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

Departing AutumnMatsutōya Yumi57rank/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 Yumi58rank/position

The Last Spring Break / Saigo No Haru Yasumi (2022 Ｍix)

A beautiful ballad by Yumi Matsutoya that gently embraces the transience of the season when spring arrives and the milestone of graduation.

With tender emotion, it portrays the feelings of saying goodbye to student life while carrying a faint crush and lingering attachment, set against quiet scenes of the school.

Included on the album “OLIVE” and released in July 1979, this piece features Matsutoya’s delicate vocals and soft piano melody that resonate deeply.

It gently depicts moments that evoke nostalgic memories—such as classrooms bathed in spring sunlight and the sound of footsteps along long corridors—and is a song that, when listened to with older adults, can spark lively reminiscences of each person’s youthful days.

If I’m wrapped in kindnessMatsutoya Yumi59rank/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 Ryoko60rank/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 Ryoko61rank/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 Misato62rank/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 Misato63rank/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.