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A curated selection of stylish songs by Japanese female artists: the allure of sophisticated masterpieces

Songs by stylish female artists can instantly lift your mood just by listening, right? In this article, we’ll introduce chic songs by Japanese female artists who captivate with tasteful sounds and beautiful vocals.

You’ll find plenty of classics across J-POP, city pop, R&B, and more.

If you’re looking for high-quality tracks to accompany café time, drives, or relaxation, be sure to check these out.

You’re sure to be swept away by the lovely voices and sophisticated melodies!

A selection of stylish songs by Japanese female artists: the allure of sophisticated classics (1–10)

She and TIP ON DUOImai Miki

This is a famous song by Miki Imai that leaves a strong impression with its portrayal of an independent woman who gracefully moves on from heartbreak.

The lyrics were written by Yasushi Akimoto and the music composed by Chika Ueda, and the urban, smooth sound is wonderfully stylish.

While acknowledging where her former partner is now, the lyrics depict her stepping forward flexibly into her own future; combined with Imai’s transparent vocals, it’s a song that seems to breathe a refreshing breeze into the listener’s heart.

Released in August 1988, the track was used in a Shiseido campaign and became a major talking point.

Jun Sato, who arranged the piece, is also known for winning the Arranger Award at the 30th Japan Record Awards for this sophisticated production.

Why not enjoy this song as background music for a weekend drive or a relaxing café time?

Plastic LoveTakeuchi Mariya

Mariya Takeuchi – Plastic Love (Official Music Video)
Plastic LoveTakeuchi Mariya

This is one of Mariya Takeuchi’s signature numbers, evoking the glittering nights of the big city.

It’s included on her sixth album, VARIETY, released in 1984.

Her husband, Tatsuro Yamashita, handled the arrangement and production, crafting a track that delivers a superb city-pop sound.

Looking at the lyrics, they portray the loneliness of a woman who has lost true love; she pretends it’s just a casual fling, yet her heart remains unfulfilled.

The contrast with the glamorous sound is deeply moving.

It’s a classic that feels perfect for adding a stylish touch to everyday moments, like a drive or a slightly grown-up café time.

Garden feat. DJ KAORI, Diggy-MO’, Clench & BlistahMay J.

May J. / Garden feat. DJ KAORI, Diggy-MO’, Clench & Blista
Garden feat. DJ KAORI, Diggy-MO', Clench & BlistahMay J.

May J., a singer known for numerous hit covers.

This track is a number that reconstructs a classic 1990s R&B song into a dazzling party tune under the production of DJ KAORI.

While retaining the slightly bittersweet worldview of the original, it features star-studded guest appearances from artists like Diggy-MO’ and CLENCH & BLISTA, expressing the exhilaration of time spent with friends.

May J.’s soaring vocals and the cool back-and-forth with the rappers are must-hear, guaranteed to lift your spirits just by listening.

The album containing this song, “FAMILY,” was released in May 2009 and reached No.

4 on the Oricon Weekly Chart.

Its sophisticated sound will surely capture your heart, perfect for livening up a drive with friends or a glamorous party scene.

A collection of stylish songs by Japanese female artists: The allure of sophisticated classics (11–20)

GingerTOMOO

TOMOO – Ginger 【OFFICIAL MUSIC VIDEO】
GingerTOMOO

Singer-songwriter TOMOO, who has won popularity with a piano-centered sound and deeply insightful lyrics.

This song, which sings of feelings for a beloved presence, also exudes a stylish vibe.

It’s a comfortable pop tune that conveys a warm gaze—one that seems to affirm every aspect of that capricious someone, even while being tossed around by their whims.

Its message of loving someone just as they are gently wraps around the listener’s heart.

Released in August 2021, this track became one of TOMOO’s early signature works and helped propel her name into the spotlight.

It was later included on the album TWO MOON.

With its lively, memorable piano tones, it’s perfect as background music for a leisurely café break or a weekend drive, making the ordinary moments of daily life feel even more precious.

SOULS(Main)bird

bird – SOULS (Official Music Video)
SOULS(Main)bird

Singer-songwriter bird captivates listeners with her soulful voice.

This debut work marks the origin of the artist known for her high-sense, stylish songs.

Produced by Shinichi Osawa, it blends urbane, sophisticated R&B and house into a sound where a deep, soul-to-soul connection is expressed through her airy, husky vocals.

Released in March 1999, the track’s parent album, “bird,” sold over 700,000 copies.

A bossa nova–styled arrangement was also used as the theme song for the TV drama “Peach na Kankei.” It’s a timeless tune, perfect for slightly grown-up moments—like a drive or relaxing in a lounge with a beautiful night view.

cuteFujihara Sakura

Sakura Fujiwara – “Kawaii”
cuteFujihara Sakura

It’s a song with charmingly cute lyrics! One by singer-songwriter Sakura Fujiwara.

While it incorporates a jazzy vibe, its catchy and bright tone feels stylish and adorable.

Her smoky voice is part of the appeal, and it’s great for karaoke too.

It’s a song that lets you show both maturity and cuteness at the same time, don’t you think? Many of her fans are music enthusiasts, so if the guy you’re with likes music, singing this song might spark a conversation!

femme fatale Amurasaki ima

Murasaki Ima – Femme Fatale A (Music Video)
femme fatale Amurasaki ima

This song is packed with an exceptional Japanese flair.

Created by Murasaki Kon, it features lyrics that reimagine traditional ideals of beauty through a modern lens.

Musically, it skillfully fuses styles from different eras, spanning from Edo-period culture to K-pop.

Released digitally in April 2024, it quickly became a hot topic on social media.

On TikTok, it garnered around 20,000 posts and was used by many influencers.

This piece prompts reflection on what defines beauty.

It’s a must-listen for anyone who enjoys pop music infused with Japanese elements.