love will relate to it.

It might be best enjoyed in the stillness of the night!

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