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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!

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

When cherry-blossom hues danceNakajima Mika50rank/position

Mika Nakashima 'Sakurairo Maukoro' Music Video
When cherry-blossom hues danceNakajima Mika

Through scenes of cherry blossoms dancing in the wind, this celebrated song by Mika Nakashima delicately portrays the bittersweet pain of love and the changing of the seasons.

Released in February 2005, it captured the hearts of many.

It was also featured in Suntory’s “Freixenet” commercial, earning affection across a wide audience.

The lyrics—evoking the fragility of love yet the strength to keep moving forward—gently encourage you as you take a new step with the arrival of spring.

Female Singer-Songwriters of the 2000s: Popular Song Ranking [2026] (51–60)

Prisoner Of LoveUtada Hikaru51rank/position

It’s the theme song of a popular drama.

It expresses the feelings of a protagonist with gender identity disorder, but its lyrics are appealing because anyone in love can relate to them.

It’s a song you’ll want to listen to in quiet moments—on a tired night, when you want to think about nothing and just listen.

ButterflyKimura Kaera52rank/position

Kaela Kimura “Butterfly” (Official Music Video)
ButterflyKimura Kaera

Released exclusively as a digital single in June 2009, this song was written as a wedding tune to celebrate a close friend’s marriage.

Its lyrics overflow with warm blessings for a beloved person setting off toward happiness.

Kaela Kimura’s cute vocals, paired with the pure tones of piano and harpsichord, make it perfect for weddings.

It was also featured in Recruit’s “Zexy” commercial, and continues to be cherished as a wedding classic.

It’s an ideal choice when you want to wholeheartedly celebrate a friend’s marriage or sing a heartwarming number at karaoke.

BLUE BIRDHamasaki Ayumi53rank/position

Ayumi Hamasaki, who established an unshakable position as a leading songstress of the Heisei era, released her 40th single in June 2006.

The track was also featured in a commercial for Zespri’s “Gold Kiwi.” With lyrics that depict gray clouds drifting away to reveal clear skies, the song inspires the courage to overcome hardship and take a new step forward.

Hamasaki’s gentle vocals, which sing about the bond between “you” and “me” and the love that connects people, seem to offer warm support when you’re feeling down or struggling with relationships.

Paired with a bright, catchy melody, it’s a song that gives you the strength to look ahead.

No way to sayHamasaki Ayumi54rank/position

Ayu Hamasaki’s 31st single, by an artist who epitomized the Heisei-era music scene and garnered immense support as a fashion icon.

Released in November 2003, the song was featured as the theme for the TBS variety show “Koisuru Hanikami!” and is also known for helping her achieve an unprecedented third consecutive win at the 45th Japan Record Awards.

The lyrics, which portray the frustration of being unable to honestly express your feelings to someone important, intertwine with the winter chill to evoke a heart-wrenching sense of poignancy.

This grand ballad, resounding with beautiful strings, is sure to bring back memories from that time.

glitterHamasaki Ayumi55rank/position

Ayumi Hamasaki / glitter (Short Ver.)
glitterHamasaki Ayumi

It’s one of Ayumi Hamasaki’s popular songs—a bit more up-tempo than her usual style.

Even though it’s upbeat, it’s not just bright; it’s the kind of song that makes you want to take light, playful steps.

It’s perfect for summer, so I’d love to listen to it at the beach.

Wonderful HolidayTakeuchi Mariya56rank/position

Lovely Holiday / Mariya Takeuchi [Cover]
Wonderful HolidayTakeuchi Mariya

It’s a warm song that makes you feel winter’s arrival! The lyrics, depicting the joy of Christmas and the bonds of family, gently embrace the listener’s heart.

The catchy chorus melody and Mariya Takeuchi’s clear, transparent vocals further enhance the song’s appeal.

Released in November 2001, it’s also included on the album “Bon Appetit!” and is known for its tie-in with KFC Japan’s Christmas commercials.

It’s a track you can enjoy in a variety of settings, from Christmas parties to winter drives.

Highly recommended for anyone who wants to spend a heartwarming moment, as if touched by winter’s magic.