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

We present a ranking-style list packed with popular tracks, drawing from hit songs and hidden gems by female singer-songwriters of the 2000s.

Many massively popular songs that still frequently appear on TV music programs are ranked as well.

Find your new favorite track!

Female Singer-Songwriters of the 2000s: Popular Songs Ranking [2026] (31–40)

A Long, Short FestivalShiina Ringo36rank/position

Ringo Sheena – Long and Short Festival
A Long, Short FestivalShiina Ringo

It’s a cool dance tune suffused with the sultry heat of a summer night and a fleeting, ephemeral vibe.

The track is a duet featuring Ukigumo, the guitarist from the band Tokyo Jihen, on vocals.

The rhythm incorporates elements of Brazilian music, and the interplay of the two Auto-Tuned voices is irresistibly captivating.

The lyrics portray a man and woman’s cat-and-mouse game set during a festival night, along with a sense of urgency toward a season that slips away in an instant—evoking Shiina Ringo’s distinctly mature worldview to the fullest.

Released in August 2015 as part of a double A-side single, it was used in Coca-Cola’s summer campaign commercial, making it a familiar tune in many households.

It’s a number you’ll want to listen to on a slightly muggy summer night, soaking in a sentimental mood.

MHamasaki Ayumi37rank/position

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.

User ManualNishino Kana38rank/position

Kana Nishino “Torisetsu” MV Full
User ManualNishino Kana

Kana Nishino’s 27th single, used as the theme song for the film “No Longer Heroine,” released in September 2015.

Its unique lyrics, which liken a woman’s delicate emotions to an instruction manual, became a hot topic and won the Grand Prize at the 57th Japan Record Awards.

The lyrics, where she introduces herself through the metaphor of a user manual, are both chuckle-worthy and heart-fluttering just by listening.

The song is included on her 6th album, “Just LOVE,” and has become a wedding staple.

It’s a perfect love song not only for those with a crush or in a relationship, but also for when you want to convey your feelings to your partner.

I miss you so much and want to see you.Nishino Kana39rank/position

Kana Nishino “Best Friend” & “I Want to See You, I Miss You” Live Performance
I miss you so much and want to see you.Nishino Kana

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.

dizzinessOnitsuka Chihiro40rank/position

It is one of Chihiro Onitsuka’s signature songs, notable for a lyrical narrative that conveys a grand sense of love, woven with an emotional singing voice.

Released in March 2001, the track is also known for being featured in a commercial for the aesthetic salon La Parler.

Beginning with a striking piano intro, this delicate number has a captivating charm that draws you in.

The lyrics, which depict inner conflict and a longing for love, are sure to resonate deeply with listeners.

When you’re feeling tired or stressed, listening to this song may bring healing to your heart.

Top Female Singer-Songwriters of the 2000s: Popular Songs Ranking [2026] (41–50)

Goodbye to you…Tiara41rank/position

Tiara 'Goodbye to You… feat. Spontania' MUSIC VIDEO
Goodbye to you...Tiara

Before her debut, Tiara, a female singer-songwriter who honed her vocals by taking part in numerous tracks as a chorus singer and featured artist, released this as her first single.

The song features Spontania, a music duo she looks up to like big brothers, and the lyrics—said to be a direct reflection of a heartbreak she experienced at the time—are heartrending.

The feeling of being unable to share your true feelings with each other and being unable to move forward is something many who can’t forget an ex will relate to.

With its seamless fusion of handsome rap and emotional vocals, this track became a long-running hit, especially among younger listeners.

KissHugaiko42rank/position

aiko- 『KissHug』music video
KissHugaiko

This is a hidden gem by aiko, who has created countless masterpieces.

Many of aiko’s songs are easy to sing, and this one is of course no exception.

The lyrics clearly depict the feelings of a girl who has had a long-standing crush on one person, and they make my heart ache with nostalgia for my own youth.