Female Singer-Songwriters of the ’60s: Popular Songs Ranking [2026]

I want to go back to that dayMatsutōya Yumi29rank/position

Yumi Matsutoya – I Want to Return to That Day (Yumi Arai The Concert with Old Friends)

This song is one of the signature pieces by Yumi Arai—better known as Yuming—who was a trailblazer among singer-songwriters.

When people think of Showa-era autumn songs, many may recall this very melody.

It portrays a woman’s heartrending longing as she cannot forget a bygone love and wishes to return to her youthful days.

The scenes of piecing together torn photographs and leaving a tear-blurred address tucked in the door convey emotions bordering on obsession.

Released in October 1975, the song was chosen as the theme for the TBS drama “Family Secrets” and reached No.

1 on the Oricon weekly chart.

It’s a number you’ll want to listen to quietly on a melancholic autumn evening, reminiscing about the past.

Surf Paradise, Ski ParadiseMatsutōya Yumi30rank/position

Surf Heaven Ski Heaven / Surf Tengoku, Ski Tengoku (2022 Ｍix)

Known by the nickname “Yuming,” singer-songwriter Yumi Matsutoya has released numerous hit songs, from her own original works to tracks she’s written for others.

Her song “Surf Tengoku, Ski Tengoku,” included on her 10th album SURF & SNOW, was used as the theme song for the film Take Me Out to the Snowland.

Its lyrics, which heighten the anticipation of winter’s snowy landscapes, set hearts dancing alongside an urban ensemble.

Despite never being released as a single, it has become a staple winter song and stands as a representative number of the 1980s.

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Hoshino Takashi

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My lover is Santa ClausMatsutōya Yumi31rank/position

My Baby Santa Claus / Koibito Ga Santa Claus

When it comes to Christmas songs, this is the one! Many people probably think of it first.

Included on Yumi Matsutoya’s 10th original album released in 1980, this track has now become a winter classic.

It has been passed down through performances by popular artists such as Seiko Matsuda and Hitomi Shimatani, and new covers have continued to be released even into the 2020s.

As Christmas approaches, you’re sure to hear Yumi Matsutoya’s voice all around town.

Even as various artists release new Christmas songs every year, its popularity never fades—truly a legendary piece.

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yuri

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Departing AutumnMatsutōya Yumi32rank/position

Departing Autumn

Above all, it’s astonishing to think this song was written when she was just around twenty.

It’s an early work by Yumi Matsutoya, back when she performed as Yumi Arai, and it’s included on the classic album “MISSLIM,” released in October 1974.

The scene of autumn slipping through the trees and disappearing into the night seems to delicately depict farewells to cherished people and places, as well as the start of a new chapter.

You can picture the protagonist setting off with quiet resolve, even while steeped in sentimentality.

Set against the sophisticated sound crafted by Caramel Mama and others, this hidden gem evokes a gentle, lingering emotion through Yuming’s poetic world and expressive power.

It’s a perfect song for an autumn night when you find yourself at a crossroads in life, lost in thought.

The last spring breakMatsutōya Yumi33rank/position

Saigo No Haruyasumi

This song, included on the 1979 album OLIVE, delicately portrays the bittersweet feelings of a girl on the verge of a season of farewells.

The sorrow of knowing that it will no longer be easy to meet after graduation unfolds at a gentle tempo, carried by Matsutoya’s characteristically tender melody.

A timeless spring classic from the Showa era, it resonates with listeners of every generation.

Why not listen to it slowly, drawing it close to your heart as you bask in the spring sunlight?

Message of RougeMatsutoya Yumi34rank/position

Rouge's Message – Yumi Arai (Yumi Matsutoya) (Full)

This is a song distinguished by its lively rhythm and refreshing melody.

The story of a woman who discovers her boyfriend’s infidelity, leaves a message written in lipstick on the bathroom mirror, and boards a train to visit his mother is bold and humorous, making it especially appealing.

While it carries a cautionary message about cheating, it also presents a positive, strong female figure—one of Yumi Matsutoya’s masterpieces.

Released in February 1975 and included on the album COBALT HOUR, the track features chorus contributions from Tatsuro Yamashita and others, resulting in a vibrant sound.

In 1989, it was chosen as the opening theme for the film Kiki’s Delivery Service, and it has continued to be loved across generations.

With its bright and cheerful tone expressing powerful feelings toward a lover, this song gently encourages women struggling with romance and is highly recommended to many listeners.

Across this wide fieldMoriyama Ryoko35rank/position

This Wide, Open Field – Ryoko Moriyama

This piece opens with a calm resonance that evokes the vastness of grasslands.

Ryoko Moriyama’s warm vocals gently accompany the listener’s heart.

Released in January 1967 as Moriyama’s debut single, it is also included on the folk album “Kono Hiroi Nohara Ippai / Ryoko Moriyama Folk Album No.

1.” The lyrics, filled with praise for nature and pure affection, are suffused with the gentle warmth of a picture book.

Broadcast on NHK’s “Minna no Uta” and included in elementary school music textbooks, the song has been loved across generations.

It’s recommended for times when your heart feels tired or when you want to dwell on thoughts of someone dear.