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 gem-like debut songs of female singers who debuted in 1990 (21–30)
CountdownCocco
This was Cocco’s striking major-label debut single, released in March 1997, and it’s also included on the album “Bougainvillea.” Twenty years after its release, in 2017, it became known for being performed on television for the first time on Music Station.
The lyrics depict the final moments of a man and woman whose love and hate have reached the extreme.
Set to a tense sound that feels like a countdown to ruin has begun, the protagonist’s raging emotions, as they force the other person to make an ultimate choice, are sure to shake listeners to their core.
On nights when you feel overwhelmed by inescapably complex emotions, it might be nice to immerse yourself in this one-of-a-kind world.
HORIZONUA
UA’s debut single is like gently shining a light on the voice deep within one’s heart.
The airy sound crafted by Hiroshi Fujiwara and Hirofumi Asamoto melds with her one-of-a-kind vocals—both wistful and untamed—to create a singular sonic world.
Released in June 1995, this track marked the first time UA wrote her own lyrics and became a milestone that declared her resolve as a singer.
Although it never entered the charts, it sent shockwaves through the scene; producer Kiyoshi Matsuo later said it “changed the course of music.” It’s the perfect song for moments when you’re starting something new or need the strength to believe in yourself.
Rapturous BluePoketto Bisuketsu
This is the landmark debut single from Pocket Biscuits, a group that tore through the music scene with a passion that’s hard to believe came from a TV show concept.
Released in April 1996, the single sold over 500,000 copies in total.
Its synth-driven sound, reminiscent of ’80s Western dance music, sticks in your head after just one listen.
The color blue becomes a vessel for youthful impulse and slightly grown-up infatuation, all conveyed through CHIAKI’s soaring vocals.
There’s a famous story that she was so determined to write the lyrics that she brought along a hundred notebooks to plead her case in person—an anecdote that seems to speak to the pure energy poured into this track.
It’s the kind of song that will surely stir your heart when you’re ready to take on a challenge or just want a little spark in your everyday life.
MIND CIRCUSNakatani Miki
Produced by Ryuichi Sakamoto, this work is notable for its urban, weightless sound.
Miki Nakatani’s cool, translucent vocals resonate like a kaleidoscope reflecting inner landscapes, instantly drawing listeners into its world.
Many will likely find themselves deeply absorbed by the song’s almost philosophical lyrics.
Released as a single in May 1996, the track colored the story as an insert song for the drama “Watch Out for Us,” in which Nakatani herself played the heroine.
Its 11-week run on the Oricon charts stands as proof of its appeal.
Why not listen to it on a night when you want to step away from the city’s clamor and have a quiet conversation with your own heart?
I don’t need promises.Sakamoto Maaya
Set to a fantastical orchestral score, this debut track by Maaya Sakamoto features a crystal-clear voice that resonates deep in the heart.
The lyrics portray a poised form of love—one that doesn’t bind the future with firm promises, but instead feels connected simply by trusting the other person.
It’s remarkable how her expressive power—unbelievable for a 16-year-old at the time—harmonizes perfectly with the song’s grand worldview.
Released as a single in April 1996, it was used as the opening theme for the anime The Vision of Escaflowne.
Marking her encounter with composer Yoko Kanno, it became a milestone that launched her brilliant career as a singer.
When you’re facing a new challenge and feeling a little unsure, or when you want to reaffirm the bond with someone important, listening to this song might gently give you a push forward.
Tomorrow, when spring comesMatsu Takako
This is the memorable debut single of Takako Matsu, who had already earned high acclaim as an actress.
Released in March 1997, it was also featured in an NTT commercial and became a hit, selling about 500,000 copies.
The warm, springlike melody—like sunlight filtering through the trees—matches perfectly with her clear, translucent voice.
The lyrics depict bittersweet memories of days gone by and a poignant longing for someone dear.
The scenes from those days, when you simply watched “you” devoted to your passion, come vividly to mind.
Listening to it in the season when farewells and new encounters intersect—graduations, new beginnings—might fill your heart with both nostalgia and hope for the future.
Love is a chansonShinohara Ryōko
It’s a stylish dance number covering a classic of 1970s European pop.
Released in January 1991, this track was Ryoko Shinohara’s memorable solo debut single.
It vividly portrays a straightforward, passionate desire to rekindle the flames with a lover.
Her slightly grown-up, reaching-for-maturity vocal tone meshes perfectly with the moody atmosphere of the original chanson.
The song was later included on the best-of album “Sweets – Best of Ryoko Shinohara-.” Listen to it on a slightly sentimental night, and the forgotten thrill of love just might come rushing back.
It’s a song that could give you courage when you want to face love with an open heart.