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 Western artists from the 1990s
- Debut songs by Japanese female artists [Shocking hits & must-know classics]
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Looking back at the finest debut songs by female singers who debuted in 1990 (1–10)
The Theory of HappinessShiina Ringo
Compared to Shiina Ringo’s later work and songs, her debut track leaves quite a different impression.
Even so, this “Fortune Theory” is also one of her popular songs.
The lyrics were written based on her own romantic experiences.
And the distinctive direction of the promotional video likewise showcases her extraordinary talent.
Good bye My LonelinessZARD
The debut single by the legendary artist ZARD, whose absence I still can’t believe.
Even at this early stage, you can already hear Izumi Sakai’s fully developed singing voice.
This song is also known for the unusual phenomenon that, after its initial entry, its ranking on the Oricon charts kept rising as time went on.
Love, Day After TomorrowKuraki Mai
Mai Kuraki’s debut single was, for a while after its release, noted for its similarities to Hikaru Utada.
However, the quality of their vocals is quite different, and I think the resemblance is limited to the programmed R&B-style arrangement.
This song, in its own right, feels very fresh and vibrant.
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.
Poker FaceHamasaki Ayumi
In their prime, they were characterized by Americanized celebrity fashion and song structures, but around this time their voice, though leaning husky, conveyed a pure sense of transparency.
Additionally, prior to that they were engaged in so-called idol activities, which feels very much of its era.
Season of the SunAmuro Namie
This song is her first track after switching from Super Monkey’s to a solo career, effectively serving as her debut.
Since it’s a Japanese cover of a well-known Eurobeat song with virtually the same arrangement, it gives the impression that expectations may not have been very high.
Even so, the sharpness is remarkable, and her later success makes perfect sense.
Keep Yourself AliveKahara Tomomi
Their debut song produced by Tetsuya Komuro.
It seems Ms.
Kahala herself requested that the melody be set quite high, and indeed it’s a song that’s rather hard to sing at karaoke.
It went on to sell several hundred thousand copies in total, and you could say its sound fit the era perfectly.