Top 1980s Female Singer-Songwriters: Popular Songs Ranking [2026]
We’ll introduce a ranking of popular songs by female singer-songwriters from the 1980s, including classic and hit tracks.
These songs were hits during Japan’s economic peak, the era known as the bubble.
Many are still frequently used as TV background music, so chances are you’ve heard most of them.
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Top 1980s Female Singer-Songwriters: Popular Songs Ranking [2026] (1–10)
My lover is Santa ClausMatsutōya Yumi8rank/position
How about a catchy winter song that heightens the festive Christmas spirit? It’s a track by the singer Yumi Matsutoya, known for numerous hits like “A Midsummer Night’s Dream” and “Spring, Come,” included on her 1980 album “SURF & SNOW.” The song was also featured in the film “Take Me Out to the Snow.” Just as the title suggests, the cute lyrics likening a lover to Santa will grab your heart.
If you’re spending this Christmas with someone special, be sure to listen to this song together.
Women Who Fall in Love in SummerOhnuki Taeko9rank/position
Taeko Onuki’s “Women in Love in Summer” evokes the feeling of a summer night in the city.
Released in 1983 as her 10th single, it was used as the theme song for the TBS drama of the same name.
It’s also a signature track from her acclaimed album SIGNIFIE.
Arranged by Ryuichi Sakamoto, the song features a romantic, synth-driven sound.
The lyrics, which conjure images of love between adult men and women living in the city, are also particularly striking.
I want to protect youMatsutōya Yumi10rank/position
A medium-tempo number by Yumi Matsutoya that somehow gives you a sense of reassurance the moment it starts playing.
It was released in 1981.
Every line of the lyrics feels so warm, doesn’t it? It overflows with a pure desire to become one in heart with the person you love, and the delicate yet gentle layering of Yuming’s voice is incredibly soothing.
There’s a generosity that wraps you in a sense of nostalgia, and it also gives the impression of revealing Yuming’s character.
It’s a heartwarming masterpiece that makes you want to cherish the person in front of you even more.
Top 1980s Female Singer-Songwriters: Popular Songs Ranking [2026] (11–20)
era; age; time; periodNakajima Miyuki11rank/position
Released in December 1975, this song—Miyuki Nakajima’s second single—garnered high acclaim from the very start of her career, including winning the Grand Prix at the Yamaha Popular Song Contest.
Its lyrics, themed around hope and courage in the face of sorrow and hardship, have resonated deeply with many listeners.
In 2007, it was selected for the “100 Best Japanese Songs,” and in 2010 it was used as the ending theme for Fuji TV’s 50th anniversary drama “Our Family’s History,” remaining a beloved piece across generations.
It’s a highly recommended song for anyone looking to overcome difficult times or seeking emotional support.
Time of the AngelsOkamura Takako12rank/position
This is Takako Okamoto’s 12th single, released in 1989.
She debuted with “Matsuwa” at Popcon as part of the duo Amin.
After Amin disbanded, she has been active as a singer-songwriter.
“Tenshi-tachi no Toki” is a Christmas song.
It’s an impressive love song with rhythmic, dramatic melodies and lyrics that express the desire to cherish the time spent with your smiling self.
The refrain is very effective, making it a highly polished track.
You can do it!Nakajima Miyuki13rank/position
This is a song you’ll want to listen to when taking that first step into a new chapter, like starting school.
The powerful message woven by Miyuki Nakajima gives you the courage to face adversity.
Featured on her 1983 album “Premonition,” the track was later used in a 1994 Sumitomo Life commercial.
More recently, it appeared in TV commercials for Calorie Mate, becoming a beloved anthem of encouragement across generations.
It’s especially recommended for those facing difficulties or feeling anxious about a new environment.
Miyuki Nakajima’s warm voice is sure to give you a gentle push forward.
A Lonely Christmas SongOzaki Ami14rank/position
When discussing Japanese Christmas songs, one cannot overlook “Hitoribocchi no Christmas Song,” released in 1983 and created by Ami Ozaki.
Handling the lyrics, composition, and arrangement herself, Ozaki crafted a piece whose deeply resonant melody and distinctive world-building captivated listeners and colored the Japanese music scene of the 1980s.
Her delicate expressiveness and moving melodies offer a comforting experience—whether you spend Christmas alone or with others—and will appeal to first-time listeners across generations.
