![[J-Pop] A roundup of popular female singer-songwriters](https://i.ytimg.com/vi_webp/Wb7ExzxOAKo/maxresdefault.webp)
[J-Pop] A roundup of popular female singer-songwriters
The amazing thing about singer-songwriters is, after all, that they can do everything themselves, right?
They write lyrics and compose, then perform their own songs—and some even handle the artwork like CD jackets, work as models, or host radio shows.
Their versatility is honestly astonishing.
In this article, we’ll be introducing popular female singer-songwriters from Japan.
From seasoned veterans to rising stars, you’ll find well-known musicians from a wide range of generations!
[J-Pop] Roundup of Popular Female Singer-Songwriters (1–10)
To You at DawnTOMOO
Singer-songwriter TOMOO, who was also selected for Spotify’s playlist showcasing the next breakout artists, “RADAR: Early Noise.” Her music is characterized by a band sound in which she sings while playing the piano, and her rich, resonant lower-mid register over piano rock is particularly captivating.
A skilled artist with a track record that includes starting piano at age six and composing songs since middle school.
Beyond her musicality, the profound worldview of her lyrics is also a major draw, so be sure to listen to her songs while reading the lyrics.
The Wheat SongNakajima Miyuki
For many years, Miyuki Nakajima has released numerous captivating songs as a female singer-songwriter.
She made her major debut in 1975 with Azami Jō no Lullaby and went on to release many hit songs that have been loved for decades, such as Jidai, Wakare-uta, and Akujo.
In addition, when Chijō no Hoshi—released in 2000 as the theme song for NHK’s Project X: Challengers—became a hit, she achieved the remarkable feat of reaching No.
1 on the Oricon charts across five different decades.
Songs she wrote and composed for other artists, such as TOKIO’s Sorafune and Shizuka Kudo’s Dōkoku, were also massive hits and continue to be loved across generations.
unfinishedieiri reo
Singer-songwriter Leo Ieiri suddenly appeared on the scene with the 2012 release of “Sabrina.” Many music fans likely still remember the shock of that moment vividly.
Countless listeners were instantly drawn in by the song’s curious addictiveness and her overwhelming vocal power.
Looking through the discography she’s continued to build with one release after another, you’ll find plenty of tracks you’ve probably heard before.
From ballads to up-tempo numbers, her songs are captivating in any style—so be sure to explore a variety of them.
tobacco / cigarette(s)Koresawa
Koresawa, whose songs candidly express a girl’s honest feelings, has been gaining popularity.
Listeners strongly relate to the many frank confessions delivered in her cute singing voice.
Her 2017 digital release “Tabako” became a big hit, and in the same year she made her major-label debut with the album “Korekara.” She has continued to attract fans with numerous songs released since then, including “Koibito Shikkaku” and “Atashi wo Kanojo ni Shitai nara.” Because she does not show her face publicly, a bear girl character named “Reko” usually appears and acts as Koresawa.
She also engages in humor-filled activities, such as forming a band with popular yuru-chara like Fukka-chan and Shinjō-kun, and participating in projects with figures like Cha Kato and ROLLY.
RudeOmori Seiko
Seiko Oomori began her career as a solo singer-songwriter and now actively produces idols and writes songs for other artists.
She’s also known for being a member of the idol group ZOC, which she herself produces.
The greatest appeal of her music lies in the lyrics, crafted from her unique worldview.
From “Rude,” an anthem for life, to many other tracks that strike a chord with listeners, her songs resonate deeply.
Another major draw is the catchiness of her melodies.
In particular, the melody line of one of her signature songs, “Zettai Zetsubou Zekkouchou,” is guaranteed to stick in your head after just one listen!
Come, spring.Matsutōya Yumi
She, who has long led Japan’s pop scene, is a household-name artist.
Her popular songs are too numerous to list—“Haru yo, Koi,” “Hikoukigumo,” “Midsummer Night’s Dream,” and many more.
One of the great appeals of her work is an approachable quality that naturally seeps into the heart no matter which song you listen to, which is surely one reason she has been loved by so many listeners for years.
Another charm is her voice, instantly recognizable for its distinctive timbre and said to exhibit 1/f fluctuations.
It’s no wonder so many people find her singing soothing!
heartaimyon
Aimyon has been winning popularity—especially among younger generations—with melodies that feel both simple and powerful.
Inspired by artists like Takuro Yoshida and Shogo Hamada, she’s known for her memorable style of singing while playing the guitar.
After making her indie debut in 2015 with “Anata Kaibō Jun’aika ~Shine~,” she made her major-label debut a year later in 2016 with “Ikiteitandayona.” Since then, she has released a number of hit songs, including “Marigold” and “Hadaka no Kokoro.” As a songwriter and composer, she has also provided tracks such as “Neko” for DISH// and “Something New” for Johnny’s WEST.