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.
- 1970s Female Singer-Songwriters: Popular Songs Ranking [2026]
- Nostalgic Japanese hit songs from the 1970s: the golden age of idols and kayōkyoku (Japanese pop songs)
- Debut song of a 1970s idol
- Classic and hit songs by nostalgic Japanese idols from the 1970s
- Top 1980s Female Singer-Songwriters: Popular Songs Ranking [2026]
- [1970s] Collection of Japanese hit songs. Nostalgic masterpieces of Japan
- Debut songs by female artists from the 1980s
- [Showa Kayō] A roundup of Japanese love songs that hit in the 1970s
- [70s Western Music] Timeless Masterpieces and Popular Songs by Female Singers
- [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)
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.
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.
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.
Debut songs of Japanese female artists from the 70s (21–30)
Lost roadWatanabe Machiko
In the late 70s and throughout the 80s, Machiko Watanabe became a hitmaker.
Her debut song was a massive hit, and her overwhelming vocal prowess left a strong impression.
The songs she released afterward also became hits, and she grew into an artist everyone knew.