Enka’s recent hit songs in 2025: Must-watch popular kayō tracks
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!
- [October 2025] Latest Enka and Kayōkyoku roundup. Check out the buzzworthy new songs!
- Enka’s recent hit songs in 2025: Must-watch popular kayō tracks
- Classic enka songs you’ll want to sing at karaoke: recommended popular tracks
- [2025] Easy-to-Sing Enka: From Classic Masterpieces to Recent Hits [Female Singers Edition]
- [For Women] A roundup of enka songs that can score high in karaoke
- [2025] A Collection of Classic Enka and Kayōkyoku Duets by Women
- [2025] Thriving in the enka and kayōkyoku scene! A roundup of beautiful enka singers
- Easy-to-sing enka: A roundup of recommended enka songs for karaoke
- [2025] Recommended enka by male singers with captivating high notes
- Compilation of enka duet songs. Introducing popular kayōkyoku hits as well!
- [2025] Recommended for those who struggle with high notes! Enka by male singers that can be sung in a low register
- [2025] Easy-to-Sing Enka — From Timeless Classics to Recent Hits [Male Singers Edition]
- Enka Karaoke Popularity Rankings [2025]
[2025] Recent hit enka songs: Must-watch popular kayō tracks (121–130)
Hokkai Nagare-utaHiroshi Oe
It’s a gently poignant song that brings to mind the scenery of Hokkaido.
Showcasing Hiroshi Oe’s rich, powerful voice, this work was released in November 2024.
Set in the northern lands, it’s a heartrending enka number whose lyrics convey the feelings of a man turning his back on love and family, resonating deeply with listeners.
How about listening to it on a long winter’s night, at a relaxed pace? It will surely give you time to reflect on life and the people you hold dear.
Memories Are WingsRitsuko Abe
Known as the Queen of Duets, Ritsuko Abe released this song in October 2024 to commemorate the 55th anniversary of her debut.
It’s a solo piece infused with gratitude for the past and hope for the future, featuring poetic lyrics by Kimihito Sasa and a lyrical melody by Ichiro Kaneda that truly resonates.
The imagery of memories as wings is striking, and the song carries a warmth that gently encourages those at a turning point in life.
Abe’s vocals might be just the push you need to take a new step forward.
Tazawako Love SongTeiji Yasuda
Teiji Yasuda is a late-blooming enka singer who made his debut at the age of 75.
His much-anticipated debut single, “Tazawako Koiuta,” drew attention in the enka scene of his home prefecture, Akita.
The Tazawa Lake featured in this work is located in Akita, where Yasuda is from, and the song warmly portrays sentiments for his hometown.
Its orthodox melody pairs exquisitely with Yasuda’s warm vocals.
If you’re looking for a new favorite enka newcomer, be sure to check him out.
Showa-style (old-school, traditional) dispositionYoshimi Tendo
Yoshimi Tendo, an enka singer from Osaka known for her overwhelming vocal prowess.
She’s a striking artist whose powerful projection—unbelievable from such a small frame—and captivating expressiveness draw listeners in.
Among her works, the new song I especially recommend is Showa Katagi.
While she often releases tunes with a kayōkyoku flair, this track is a full-fledged enka piece.
The force in her low to mid register is astonishing, so women looking to add more richness to their voice might find valuable hints in this recording.
[2025] Recent hit enka songs. Must-watch popular kayō tracks (131–140)
falling in love againKenji Kurimiya
Kenji Kurimiya is an enka singer from Kurihara City, Miyagi Prefecture.
He currently runs a vocal school in his hometown of Kurihara City (now Ogaki City) and also works as a composer, providing songs to numerous artists.
Among his works, a new track we especially recommend is “Nido Bore” (Falling in Love Twice).
This song features heartwarming lyrics about a long-married couple rekindling their love and realizing how important they are to each other.
How about dedicating it to your wife or husband? Be sure to check it out.
Hourglass of LifeNatsuko Godai
An emotionally moving enka number that likens the transience and beauty of life to an hourglass.
Through the changing of the four seasons, it conveys a message about cherishing each irreplaceable moment.
Released in May 2024, this work focuses on the theme of “life,” a motif that symbolizes Natsuko Godai’s long career.
Lyrics by Mami Takubo, music by Tetsuji Hayashi.
It’s a song you’ll want to listen to when you reach a turning point in life or feel like reflecting on it.
Godai’s richly expressive voice will resonate deeply in the hearts of listeners.
tearful disposition; tendency to cry easilyYuji Kitagawa
A poignant song by Yuji Kitagawa that portrays the pain of heartbreak and the ache of loneliness.
It gently soaks in with delicate vocals, conveying a woman’s lingering attachment to a former lover and the solitary nights she endures.
Despite its major key, the Bayon rhythm exudes a wistful air, showcasing the emotive allure of enka.
Released in May 2024, this piece commemorates the 40th anniversary of his debut—a gem of a ballad born from his collaboration with his mentor, Tetsuya Gen.
Recommended for anyone who has experienced a broken heart or loves pure romance.
It’s the kind of song that makes you want to sip a drink while losing yourself in Kitagawa’s warm, embracing voice.