Top Female Singer-Songwriters and Popular Songs of the 2000s [2026]

Love ForeverKatō Miriya × Shimizu Shōta29rank/position

Miliyah Kato × Shota Shimizu “Love Forever”

Released in May 2009, this is a bittersweet R&B love song by Miliyah Kato and Shota Shimizu.

The lyrics unfold as a duet from both male and female perspectives, portraying the joy and sorrow of love at the same time.

The contrast between the happiness of meeting and the pain of parting is interwoven, with the imagery of memories continuing to shine like stars leaving a strong impression.

The song won Best Collaboration Video at the MTV VMAJ 2010.

It’s a perfect track for when you want to feel the poignancy of romance or look back on memories with someone special.

AutomaticUtada Hikaru30rank/position

Hikaru Utada – Automatic

Utada Hikaru’s debut single stylishly expresses the feeling of overflowing love that can’t be contained just by being near someone.

It portrays the pure emotions of waiting for the phone to ring and the sense of relief that comes from hearing the other person’s voice, vividly capturing the complex heart of a girl in love, where joy and anxiety intertwine.

Released in December 1998, the song was used as the ending theme for the variety show “Warau Inu no Seikatsu – YARANEVA!! -” and quickly became a social phenomenon, achieving double-million sales.

The gals of the time surely resonated with its raw, authentic emotions.

FINAL DISTANCEUtada Hikaru31rank/position

Hikaru Utada – FINAL DISTANCE

This work boldly rearranges the title track of the album “Distance” into a majestic ballad centered on piano and strings.

Moved by a tragic incident that occurred in June 2001, Hikaru Utada recorded a new version as a prayer for repose, releasing it as a single in July 2001.

The lyrics, which depict a closeness that feels just out of reach and an unbreakable longing for someone dear, evoke a heart-wrenching sadness with every listen.

Its overwhelming expressive power has not faded, even more than twenty years after its release.

It is a gem that represents the Heisei era—one to be heard on a quiet night while thinking of someone precious who remains in your heart.

travelingUtada Hikaru32rank/position

Hikaru Utada – traveling

One of the iconic songs by Hikaru Utada, the charismatic artist who sparked a new whirlwind in the music world in the 2000s, is “traveling.” Released in 2001, it became a massive hit.

Used in a commercial and heard in living rooms across the country, the impact of this song is immeasurable.

lightUtada Hikaru33rank/position

Hikaru Utada – Hikari

It’s one of Hikaru Utada’s signature songs, with moving lyrics and a beautiful melody that resonate deeply.

The lyrics, which depict the joy of finding hope in darkness and encountering a new light, have captured the hearts of many listeners.

Released in June 2002, the track was used as the ending theme for the PlayStation 2 game Kingdom Hearts, bringing it to a wide audience.

Utada’s clear, transparent vocals and emotionally rich performance offer comfort, courage, and hope to listeners.

When you feel lost in life or want to take a new step forward, this song is sure to touch your heart.

Tomorrow, when spring comesMatsu Takako34rank/position

Tomorrow, when spring comes

A debut single by Takako Matsu that gently and poignantly captures the tenderness and wistfulness of spring.

Used as the theme song for NTT’s “Exciting New Life Campaign” commercial, this piece refreshingly sings of feelings for “you,” who is devoted to baseball.

Upon its release in March 1997, it reached No.

8 on the Oricon charts and was also performed at that year’s 48th NHK Kōhaku Uta Gassen.

With a clear, transparent voice and lyrical melody, it nestles close to the heart with the arrival of spring, gently encouraging those entering a season of new encounters and farewells.

Crime and PunishmentShiina Ringo35rank/position

Shiina Ringo – Crime and Punishment

It is one of the songs that symbolize the early 2000s music scene.

Showcasing Ringo Sheena’s distinctive worldview and masterful word choice, the piece drew major attention immediately upon release.

The background of its creation during a recuperation period from overwork also lends the song a profound depth of meaning.

Positioned as a 1970s-style rock ballad, its performance—sung with trills and a near-screaming, raspy voice—is overwhelming.

Released in January 2000, it peaked at No.

4 on the Oricon charts and became a major hit, selling over 540,000 copies in total.

While it seems to depict heartbreak and loneliness, it actually portrays a dialogue with oneself and inner conflict, making it a work of great depth.

It’s a highly recommended track for times when you’re struggling in life and want to face yourself.