[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!
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[J-Pop] Roundup of Popular Female Singer-Songwriters (1–10)
So it wasn’t me, huh.riria.
Lillia, whose love songs sung with a crystal-clear, angelic voice have drawn major attention, has become a hot topic.
She does not show her face, and she began pursuing music in earnest after seeing Koresawa, who also performs without revealing her face.
The heartbreaking lyrics of her 2020 release “I Was Cheated On, But I Still Love Him” garnered significant attention and gained popularity mainly on social media.
Her piercingly bittersweet tracks and highly relatable songs are said to be created based on comments from fans and her friends’ experiences.
In 2022, she also voiced the heroine in the anime film Bubble.
I’m crazy about youUtada Hikaru
Hikaru Utada has attracted countless fans over many years since her sensational debut at 15.
Her debut single, “Automatic/time will tell,” released in 1998, instantly went double million, electrifying not only music fans but all of Japan.
She went on to notch multiple million-selling hits, including “Addicted To You” and “Can You Keep A Secret?”.
In 2004, she made her U.S.
debut under the name Utada, and after resuming activities in Japan, she continued to release numerous tie-in songs, earning support from a wide range of generations.
Her uniquely enchanting voice—one that seems to whisk you away to another world—is a singular part of her appeal.
Partneryuka
Yuka’s poppy, cute vocals and songs leave a lasting impression.
The many cover songs she posted on Instagram drew attention, which gradually carried over to her original tracks as well.
She then gained popularity by actively holding solo concerts and releasing new music.
Beyond her songs, the friendly vibe she shares on Instagram is also one of her charms.
With music that gently embraces listeners’ love lives and everyday moments, she’s sure to continue attracting many fans!
[Japanese Pop] Roundup of Popular Female Singer-Songwriters (11–20)
Gentle LifeKaneko Ayano
Starting around 2010, Ayano Kaneko began her music career in earnest and quickly drew attention across the scene.
Influenced not only by Japanese rock bands from the 2000s but also by folk and rock from the 1970s and 1980s, she has crafted her distinctive musical style.
Her unadorned, unaffected singing voice delivers the lyrics’ message straight to listeners’ hearts.
Since her live performances are primarily with a full band, she’s an artist you’ll definitely want to experience in person.
Lock of the Water FlowNisshoku Natsuko
Natsuko Nisshoku is a singer-songwriter who performs in a piano-and-vocal style.
She often appears at music festivals across Japan, and since 2014 she has been performing regularly as a duo with komaki, the former drummer of tricot.
Her greatest appeal lies in her solid, resonant voice that carries from the mid-low range to the high register.
In addition, her piano playing—incorporating elements of jazz and classical and going well beyond simple accompaniment—is another highlight.
In particular, be sure to pay attention to the interplay with komaki’s drums during live performances.
Bring it on.Nakamura Emi
Nakamura Emi made her major-label debut in 2016.
Beyond pop, she draws on a wide range of musical backgrounds, influenced by hip-hop and reggae, and one of her charms is that many of her songs incorporate rap.
Of course, she also has tracks where she sings gently and tenderly, as well as songs that lift the energy with a powerful voice—her work has depth that keeps listeners engaged.
Drawing on her experience of working as a full-time employee while pursuing music, she often writes lyrics from the perspective of a working woman, resonating with many female fans.
boyfriendaiko
Aiko cheers on people in love with a wide range of romance songs, covering the bitter and the sweet.
Her buoyant vocals that flow from her cute appearance—and above all, the lyrics that seize the hearts of anyone struggling with love and never let go—are truly captivating! Her major-label debut single “Ashita,” released in 1998, was immediately chosen as a film’s theme song.
She followed it with a string of hits like “Kabutomushi” and “Boyfriend.” At her live shows, she fires up the audience with call-and-response not just of “Ladies!” and “Gentlemen!” but even “Glasses!” and “LASIK!” No matter how many years go by, Aiko’s powerful yet adorable songs will continue to support countless people in love!