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

travelingUtada Hikaru29rank/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.

Teru’s SongTeshima Aoi30rank/position

Aoi Teshima “Teru’s Song (from 10th Anniversary Concert)”

A ballad with a quiet resonance that embodies the film’s world, its lyrics evoking loneliness and the will to live and reaching deep into the heart.

Known as an insert song for Studio Ghibli’s Tales from Earthsea, this debut single by Aoi Teshima was released in June 2006, with lyrics by Goro Miyazaki and music by Hiroko Taniyama.

It features few flashy developments or sudden leaps in pitch, and its nursery rhyme–like melody is distinctive, making it easy to follow calmly even for those concerned about vocal range.

In karaoke, the key is to cherish the lyrics and sing as if speaking to the listener.

Rather than forcing your voice, aim for a breathy, intimate delivery like Aoi Teshima’s to bring out the song’s atmosphere.

MHamasaki Ayumi31rank/position

Ayumi Hamasaki / M

One of the signature songs by Heisei-era songstress Ayumi Hamasaki, “M,” was released in 2000.

Dropping in December of that year and containing scenes that suggest winter’s approach, it has long been cherished as a winter ballad.

Those who have experienced a great love—whether in the past or right now—will likely feel something welling up inside.

This song even carries an almost divine aura.

The storyline that was later adapted into a drama and the lyrics that convey heartfelt emotion so vividly are thought-provoking, but above all, I believe the song’s true appeal lies in its universality: a ballad that gently stands by all who have been hurt.

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KEI

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I miss you so much and want to see you.Nishino Kana32rank/position

Kana Nishino “Best Friend” & “I Want to See You, I Miss You” Live Performance

This is the 10th single by singer Kana Nishino, who enjoyed popularity with lyrics that empathize with women’s feelings and catchy pop tunes, yet announced a hiatus in 2019.

Often praised as an example of “Kana Nishino’s lyrical trait of using familiar, accessible words,” this signature song drew attention for its impactful, standout keywords.

Its heartrending lyrics vividly evoke the inability to forget a former lover—something that may resonate not only with women but also with men who connect it to their own experiences.

With a melody that is both wistful and catchy, it’s a love song that resonates deeply and epitomizes a pop singer who defined the Heisei era.

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Hoshino Takashi

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Hello, helloSuperfly33rank/position

Superfly 'Hello, Hello' Music Video

The lyrics depicting the beginning of communication have a way of clearing anxious hearts.

Released in April 2007 as a debut work, it was used as an insert song for the drama “Edison no Haha.” Composed by Koichi Tabo when he was 18, the piece feels especially fresh and vibrant.

Anyone feels nervous when stepping into a new environment.

At such times, this work gives you courage.

Good-bye daysYUI for Amaoto Kaoru34rank/position

Good-bye days

Released under the name Kaoru Amane, the character played by YUI in the 2006 film “A Song to the Sun” (Taiyō no Uta), this song is a classic of youth that portrays a fleeting, heartrending farewell.

Through the love of a girl who cannot be exposed to sunlight, it gently sings of feelings exchanged within limited time and the resolve to face an inevitable parting.

The acoustic guitar and YUI’s clear, transparent vocals vividly revive unforgettable summer memories.

It reached No.

3 on the Oricon Weekly Chart and was later included on the album “CAN’T BUY MY LOVE.” It’s a song that offers comfort to anyone who has experienced parting with someone dear.

AutomaticUtada Hikaru35rank/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.