Masterpieces about girls: recommended popular songs

prima donnaJenīhai

Primadonna

This song explores the strength of a spotlighted protagonist and the loneliness and inner conflict hidden behind it.

It portrays emotions that waver between the resolve to embrace solitude in order to be someone others envy, and the fragile heart that cannot forgive itself, set to a progressive pop sound.

The track is included on the acclaimed 2019 November release Jenny High Story.

It’s a song that offers deep companionship to those who feel pressure and loneliness as they pursue their dreams.

Dear Lonely GirlKato Miria

Miliyah Kato 'Dear Lonely Girl'

This song is a powerful message to peers who grapple with loneliness and a yearning for self-expression.

It declares that it’s okay to be naive or cheeky—be yourself—and her heartfelt cry resonated with many listeners.

Released in March 2005 as her third single, it was also included on the album “Rose.” The track also serves as an answer song to ECD’s work, and when you listen to it in moments of feeling misunderstood or lonely, it offers a gentle warmth that feels like a reassuring push forward.

GibbsShiina Ringo

Shiina Ringo – Gibbs

A song by Ringo Sheena said to have been written when she was 17, before her debut.

Released in January 2000, it drew attention as her first ballad single.

The complex emotions of romance and the fragility of human relationships are portrayed through her uniquely distinctive worldview.

It delicately expresses the feelings of a woman in love—her resistance to moments turning into the past when captured in photos, and her doubts about the word “absolute.” It debuted at No.

3 on the Oricon charts and reportedly surpassed 400,000 copies in first-week sales.

It’s a perfect song for women troubled by love, as well as for men who want to understand a woman’s heart.

Princess GaLHamano Haruki

Hamano Haruki「Princess GaL」(Official Music Video)

A princess isn’t just someone who waits for a prince! This is a song by Haruki Hamano that celebrates the image of a strong, modern woman.

It’s thrillingly empowering with a bold “gal” mindset that turns even painful love and irritating experiences into personal charm.

Released in April 2024 as the culmination of a six-month consecutive release project, the track is also included on the EP “LovE ToXic.” When you’re feeling a bit worn out by the glittery princess ideal, give this a listen—you might just find a shine that’s uniquely your own.

moonlightOnitsuka Chihiro

Chihiro Onitsuka – Gekkou (Moonlight)

This song is also known as the theme for the first season of the TV Asahi drama TRICK.

It carries a philosophical atmosphere that conveys a woman’s feelings toward the world.

At the time of its release, Chihiro Onitsuka was 19 years old, a period of transition between adolescence and adulthood, and she expressed her view of the world through her distinctive lyrics and vocals.

Chocolate DiscoPerfume

[Official Music Video] Perfume “Chocolate Disco”

This is a song by Perfume that’s well-known as a staple for Valentine’s Day.

It vividly captures familiar dynamics from the season, like “girls who are calculating vs.

boys who are genuinely excited about getting chocolate,” and “girls who excitedly prepare for Valentine’s while boys pretend not to notice.” Released in 2007, the track blends Perfume’s signature techno sound with a catchy pop melody and is highly popular among fans.

As Valentine’s Day approaches, it’s a tune you’ll find yourself humming without thinking.

Don’t you feel a little flutter wondering which role you’ll end up experiencing this Valentine’s?

Koto no Haayaka

Ayaka / “Kotonoha” Music Video (Short Ver.)

Ayaka’s signature song, infused with the power of words.

Its warm message of connecting hearts through letters resonates deeply with listeners.

Released in May 2017 as the theme song for the NHK drama “Tsubaki Stationery Store: Kamakura Daishoya Monogatari,” the track was written and composed by Ayaka herself, and its music video—featuring over 100 illustrations she drew—also drew attention.

The lyrics, which capture unspoken feelings for someone dear, are especially memorable and offer comfort to anyone who wishes they could go back and say what they left unsaid.

Give it a listen when you feel like reflecting on memories with a loved one or family.