Debut songs by Japanese female artists from the 2000s
Have you ever had the experience where you listened to something so much back then, but now you can’t remember the singer’s name? It’s frustrating, isn’t it? In this article, we’ve put together songs by female artists who debuted in the 2000s.
You might just find that song you’ve been searching for with only a hazy memory to go on.
Or you might discover, “Oh, she sang this kind of song too!” The range is truly wide—from soothing tracks to high-energy tunes! Find the perfect song to match your mood right now!
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[2000s] Debut songs by Japanese female artists (21–30)
The real meBuono!
Buono!’s debut single stands out with powerful guitar rock that goes beyond the bounds of “idol” music.
Released in October 2007, it was used as the ending theme for the anime Shugo Chara!.
It debuted at No.
5 on the Oricon Weekly Chart and remained ranked for 13 weeks—a true classic.
This track delivers a straightforward portrayal of the struggles and hopes of teens searching for their true selves, set to a fast-paced, exhilarating band sound.
When you’re ready to start something new, the trio’s strong vocals give you courage—an anthem-like number that cheers you on.
O strong oneSKE48
Formed as the first sister group of AKB48 and based in Sakae, Nagoya, SKE48.
This work is their debut single, released in August 2009—a powerful number that stands apart from cute idol songs and can be called an anthem for those who fight.
The lyrics depict a hero who, though wounded, overcomes loneliness and strives to carve out the future; it also feels like a declaration of resolve from the group as they set out to take on the scene.
The song was also used as the ending theme for the anime Shin Mazinger Shougeki! Z-Hen on television.
It’s a track that gives you a push forward—highly recommended for those who want to face challenges or need the courage to take a new step.
[2000s] Debut Songs by Japanese Female Artists (31–40)
GOOD DAYSZONE
Although ZONE is strongly associated with being a girls’ band, they actually started their careers as a dance group.
This was their major-label debut single, released in February 2001.
The members reportedly felt some internal conflict as they launched into a new style called “bandol,” performing while holding instruments.
Yet this track turned out to be such a bright, hopeful rock tune that you’d never guess at that backstory.
Its positive message—that as long as you have your friends, you’ll be okay—gently gives listeners a reassuring push forward.
First Love DashWatari Rōka Hashiritai Nana
This is the debut single released in January 2009 by Watarirouka Hashiritai, a sub-unit of AKB48.
It conjures up a sweet-and-sour, slightly bittersweet scene of unrequited love, like chasing your crush down the hallway.
Even the frustration of a love that won’t go smoothly is transformed into something positive by the catchy melody and energetic rhythm—the boundless brightness is truly wonderful! This debut track was released as a double A-side single with “Aoi Mirai,” peaked at No.
10 on the Oricon chart, and was later included on the album “Rōka wa Hashiruna!”
Maiden’s PrayerMano Erina
This is the solo debut song released by Erina Mano, who is also active as an actress, in March 2009.
The delicate tones of the piano—an instrument she has excelled at since childhood—blend with her pure, gentle vocals, making it truly lovely.
The work’s charm lies in its world view, which portrays a pure, prayer-like feeling of unwavering love for someone special.
It also drew attention for being composed by KAN.
The song impressively reached No.
5 on the Oricon Weekly Chart and later became one of her signature tracks, included on her first album “FRIENDS” and her best-of compilation “BEST FRIENDS.”
AgainTanimura Nana
It was released in 2007 as NANA Tanimura’s debut single.
For her debut, this song was chosen from seven candidate tracks.
It was used as the theme song for Kansai TV’s Tuesday 10 p.m.
drama “Oniyome Nikki: Ii Yu da na.” Tanimura is also known as the wife of professional boxer Kazuto Ioka.
sympathetic tearsHitoto Yo
It was released in 2002 as Yo Hitoto’s debut single.
It reached No.
4 on the Oricon Weekly Singles Chart and became a major hit, earning New Artist awards at the 45th Japan Record Awards, the Japan Cable Awards, the Best Hit Song Festival, and the Japan Gold Disc Awards in 2003.