A Japanese female singer with excellent singing ability; an outstanding vocalist.
Even when we say someone is “a good singer,” that can mean many different things.
They might have astonishingly steady pitch, a superhuman vocal range, exquisite sense of rhythm, or a truly overwhelming voice.
This time, I’ve picked out female singers who are widely regarded as “great” from various angles like these, as well as female singers who, from my years of experience as a vocal producer and voice coach, make me think, “She’s outstanding!”
Of course, a singer’s appeal doesn’t necessarily lie only in technical skill.
But every now and then, isn’t it nice to listen with a focus on “skill”?
I hope this will be helpful for those who aspire to become singers as well.
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Skilled singers. Japanese female vocalists with high singing ability (121–130)
companion on the road; fellow traveler; taking someone along (often unwillingly)Makimura Mieko
Mieko Makimura is an enka singer from Bibai, Hokkaido.
She debuted in 1972 and is known for hit songs such as “Michizure.” Her talent is beyond question, with achievements like remaining in the top 20 of the Oricon Weekly Singles Chart for 38 consecutive weeks from 1979 to 1980.
From 1981 to 1984, she performed at NHK’s Kōhaku Uta Gassen for four consecutive years, establishing herself as a leading figure in the enka world.
Around 2002, she developed cirrhosis of the liver and esophageal varices, underwent about two years of treatment, and resumed her singing career in 2004.
She also overcame breast cancer, and her strength in overcoming numerous hardships is one of her many charms.
She is recommended not only for enka fans but also for those seeking the courage to overcome life’s difficulties.
ButterflyKōda Kumi
Kumi Koda is known for her overwhelming vocal prowess and distinctive style.
She debuted in 2000 with “Take Back” and quickly drew attention with hits like “real Emotion” and “Butterfly.” In 2005, she achieved the remarkable feat of releasing singles for 12 consecutive weeks in her “12 Singles Project.” Since then, she has continued to win numerous awards and exert a major influence on Japan’s music scene.
Excelling across R&B, rock, and dance, her appeal lies in her powerful, sexy vocals and expressive performance.
Having been immersed in the arts since the age of three, she not only sings but also plays piano and guitar, demonstrating a deep understanding of music.
She is highly recommended for those seeking powerful vocals and captivating stage presence.
Friday’s Free FairAkao Kazushige (Terra Rosa)
She may be something of a well-kept secret in general, but she’s the lead singer of the Japanese stylistic hard rock band TERRA ROSA.
For those unfamiliar with the band, quite a few listeners might think, “Wait, isn’t this a male vocalist?” Her voice holds its own against the intensely distorted guitars and the heavily overdriven organ—one of TERRA ROSA’s trademarks—without ever being overpowered.
I’ve chatted with Ms.
Akao several times and even done some casual recording with her, and she’s told me she actually wants to sing in a more feminine style (laughs).
She’s a truly outstanding singer whom anyone aiming to be an HM/HR vocalist should listen to at least once!
IgnoreIkuta Erika
Erika Ikuta is known as an artist with a clear, beautiful singing voice and solid technique.
She debuted in 2011 as a first-generation member of Nogizaka46 and, alongside her idol activities, also thrived as a musical theater actress.
After graduating from Nogizaka46 in 2021, she transitioned to a solo career.
In 2024, she released her first EP, “capriccioso,” establishing a unique world that fuses her classical roots with pop music.
Having studied piano since childhood, she boasts numerous accolades, including being a prizewinner in the Piano Division of the 21st Japan Classical Music Competition and receiving the 8th Tokiko Iwatani Encouragement Award.
With a wide repertoire ranging from musical theater classics to pop, Ikuta’s expressive voice captivates listeners’ hearts.
Her music is highly recommended for those seeking encounters with beautiful sound.
Great singers. Japanese female vocalists with high singing ability (131–140)
tears showerHarada Yuuri
As expected from a disciple of Saburo Kitajima, his vocal ability is guaranteed.
Even with enka, which can get heavy and sticky if you pour in too much emotion, Harada can convey feeling while holding back—that exquisite balance is the mark of a pro.
Among his recent songs, I think this one is packed with Harada’s appeal.
crescent moonayaka
Ayaka, known for her overwhelming vocal prowess, is a singer-songwriter from Osaka who debuted in 2006 with “I believe.” She is active in the J-POP genre and excels at vocals and piano.
Since her debut, she has produced many hit songs, and her first album, “First Message,” achieved million-selling status.
In 2009, she married actor Hiro Mizushima and announced that she had Graves’ disease, leading to a temporary hiatus.
She established her own label in 2011 and resumed her activities.
Ayaka’s appeal lies in her powerful voice and emotionally direct singing.
Believing that singing is about “conveying and delivering to people’s hearts,” her performances move many listeners.
She is highly recommended for those who love to sing and for anyone who wants to experience a deeply moving voice.
UFOpinku redii
This was Pink Lady’s sixth single, released in December 1977.
Among the string of hits they produced during their massive boom, this was their biggest, and its impact was enormous.
If you were in your late 40s to around 50 as of 2020, you probably remember scenes of almost all the girls in your class singing and dancing to this song (lol).
Although Pink Lady was treated purely as an idol group at the time, their vocal ability—foundational technique as well as expressive singing—was remarkable.
It’s one of those songs that offers a glimpse into the high level of talent among Showa-era idols.