Looking back at the gem-like debut songs of female singers who debuted in 1990
The year 1990, which marked the beginning of the Heisei era, saw the emergence of numerous female artists on the music scene, leaving a significant legacy in Japan’s music world thereafter.
Many were recognized as powerful talents from their debut and etched brilliant records in Japanese music history, with some still active on the front lines today.
The distinctive voices and highly original debut songs of these artists are surely still etched deeply in the hearts of many people.
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Looking back at the finest debut songs by female singers who debuted in 1990 (1–10)
Feel My HeartEvery Little Thing
This is Every Little Thing’s debut song, one that sings sincerely about the precious resolve to live honestly, without fear—so vividly you can almost feel your heart pounding.
In a world where reality and falsehood intertwine, its sparkling synth sound carries home the importance of staying positive and not being afraid to fail.
Released in August 1996, many will remember it as the song from the Vernal commercial and the ending theme for COUNT DOWN TV.
With its exhilarating, fast-paced melody, this track is sure to give you the courage to keep moving forward without fear when you’re feeling down.
STOP MOTIONDaikoku Maki
Although it is Maki Ohguro’s own debut single, this song was actually provided earlier to another artist and is also a self-cover.
Her powerful vocals that stand up to the hard guitar are emblematic of Maki Ohguro’s signature style.
Body And SoulSPEED
Even though it was their debut single, they went all the way overseas to shoot the music video—that’s how much effort they put in.
I think they were in elementary or junior high school at the time, but this kind of powerful vocal is very rare.
Back then, artists from Okinawa were debuting one after another.
Looking back at the gem-like debut songs of female singers who debuted in 1990 (11–20)
HeavenChara
Chara’s debut song, distinguished by an arrangement with the acid jazz vibe that was popular from the mid to late ’80s.
Her signature melodic sensibility and phrasing were already evident at this early stage, confirming that the core of her artistry was firmly in place.
tomorrowaiko
Because of the serious mood of the song, you can hardly tell it’s aiko in the A-melody, yet it’s clear her individuality has stood out since her debut.
However, here “debut” refers to her major-label debut; long-time fans may consider even earlier songs to be her true debut.
as if gently envelopingMISIA
MISIA made a sensational debut with her overwhelming vocal prowess.
Her slow-tempo R&B ballads are tender yet powered by a strong rhythm, and the vinyl edition sold out immediately.
Around this time, we also started hearing more tracks by Japanese artists in clubs.
for a long timeKiroro
Kiroro’s debut single overflows with the joy and love of finally being able to express one’s feelings, and with gratitude toward the person who waited.
The harmony woven by Chiharu Tamashiro’s endlessly pure vocals and Ayano Kinjo’s warm piano tones gently wraps around the listener’s heart.
Released in January 1998, the song became a massive hit through word of mouth despite having no tie-ins, ultimately selling over 1.2 million copies.
In the spring of 1999, it was selected as the entrance march for the National High School Baseball Invitational Tournament.
It’s a song that gives you a gentle push when you find it hard to say “thank you” to someone important.