1970s Female Singer-Songwriters: Popular Songs Ranking [2026]

If I’m wrapped in kindnessMatsutoya Yumi57rank/position

Embraced In Softness / Yasashisa Ni Tsutsumareta Nara

It’s a song many people know as the ending theme of Studio Ghibli’s film Kiki’s Delivery Service.

Released in April 1974 as the third single by Yumi Matsutoya, who was still using the name Yumi Arai at the time.

Its universal theme—that if we don’t forget the pure feelings we had as children, everything we see turns into a precious message—gently warms the hearts of listeners.

The version included on the album MISSLIM features a country-style arrangement, and its friendly, catchy melody is especially appealing.

If you pair it with gentle reels or stories—like posts that capture everyday scenes or memories with someone special—I think it will make the visuals even more moving.

Across this wide fieldMoriyama Ryoko58rank/position

This Wide, Open Field – Ryoko Moriyama

Ryoko Moriyama, a godlike figure in the world of folk music.

With a guitar in hand, she still sings so coolly—it’s truly wonderful to see.

This song is even included in music textbooks, so I’m sure some younger people know it as well.

I never realized she was someone who could write songs that incredible.

Sugarcane fieldMoriyama Ryoko59rank/position

Ryoko Moriyama “Sugarcane Field” (from ‘Concert Tour 2007–2008’)

Known as a classic that colors the Showa-era pop scene, this piece carries lyrics that weave sorrow over war and a wish for peace, resonating with many hearts.

The melody, sung over the gentle tones of an acoustic guitar, evokes deep emotion.

First recorded in 1969 on the album “Ryoko Moriyama College Folk Album No.

2,” it has been cherished ever since.

Performed as a solo with guitar, it would surely become a song that deeply touches listeners.

My RevolutionWatanabe Misato60rank/position

Misato Watanabe “My Revolution” (taken from ‘Live EPIC 25 -20th Anniversary Edition-’)

This song, imbued with a powerful, forward-looking message, sings of reevaluating oneself and sparking an inner revolution.

It portrays the feelings of a protagonist who, along with a sense of loneliness, discovers a strength that is uniquely their own, appealing to the importance of the strength to chase dreams and to find a way of life that is true to oneself.

Released in January 1986 and reaching No.

1 on the Oricon charts, it is also known as the theme song for the TBS drama “Sailor-fuku Dori.” When you need courage to dive into a new environment, this is a track that will give you a push.

With Misato Watanabe’s powerful vocals, why not take the first step into a new chapter of your life?

When the cherry blossoms bloomWatanabe Misato61rank/position

Misato Watanabe — When the Cherry Blossoms Bloom

Misato Watanabe’s “Sakura no Hana no Saku Koro ni” is a song that portrays a new beginning with the arrival of spring.

Since its release in 1988, its lyrics have never faded with time, evoking thoughts of the season of farewells.

Watanabe’s gentle yet powerful voice cheers on many listeners and guides them toward the refreshing feeling of a spring day.

Especially on a blustery spring day when your heart feels unsettled, give this song a listen.

SeptemberTakeuchi Mariya62rank/position

September

This song is etched deeply in many people’s hearts as a classic that colors the long nights of autumn.

Mariya Takeuchi’s clear, translucent voice delicately captures the shift from summer to fall.

Set in September—the month that symbolizes parting—the lyrics portray the end of a romance and the changes of the heart, resonating deeply with listeners.

Released in 1979, this track has long been cherished as one of Takeuchi’s signature works.

It appears on multiple releases, including the album “LOVE SONGS,” attesting to its enduring popularity.

It’s a perfect listen when you begin to feel autumn’s arrival and find yourself in a contemplative mood.

This is a song that will let you feel the autumn breeze in your heart.

Cheer up!Takeuchi Mariya63rank/position

Mariya Takeuchi – Cheer Up (Official Music Video)

Released in 1984.

It’s well-known as a song provided to Hiroko Yakushimaru, and Mariya Takeuchi’s own self-cover is also popular.

The overall melody is simple and centered in the mid-range, making it a relatively accessible key for most people to sing.

Since the song starts on the “na” sound, it can be hard to come in casually, so preparing your voice is very important! Hum along from the intro as if you’re already singing, and then, the moment the melody begins, project your voice with a quick burst of energy.

If the opening note comes out cleanly, you can keep singing with that momentum.

In general, singing with stronger accents might suit the mood of the song well.

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