RAG MusicBallad
Lovely ballad

[Songs I'd love women to sing!] Popular ballads performed by female artists

Many women say they love singing ballads, don’t they?

At karaoke, there are times when you don’t just want to hype up the room with upbeat tracks—you also want to deliver something tender and heartfelt.

So in this article, we’re introducing ballad songs by Japan’s leading female artists!

We’ve picked a wide range: from universally known masterpieces and timeless staples to the latest hits.

If you’re thinking, “I want to know popular ballads I can sing at karaoke,” or “I’m looking for Japanese ballads sung by women,” be sure to check this out.

Each track is unique yet soothing and moving—songs that heal our hearts and leave a lasting impression.

[Songs We Want Women to Sing!] Popular Ballads Sung by Female Artists (121–130)

lensIkuta Rira

Rira Ikuta “Lens” Official Music Video
lensIkuta Rira

A ballad written under her solo name by singer-songwriter Lila Ikuta, who also performs as the vocalist of YOASOBI.

It’s the theme song for the TV drama “Is Love Sustainable? ~A Father and Daughter’s Marriage March~,” and it’s filled with feelings for someone dear.

The delicate lyrics portray the joy and flutter of a one-sided love, along with its bittersweetness, making it a heartwarming love song that gently envelops the listener.

Picture someone special to you, and try singing it tenderly and with a free, expansive voice!

butterfly effectNoda Megumi

Emi Noda – butterfly effect (Official Music Video) [Promise: The Truth in the 16th Year – Theme Song]
butterfly effectNoda Megumi

It’s a highly message-driven song that feels as if it stays close to the listener’s heart and offers words of encouragement.

The butterfly-themed lyrics are striking, evoking courage and hope in the face of hardship.

Emi Noda’s clear, pure vocals further enhance the song’s world.

Released on May 2, 2024, the track was also chosen as a TV drama’s theme song.

It’s a piece that fully showcases Noda’s talent as a singer-songwriter.

When you find yourself at a crossroads in life, this is a powerful song that feels like it gives you a gentle push forward—be sure to give it a listen.

Give me a gentle kiss.DREAMS COME TRUE

DREAMS COME TRUE – “Give Me a Gentle Kiss”
Give me a gentle kiss.DREAMS COME TRUE

DREAMS COME TRUE, also known as DoriCam, is a duo loved across generations, consisting of Miwa Yoshida and Masato Nakamura.

Their song “Yasashii Kiss o Shite” was chosen as the theme for the TBS drama Sand no Utsuwa, starring Masahiro Nakai.

It’s a melancholic yet dramatic number that resonates with the drama’s much-talked-about story of fate’s twists and turns.

While DCT’s uplifting tracks are great, Miwa Yoshida—renowned for her vocal prowess—also shines in tender, heartfelt ballads.

I highly recommend picking this one for karaoke.

I miss you. (I want to see you.)Te ga kuriimu pan

I Want to See You / Hands Like Cream Bread (I want to see you / tegacreampan) [Official Music Video]
I miss you. (I want to see you.)Te ga kuriimu pan

Singer-songwriter Tegakurimpan gained attention by uploading self-performed cover videos of various artists’ songs as well as original pieces on social media.

Released on December 29, 2021, “Aitai na” features a clear, airy voice and a melody that feels wonderfully soothing.

Its lyrics, which portray the sentimental emotions of unrequited love, are likely to resonate with many listeners.

With a simple arrangement of just piano and strings, it’s a ballad that lets you fully immerse yourself in its world even when singing it at karaoke.

[Songs We Want Women to Sing!] Popular Ballads Sung by Female Artists (131–140)

Kiss me and hold meMISIA

Kiss Me and Hold Me (from THE SUPER TOUR OF MISIA Live Ver.)
Kiss me and hold meMISIA

A song included on MISIA’s first album, “Mother Father Brother Sister,” released on June 24, 1998.

It’s a track you’ll want to listen to alone at midnight while thinking of someone special.

A beautiful slow ballad with simple guitar accompaniment and vocals.

dearestKOH+

This is the KOH+ version of “Saiai,” which Masaharu Fukuyama also sings.

It’s a gentle, heartrending ballad, and Kou Shibasaki—who is also an actress—pours her feelings into it, singing tenderly with a truly beautiful voice.

Her singing is so pleasing it almost feels like she’s speaking lines.

Last sceneikimonogakari

Ikimono-gakari “Last Scene” Music Video
Last sceneikimonogakari

“Your Lie in April” is a coming-of-age story that depicts the protagonist overcoming his trauma after meeting a certain girl.

The song “Last Scene” was chosen as the movie’s theme.

It portrays the pain, sadness, and strength of living in a world without someone important.

When I listen to this song after a breakup, I end up crying from how much I relate, and in the end it makes me feel like moving forward—just like the last part of the song.

Ikimono-gakari is widely known across generations, so it’s a great pick for karaoke too!