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 (11–20)

Starry NightYuka

Yuka – Starry Night (Official Music Video)
Starry NightYuka

This is a ballad with a romantic atmosphere, where Yuka’s voice resonates deeply in the heart.

The aching wish to reunite with a loved one is beautifully expressed alongside imagery of a starry sky.

It began airing on January 17, 2023 as the theme song for the TV Asahi drama “Hoshi Furu Yoru ni” (“On a Starry Night”), and also drew attention for being produced by Toru of ONE OK ROCK.

Released digitally on February 8, 2023, it is included on Yuka’s first album, “brighter.” It’s a song you’ll want to listen to on nights under the stars as you think of someone special, and it’s perfect for reflecting on memories with a partner or friends.

Wrapped in Yuka’s clear, transparent vocals, this track offers a heartwarming moment.

A Bouquet for YouUtada Hikaru

Released on April 15, 2016, this is Hikaru Utada’s fourth digital-only single.

It was chosen as the theme song for the NHK morning drama series “Toto Nee-chan.” Centered around a simple piano accompaniment, it beautifully highlights Utada’s heartrending vocals.

A medium-tempo ballad perfect for dedicating to someone special.

Because you are hereUru

[Official] Uru “Because You Are Here” — Theme Song for TBS Sunday Theater ‘Ship of Theseus’
Because you are hereUru

Speaking of Uru, she originally became known for uploading cover songs on YouTube and the like, right? Even back then, she had a strong reputation for her beautiful, crystal-clear voice and exceptional vocal ability, and many people likely feel soothed when they listen to that gorgeous singing.

Of course, her charm is fully on display in this song as well, and many listeners were probably captivated from the very first moment they heard it.

The track was chosen as the theme song for the drama “Theseus no Fune” (Ship of Theseus), and it may have been through this drama that many people first discovered her.

Unrequited lovemiwa

A ballad that portrays a heartrending love, seeping into the heart with its translucent vocals and the warm sound of the piano.

Included on the March 2012 album “guitarium,” it was selected as the ending theme for the music information program “saku saku” in February 2012.

The lyrics delicately express the feelings of a secret, unspoken crush and the bittersweet pain of being unable to get closer the more you care.

With a heartwarming melody that gently embraces the frustration of being unable to confess and the anxiety that everyone experiences when they fall in love, this song offers solace and support.

It’s a track we especially recommend to those who are keeping their feelings for someone special tucked away in their hearts.

EverythingMISIA

MISIA – Everything (Official HD Music Video)
EverythingMISIA

Released in 2000, this is MISIA’s biggest hit and a million-seller.

It was also the theme song for the drama “Yamato Nadeshiko,” and earned her first No.

1 on the Oricon charts.

Beloved in karaoke and often heard on music shows, the song resonates as if it embraces your emotions with MISIA’s vocal prowess and its classic, heartfelt melody.

While some say the lyrics depict a secret romance, the unwavering, certain love they convey feels profoundly beautiful.

hanatabamilet

milet “hanataba” Music Video (Theme song for TBS Sunday Drama “Antihero”)
hanatabamilet

Milet is known for her husky vocals and globally minded songwriting.

This track was written specifically as the theme song for the drama “Anti-Hero.” Featuring powerful vocals and delicate melodies, it delivers emotionally rich, dramatic pop music.

Released on June 5, 2024, the song embraces one’s own weaknesses while singing about the support of a loved one, and is sure to resonate with many listeners.

[Songs I Want Women to Sing!] Popular Ballads Sung by Female Artists (21–30)

OrionNakajima Mika

Mika Nakashima "ORION" Music Video
OrionNakajima Mika

When it comes to Japan’s queens of heartrending ballads, she’s the first who comes to mind.

The song became hugely popular as the theme for the hit drama “Ryūsei no Kizuna.” Its lyrics, which tie into the drama, were talked about for being almost unbearably bittersweet, and everyone is captivated by her clear, resonant voice and powerful delivery.

It’s a timeless masterpiece you’ll want to savor alone on a quiet night.