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.
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- [1970s] Collection of Japanese hit songs. Nostalgic masterpieces of Japan
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- [1970s] Classic and hit songs of Japanese rock that blazed through the dawn era
- Female Singer-Songwriters of the ’60s: Popular Songs Ranking [2026]
- Cool songs from the Showa era. Masterpieces from Showa that shine with sensuality, passion, and rugged charm.
- Debut songs by Japanese female artists [Shocking hits & must-know classics]
Debut Songs of Japanese Female Artists from the 70s (11–20)
age; the age range typical for adolescence or a particular stage in lifeYamaguchi Momoe
This is the memorable debut single of Momoe Yamaguchi, born from the show “Star Tanjō!” The lyrics were written by Kazuya Senke, with composition and arrangement by Shunichi Tokura.
It was a launch that carried the full weight of expectations as “the big Sony, the big new star.” The refreshing melody that evokes a sea breeze and the lyrics about a 14-year-old girl’s pure feelings of first love are a perfect match.
The moment you become aware of the one you like, the world suddenly looks more vivid—this song brings back that fresh, innocent sensation.
Precisely because this song existed, the shift in her subsequent works toward the slightly darker ‘Aoi Sei’ direction may have appeared all the more dramatic.
Yearning Soaked in Rainchiaki naomi
Naomi Chiaki, whose song “Kassai” was a massive hit.
From her debut up to her breakout hits, she made a deeply striking impression that seared itself into my memory.
Her vocal ability is highly acclaimed, and the way she sings—both meticulous and passionate—makes her presence truly dignified.
The crimson moon at twilightJudi Ongu
Judy Ong became a sensational hit with “Miserarete,” and her beautiful costumes, striking looks, and wonderful vocal ability made her very popular.
She was active in Japan despite coming from overseas, spoke Japanese well, and built a truly global career.
It’s likely no one expected that at the time of her debut.
Back then, I wasiruka
This is Iruka’s memorable debut single, released in 1974 when she began her solo career after the breakup of the Shrieks.
The lyrics and music were written by Shozo Ise of Kaguya-hime, marking the start of a brilliant career that would lead to a major hit the following year.
The gentle tones of the acoustic guitar evoke scenes from days gone by.
Now that we’re adults, we can understand the struggles born of youth and the vague anxieties about the future.
Many listeners may find themselves overlaying their own adolescence onto the “me back then” portrayed in the lyrics.
Iruka’s clear, transparent voice feels as if it affirms the slightly overreaching version of ourselves from that time, leaving our hearts warmly comforted.
Even if love diesYashiro Aki
This is the landmark debut single of Aki Yashiro, affectionately known as the “Queen of Enka.” Released in 1971, the song grabs your heart right from its striking opening phrase.
The unwavering, passionate feeling—choosing death over losing love—is delivered with heartrending intensity through that already fully formed husky voice from her debut days.
The expressive power she honed during her time as a club singer seems to meld perfectly with the dramatic melody, which evokes the atmosphere of a city after nightfall.
Perhaps the depth of emotion imbued in this song helped pave the way for her to become one of the greats.
Hide-and-seekIshikawa Sayuri
This is the memorable debut single released in 1973 by Sayuri Ishikawa, who would go on to become a leading figure in the enka world.
She was only 15 when the song came out! Quite different from the powerful image of “Tsugaru Strait – Winter Scene,” her charming, idol-like vocals here feel wonderfully fresh.
The nostalgic melody, reminiscent of a children’s song, pairs perfectly with lyrics that evoke faint memories of playing in back alleys at dusk.
It might even be overlaying the bittersweet feelings of first love for someone special with a game of hide-and-seek in search of “that child” who can no longer be found.
A sentimental track that lets you glimpse the precious starting point of a great singer.
Budding of LoveKousaka Miyuki
This is the memorable debut single of Miyuki Kosaka, who started out as a model and made a striking debut at the young age of 14.
The song was released in 1977.
Her clear, emotionally rich vocals sound remarkably mature for someone just 14.
The pure lyrics by Takashi Matsumoto, which depict the beginnings of love and fluttering excitement, are a perfect match with her exceptional singing ability.
The beautiful string arrangement by Yuyu Hoguche lends a refined atmosphere that goes beyond the realm of typical idol pop.
You can almost picture the scenes of a heart fluttering with the first signs of love.
It’s a gem of a track that hinted at the arrival of a true vocalist—more than just “cute,” an artist who wins you over with her voice.
Liar SeagullKobayashi Sachiko
Sachiko Kobayashi, now affectionately nicknamed the “final boss,” has even become popular with younger generations.
After the massive hit of her enka song Omoide-zake, she shot straight down the path to stardom.
Her debut song was one she sang in childhood, and even back then she was reputed for her vocal ability.
She still looks youthful today.
Right face!Ishikawa Hitomi
Hitomi Ishikawa’s catchphrase was “’78: The brightest Hitomi in the music world,” and she made her singing debut with this song in 1978.
From the time of her debut, her looks and vocal ability were highly praised—she was even chosen as the “’78 Mascot Girl” by the National Beauty All-Student Association, composed of 58 universities nationwide—and she earned overwhelming support, particularly among college students.
poppy flowerAgunesu Chan
Agnes Chan’s debut single was released in 1972.
It reached No.
5 on the Oricon Weekly Singles Chart and has become one of her signature songs, often performed when people do impressions of her.
In 1973, she made her first appearance at the 24th NHK Kouhaku Uta Gassen with this song.