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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- Debut songs by female artists from the 1980s
- Debut songs by female Western artists from the 1990s
- Debut songs by Japanese female artists [Shocking hits & must-know classics]
- Debut songs by Japanese female artists from the 2000s
- A roundup introduction to the debut songs of female idols who debuted in the 2000s!
- Songs for Women in Their 30s to Sing: A Collection from the 90s to 00s
- Nostalgic Yet Everlasting: Classic Hits by 1990s Idol Singers
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- [J-Pop] Debut songs by male solo artists from the 1990s
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Looking back at the gem-like debut songs of female singers who debuted in 1990 (21–30)
love the islandSuzuki Ami
This is Ami Suzuki’s debut single, released in July 1998, which won the Grand Prix after garnering over 800,000 votes in a TV audition project.
Chosen as the Guam Visitors Bureau’s campaign song, it’s memorable for its refreshing sound that evokes summer sunshine.
The lyrics portray the delicate emotions of a girl flying across the sea to an unfamiliar island—her fluttering excitement mingled with the anxieties of love.
The image of the sandals she changes into at the airport seeming bashful feels like a sensibility unique to a young girl.
Her translucent vocals match the wistful melody perfectly.
The track is also included on the million-selling album SA.
It’s a song that brings back that rush of anticipation right before a summer departure.
P.S I miss youTakahashi Yoko
This is a gem of a ballad released in December 1991, marking the full-fledged solo debut of Yoko Takahashi, who would later gain immense acclaim for “A Cruel Angel’s Thesis.” It gives voice to the growing feelings for someone you long to see but cannot, and anyone who has experienced the heartache of a long-distance relationship will likely find it deeply moving.
The song was used as the image theme for the drama “Aitai Toki ni Anata wa Inai…” and later earned the Newcomer Award at the Japan Cable Radio Awards.
There’s also the memorable, unusual anecdote that the jacket photo wasn’t ready in time, so they used a picture of a wall clock instead.
On a quiet night when you can’t sleep as you think of someone dear, listening to this beautiful melody and vocal will surely offer gentle comfort to your heart.
Revisiting the gem-like debut songs of female singers who debuted in 1990 (31–40)
The Talent for LoveKawamoto Makoto
The debut song produced by the eccentric Yasuyuki Okamura brings out a rhythmic, up-tempo, and uniquely charming vibe.
Being able to present one’s own style so decisively right from the start surely speaks to real talent.
aloneShinohara Miyako
An arrangement centered on a piano-and-vocal style can only work if it has an exceptional melody and singing.
Her hallmark is the high sense of style that allowed her to achieve this atmosphere right from her debut, and she has since produced numerous smash hits.
Legendary GirlMizuki Arisa
She was 14 at the time of her debut, but with her cuteness and surprisingly great figure, she quickly became a very popular talent, and she actually delivers some pretty good songs.
This debut track also has a slow tempo and a quiet arrangement, but the melody is strong, and for something done as a side job by a TV personality, isn’t her singing quite good?
OrangeBONNIE PINK
BONNIE PINK’s debut song has a somewhat Shibuya-kei vibe, capturing the very atmosphere of the ’90s.
Considering her later work, it might even feel like she’s singing a bit reservedly, but you can still hear her clear, transparent vocals.
Velfarre Dance in LoveMAX
A laid-back debut track made with disco music of the time squarely in mind.
Thanks in part to its unexpected success, they went on to stay active for a while afterward.
I think another reason was that all the members showed great personalities on variety shows as well…