A roundup of debut songs by Japanese female artists from the 1970s
The 1970s was a time in Japanese music history when a wide variety of female artists—singer-songwriters and idols alike—burst onto the scene, bringing vibrant color to the world of Japanese pop.
From towering figures like Miyuki Nakajima and Yumi Arai to stars such as Mari Amachi, Momoe Yamaguchi, Pink Lady, and Candies, this golden era produced one beloved classic after another.
Is there a debut song from those days by a female artist that still resonates with you? In this article, we’ll introduce the memorable debut tracks of the women who blazed through that dazzling decade.
Debut Songs of Japanese Female Artists from the 1970s (1–10)
Inspector Pepperpinku redii
Released in 1976, this was Pink Lady’s striking debut single.
Their mini-skirts and innovative choreography overturned the demure image of idols at the time and sent shockwaves across Japan.
The humor-packed, comical lyrics embody the unique world of lyricist Yū Aku.
Many people probably have memories of striking the poses along with them in front of the TV.
Thinking about how this one song became a social phenomenon and kicked off their subsequent winning streak still makes my heart race today.
It truly announced the beginning of a legend that pried open the doors of Japanese idol history.
Aquamarine Lovetenchi mari
This is the memorable debut song of Mari Amachi, which played in living rooms across Japan as an insert song in the drama “Jikan Desu yo,” instantly making her a star.
Released in 1971, it became a major hit, reaching No.
3 on the Oricon charts.
Her crystal-clear voice and the light, folk-inspired melody are a perfect match.
The “sky blue” of the title seems to symbolize the freshness of a budding romance and a hint of bittersweet feeling.
Just quietly thinking of someone you like makes your heart overflow—such sweet and sour scenes come vividly to mind.
It might remind you of that fluttering excitement we’ve all felt back then.
Listening to OliviaAnri
On a night of heartbreak, Anri’s ‘Listening to Olivia’ gently nestles close to the heart—a masterfully finished ballad that hardly feels like a debut single.
Lyrics and composition are by Ami Ozaki.
Sipping jasmine tea while reflecting on a past love—the mature worldview pairs exquisitely with Anri’s luminous, transparent vocals.
The song’s urban, sophisticated aura can be seen as a starting point for her later city pop direction.
On a night weighed down by sorrow, why not take the time to listen to this song?
Lullaby of the Thistle MaidenNakajima Miyuki
This is Miyuki Nakajima’s debut song, whose lyrical worldview is captivating and quite different from her image as the “queen of heartbreak songs.” Released in 1975, the piece is characterized by a poignant melody set to a waltz in triple time.
The thistle, blooming bravely despite its thorns, might represent someone fragile and easily hurt—or perhaps a projection of her own heart.
Although titled “Lullaby,” some listeners may feel it sounds like a quiet monologue meant to gently comfort oneself on a lonely night.
It’s remarkable how the fully formed storytelling—hard to believe it’s a debut—seamlessly matches the unique lyrical world that draws listeners in.
MeditationOzaki Ami
This is Ami Ozaki’s debut single, released with the expectation that she would be “the second Yuming.” Arranged by Masataka Matsutoya, the track boasts an urban, sophisticated sound that hardly seems like a debut work from 1976.
The serene piano tones and Ami Ozaki’s translucent vocals are a perfect match.
I can understand that feeling of seeking connection with others, yet at times choosing solitude.
Surrendering yourself to this dreamlike sonic world makes it easy to forget the everyday bustle and slip into your own private ‘meditation.’
Come back—my timeTakeuchi Mariya
Crafted by the star-studded duo of lyricist Kazumi Yasui and composer Kazuhiko Kato, this song marks Mariya Takeuchi’s memorable debut single.
Long beloved as the theme for an Isetan commercial, its urban, stylish sound feels like the dawn of city pop.
Delivered in Takeuchi’s youthful, translucent voice, the message of “Come back—this is my time” gently resonates with those of us who tend to push ourselves too hard.
When we’re busy living each day to the fullest, it’s easy to forget to make time for ourselves—but listening to this track might just lift your spirits and make you think, “That’s right, I’m going to reclaim my time.”
I’m crazy about you.kyandīzu
This is the landmark debut single by Candies, the three-member idol group that took Japan by storm in the 1970s.
Even the title, “Anata ni Muchū” (“Crazy About You”), is so straightforward and adorable! The fluttering excitement of a brand-new romance is brilliantly captured in its lively, up-tempo melody.
Listening to the refreshingly pure harmonies of Ran, Miki, and Sue, you can’t help but find a smile spreading across your face.
The song is packed with the fresh, unpolished charm of the group who would later become national idols—like a sparkling raw gem.
It might even bring back memories of that pure, all-consuming feeling you had when someone special was always on your mind.