[J-Pop] A roundup of popular female singer-songwriters

Dinner Songtuki.

tuki. “Banquet Song” Official Music Video

A featured young female singer, tuki., released this song in December 2023.

I must admit my ignorance: I listened to tuki.’s voice for the first time while preparing this piece, and I was truly amazed by her mature and exceptional vocals and singing—hard to believe she’s a 15-year-old junior high school student! When singing this song at karaoke, try to maintain a gentle, subdued warmth throughout, while clearly expressing contrasts in dynamics within that softness.

Even in the more powerful sections, be careful not to let your delivery become rough or harsh.

expand_lessRaise the rankingexpand_morelower

Kei Takahata

Report a problem

mid-20syui nishio

Yui Nishio “mid-20s” Official Music Video

Yui Nishio, who is based in Nagoya, is one of the hottest singer-songwriters right now.

She participated in the talent discovery project ‘SONG’S NAGOYA 2016’ in 2016, and went on to take part in a series of auditions, including ‘KimiUta — I Want to Hear Your Song —’ in 2017 and ‘Hanjuku Audition 2018’ in 2018.

Along the way, she steadily built her reputation and skills, and in 2022 she won the LINE NEWS AWARDS 2022.

Her clear, translucent voice is sure to capture your heart.

expand_lessRaise the rankingexpand_morelower

yamamoto

Report a problem

stoppage timeNoda Megumi

Aimi Noda – Lost Time (Official Lyric Video)

Singer-songwriter Emi Noda has been active in music since her student days, consistently achieving excellent results in various auditions.

In addition to her own work as a vocalist, she energetically contributes songs to other artists as well.

Her greatest appeal is undoubtedly her outstanding vocal ability that grabs your attention from the first listen.

More and more listeners are being captivated by her mature, atmospheric voice.

You can fully appreciate her charm not only in her original songs but also in the cover videos uploaded to her YouTube channel, so if you’re interested, be sure to check them out.

expand_lessRaise the rankingexpand_morelower

Hane Keisuke

Report a problem

God of RomanceHirose Kōmi

Kohmi Hirose – God of Romance (Official Video)

Kohmi Hirose is a singer-songwriter who has garnered attention on YouTube for her high level of musical sophistication and eccentric personality.

Her third single, “Romance no Kamisama,” used as the commercial song for the ski goods retailer Alpen, became a massive hit that led to her nickname “Queen of Winter.” The lyrics’ storyline reflects the era in which it was released and will likely feel nostalgic to those of that generation.

It’s also a great pick for karaoke, but since it’s quite a high-pitched song, be sure to sing it in a key that suits your voice.

expand_lessRaise the rankingexpand_morelower

Hoshino Takashi

Report a problem

SakuraMyuk

Myuk – Sakura (Music Video)

Singer-songwriter Myuk captivates listeners with her crystal-clear voice and delicate expressiveness.

While rooted in pop, she weaves in elements of electronica and alternative music to create a distinctive sound that appeals to a wide audience.

After making her major debut in 2021, she drew significant attention when she was selected to perform the ending theme for a popular anime.

A dedicated artist, she has studied piano and guitar since childhood and honed her craft at local live venues.

She actively shares updates via social media and video platforms, bringing her closer to fans both in Japan and abroad.

Her songs, marked by a transparent vocal quality and lyrics that depict everyday scenes, leave a lingering resonance that touches the heart.

She is highly recommended for those who wish to be quietly soothed by a delicate singing voice.

seesawtuki.

tuki. “Seesaw” Official Music Video

Singer-songwriter tuki., whose transparent vocals and delicate singing technique are bringing a fresh breeze to the music scene.

They began their music career in 2022 and have gained popularity through posts on YouTube and TikTok.

While rooted in J-pop, they have built a unique world with simple yet powerful melodies and striking lyrics.

Their mysterious style of performing without revealing their face has also drawn attention, and in December 2023, a collaboration with popular singer Yuuri surpassed 20 million views—an impressive achievement.

In January 2024, they appeared on NHK’s Kōhaku Uta Gassen and were also selected for Spotify’s “RADAR: Early Noise 2024,” marking them as a shining, highly skilled young artist of the moment.

With clear vocals and songs that resonate with the heart, they’re especially recommended for those who want to soothe their soul on a quiet night.

semicolonyama

yama『semicolon』Music Video

Yama, known for their clear, translucent singing voice, has been drawing a great deal of attention.

Although a mysterious artist who keeps their identity hidden, they enjoy overwhelming support—particularly from younger listeners—for a unique musical style that fuses digital and analog elements.

Grounded in electronica and indie rock, they skillfully blend programmed sounds with live instruments to explore new possibilities in music.

Their 2023 album “awake&build” delivered an innovative work that transcends conventional boundaries by merging band-driven sound with electronic production.

They have also collaborated with accomplished artists such as Sohei Mishima of cinema staff and Matt Cab.

With a crystalline, beautiful voice and literary lyrics that stir the heart, their music is a perfect match for listeners with a delicate, nuanced sensibility.