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)
AutomaticUtada Hikaru
This is the lead single that went on to achieve sales figures that set a Japanese record for a debut album—numbers that will likely never be surpassed.
Many people probably still haven’t forgotten the shock it caused.
I believe the reason is not simply that it mimicked American programmed R&B, but that it also retained a hint of the kayōkyoku (Japanese pop) vibe.
POWER OF LOVEJUDY AND MARY
This is JUDY AND MARY’s major-label debut single, released in September 1993, where YUKI’s airy vocals and the deliberately sparse arrangement create a unique sonic world.
Its experimental structure, markedly different from their later hits, likely left many listeners puzzled at the time.
The unadorned lyrics sing of the impatience and loneliness felt in a corner of the city, yet quietly affirm the latent energy within the listener.
Although it debuted modestly at No.
95 on the Oricon chart, it stands as the band’s origin, later included on their first album, “J•A•M.” When you’re hesitating to take a step forward or want to trust your authentic self, this work is sure to gently nudge you from behind.
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.
Looking back at the gem-like debut songs of female singers who debuted in 1990 (11–20)
Man & WomanMy Little Lover
Released in May 1995, this was My Little Lover’s debut single, and despite being newcomers, it became a hit with total sales of about 917,000 copies.
Its light, stylish sound reminiscent of French pop blends beautifully with Akko’s translucent vocals.
The song seems to depict the subtle emotional shifts between men and women—the missed connections, and yet the irresistible pull toward one another.
Later included on the classic album “evergreen,” which went on to sell over two million copies, this track captured many hearts.
It’s a song that gently accompanies that slightly sentimental feeling where hope and anxiety mingle just before love begins.
Feelings for youtsuji ayano
This is the title track of Ayano Tsuji’s major-label debut mini-album, known for its light ukulele tones and her charming, faintly nostalgic singing voice.
When this work was released in September 1999, she was still a university student.
Wanting to tell someone you care about them, yet not quite finding the right words—the sweet, bittersweet feelings are sung over a simple, unadorned melody.
The story that she chose the ukulele over the guitar because her hands are small hints at the roots of her musical style.
From this classic release, Feelings for You, came songs featured in a Morinaga Milk Industry commercial and as a TV drama ending theme.
This album gently accompanies the pure heart that thinks of someone dear.
It’s perfect for moments when you want to feel calm and at ease.
I can’t stay a daydreaming girlAikawa Nanase
This is Nanase Aikawa’s debut single, shocking with its razor-sharp intro guitar riff and a powerful shout you’d never expect from such a petite frame.
You can really feel the searing resolve: she refuses to be someone who just keeps dreaming sweet dreams.
The way she sings of the ache of longing for love while vowing to charge through reality without fear of getting hurt must have made a striking impact on the music scene at the time.
Released in November 1995, the song was used as the ending theme for the Fuji TV drama “V no Honō” (Flame of V).
Her first album Red, which includes this track, became a massive hit, selling over 2.45 million copies.
If you’re wishing to break through the status quo and become stronger, listening to it might give you a powerful push forward.
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.