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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80s Female Singer-Songwriters: Popular Song Rankings [2026] (41–50)
winter galaxyfuki no tō43rank/position
This is the 16th single, released in 1980.
It has a mood that seems to seep into the clear winter scenery.
It was reportedly rushed into being released as a single because it was sung so often at weddings and graduation ceremonies.
With its relaxed tempo, it conveys a sense of romance and ease that’s rare to find today.
The harmonies are pleasant and give you a warm feeling.
It’s also included on the self-cover album “ever last,” so be sure to give that a listen as well.
White Winterfuki no tō44rank/position
This is a lyrical piece that poignantly sings of the transition from autumn to winter.
Carried by the gentle tones of an acoustic guitar, it overlays the sorrow of a bygone love and shifting emotions onto the changing of the seasons.
The transparent harmonies of Fukinotou weave a delicate world that resonates deeply in the heart.
Released as a debut single in September 1974, the song gradually gained popularity after being featured on Takuro Yoshida’s All Night Nippon, eventually reaching No.
14 on the Oricon charts.
As the duo’s signature song, it has since been covered by numerous artists.
It is a track that gently accompanies the resolve to quietly accept the end of a romance—one to listen to when you wish to heal the wounds of heartbreak or to put your feelings in order.
FANTASYNakahara Meiko45rank/position
A song that portrays rebirth and new beginnings.
Released in 1982, it is included on the album “Cinderella Until 2 O’Clock – FRIDAY MAGIC.” Written and composed by Meiko Nakahara herself, the track was arranged by Hiroshi Shinkawa.
True to Nakahara’s reputation for musical versatility, it’s a pioneering piece that harnesses the accessibility of kayōkyoku while incorporating elements from various genres such as disco, Latin, and synth-pop.
This work is a song that helps you overcome heartbreak and gives you the courage to step into a new romance.
It’s a perfect track for those struggling with love or anyone ready to move forward.
Actress in the MirrorNakahara Meiko46rank/position
This is one of Meiko Nakahara’s signature works and is also well known as the opening theme for the anime Kimagure Orange Road.
Included on her album Actress in the Mirror, released in March 1988, the track is characterized by its glittering synth-pop sound.
It skillfully portrays a woman’s emotions swaying between the realities and ideals of love, resonating deeply with listeners.
Celebrated as a city pop classic, it continues to be beloved by many fans, making it highly recommended for anyone interested in ’80s music.
Its appeal shines even more when listened to in an urban atmosphere—like during a nighttime drive.
Lullaby of the Thistle MaidenNakajima Miyuki47rank/position
A gifted artist, Miyuki Nakajima has continued to pursue a one-and-only form of expression since the ’80s—and beyond—while achieving the kind of commercial success befitting a major star.
This video is a cover, but it still captures that distinctly her kind of melancholy atmosphere.
As if singing a Christmas songNakajima Miyuki48rank/position
This is a Christmas song by Miyuki Nakajima, included on the album “Utadokoro (Uta-goyomi)” released in 1987.
It portrays Christmas as a very special day, and many people may find it relatable.
As if singing a Christmas songNakajima Miyuki49rank/position
This is a hidden gem that overlays the glittering, festive day of Christmas with a delicate, fleeting longing for love.
It’s included on Miyuki Nakajima’s 1987 live album “Utakoyomi,” and portrays the desire to be loved just for today.
On Christmas, when the city is covered in snow and people act with kindness, she wishes to be cherished as someone special.
While accepting a one-night relationship that will revert to strangers when the calendar turns, she still longs to spend that moment as if they were true lovers—a feeling that resonates deeply.
The quiet arrangement centered on voice and acoustic guitar highlights the tremors of restrained emotion.
It’s a song I’d recommend to anyone greeting Christmas night while carrying complicated feelings for someone dear.