MUSIC AWARDS JAPAN Releases Full Archive of Enka & Kayōkyoku Live Performance Worldwide on YouTube

Tokyo, Japan — Celebrating its inaugural edition with the theme “Connecting to the world, lighting the future of music,” MUSIC AWARDS JAPAN 2025 (MAJ) has quickly established itself as Japan’s largest-scale international music award. MUSIC AWARDS JAPAN 2025 Enka & Kayōkyoku LIVE [Best Enka & Kayōkyoku Song Award Ceremony], held as part of MAJ’s official awards week, is now available for streaming on the official MUSIC AWARDS JAPAN YouTube channel.

This special program celebrated the artists and songs that have shaped Japan’s rich tradition of enka and kayōkyoku music, and featured live performances, special appearances and the presentation of the Best Enka & Kayōkyoku Song Award.

On May 19, in the cultural capital of Kyoto, the MUSIC AWARDS JAPAN 2025 Enka and Kayōkyoku LIVE brought Japan’s most emotional and timeless music to life. Held just ahead of the main award ceremonies for Japan’s largest international music awards, this event honored two iconic genres that many outside Japan are only now discovering.

Enka is often described as Japan’s soul music. It comprises dramatic ballads filled with longing and emotion, usually performed with powerful vocals and rich vibrato. Kayōkyoku refers to pre-J-pop Japanese pop music that was popular throughout the 20th century. Together, they form the roots of Japanese popular music and continue to influence artists across generations.

A Grand Opening in Kyoto

The concert opened with legendary singer Takashi Hosokawa performing his signature hit “Matsuri” backed by a high-energy Japanese drum troupe. As more performers filled the stage, the atmosphere quickly became a celebration of national identity and musical pride. The audience of 450 erupted in applause as the night began with power and tradition combined.

Songs for the Seasons and Sounds of Japan

Throughout the night, artists performed songs that captured the essence of Japan’s four seasons and unique landscapes. From Yoko Nagayama’s winter ballad “Tsugaru Kaikyō Fuyugeshiki” to Kaori Mizumori’s “Tottori Sakyu,” the show painted a musical picture of the country’s emotional and geographic beauty.

You did not need to understand the lyrics to feel the impact. These songs speak through emotion and melody. They are cinematic in their storytelling and deeply expressive in their delivery.

Tradition Reimagined

One of the most exciting parts of the night was seeing how younger artists are reshaping tradition. Midori Oka collaborated with a glowstick-wielding dance crew on the viral hit “Senbonzakura,” blending retro vocal styles with modern visuals. Shoko Haida performed the Studio Ghibli classic “Carrying You” with a Kyoto children’s choir, creating a moving intergenerational moment.

These moments highlighted how Japanese traditional music can evolve while keeping its spirit intact.

A New Generation of Voices

Young performers such as Ryusei, Aimi Tanaka and Shin Aoyama reinterpreted classic enka and kayōkyoku hits. Their voices gave new life to songs from the Shōwa era, offering a fresh take on melodies that once defined Japan’s postwar music scene.

Groups like Junretsu, SHOW-WA and MATSURI brought humor and charm via upbeat performances like “Ii Yu da na,” while Yuto Tatsumi gave a dramatic sword-dance infused rendition of “Setsugetsuka” with help from Kyoto’s Toei Sword troupe.

A Tribute to Hibari Misora

One of the most powerful moments was a tribute to Hibari Misora, one of the greatest singers in Japanese history. A traditional storytelling performance introduced her life, followed by emotional renditions of “Kanashiki Kuchibue” by Konomi Mori and “Kawa no Nagare no Yō ni” by Kaori Mizumori. These songs reminded the audience of the timeless beauty of Japanese melody and voice.

The Award Announcement

The Best Enka and Kayōkyoku Song Award was the night’s final highlight. Nominees SHOW-WA, Leon Niihama, and MATSURI each performed their nominated tracks live. Although Keisuke Yamauchi could not attend in person due to his tour, he sent a video message thanking his fans as his song “Kurenai no Chō” was announced as the winner. His label head accepted the red RUBY trophy on his behalf.

Closing with Strength

The evening ended with a stunning performance featuring five tsugaru shamisen masters, followed by Takashi Hosokawa singing “Bōkyō Jonkara” in celebration of his 50th anniversary as a performer.

He told the audience, “I debuted in 1975 with Kokoro no Kori. I will continue to sing enka with all my heart.” His words echoed the spirit of the night.

MUSIC AWARDS JAPAN 2025 Enka & Kayōkyoku LIVE
[Best Enka & Kayōkyoku Song Award Ceremony]

Date:Monday, May 19, 2025

Venue: ROHM Theatre Kyoto, South Hall

Performers: Takashi Hosokawa, Kaori Mizumori, Yoko Nagayama, Midori Oka, Junretsu, Shoko Haida, Konomi Mori, Naoki Sanada, Leon Niihama, Yuto Tatsumi, Hayabusa, Soichi Futami, Shin Aoyama, Tetsuji Kimura, Ryusei, Aimi Tanaka, SHOW-WA, MATSURI, Kokoro Umetani

Hosts: Win Morisaki, Yuki Matsumaru, Kayna

Other performers: Nanafuku Tamagawa (Rōkyoku performer), ASKA Japanese Drum Troupe, Kyoto Choral Association, Toei Tsurugikai

Streaming URL: https://youtu.be/sDPrEnxptEc

Organized by:  CEIPA (Culture and Entertainment Industry Promotion Association)

Co-organized by: MUSIC AWARDS JAPAN 2025 KYOTO Collaborative Event Committee
(Comprising CEIPA, Kyoto Prefecture, and Kyoto City)

Streaming URL: