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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)
foreignerKUBOTA Saki1rank/position
A debut single released in October 1979.
Beginning with an intro that exudes an exotic atmosphere, the song is distinguished by Saki Kubota’s clear, translucent vocals.
While it sings of the pain of heartbreak and the loneliness that follows, it also carries a hopeful message that time will heal the heart.
Inspired by the scenery of Kunitachi City, the track was also used in a Sanyo Electric commercial and gradually gained popularity.
In December 1979, it reached No.
1 on the Oricon charts, and record sales surpassed one million copies.
It has become an enduring classic, beloved across generations.
stationTakeuchi Mariya2rank/position
This song evokes a scene straight out of a film: unexpectedly running into an old lover at the station at twilight.
The protagonist notices him in the familiar raincoat, yet the bitter memories that resurface keep her from speaking.
Many listeners may feel their hearts tighten at the poignancy of fate, as two years have changed them both and sent them down diverging paths.
The song was self-covered on the acclaimed 1987 album “REQUEST,” and released as a single that November.
It also served as the theme for the Shochiku-distributed film “Goodbye Mama.” Another major appeal of this work lies in how its lyrics can be interpreted differently depending on the listener.
Put it on during a night when you want to reminisce about a past love and indulge in a touch of melancholy.
My RevolutionWatanabe Misato3rank/position
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?
Friday ChinatownYasuha4rank/position
This is an exotic, foreign-flavored song set in Chinatown.
Known as a classic from the Showa era, it’s now very popular on Instagram Reels.
The lyrics charmingly portray a lively midnight Chinatown, bursting neon signs, and brief, serendipitous encounters with foreigners.
It was Yasuha’s debut work, released in September 1981.
Rediscovered amid the city pop revival, it also became available via digital distribution in May 2022.
The track is included on the album “TRANSIT,” and a reissued analog record was released in June of the same year.
It’s a perfect pick when you want to feel a touch of the exotic or enjoy the Showa vibe.
It’s also highly popular on Instagram Reels.
Cheer up!Takeuchi Mariya5rank/position
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.
Equator Girl: Dokki!Yamashita Kumiko6rank/position
This is the sixth single by Kumiko Yamashita, released in 1982.
It became a major hit as the summer campaign image song for Kanebo Cosmetics.
With lyrics by Takashi Matsumoto and music by Haruomi Hosono, the song features evocative lyrics that conjure images of blazing sun and tropical romance.
Paired with a buoyant techno-pop rhythm, it captures both the heat of summer and the precarious intensity of love.
Yamashita’s captivating vocals vividly portray a passionate love affair in a southern paradise.
It’s the perfect track for outdoor fun like summer drives or seaside BBQs.
Don’t give up on your dreamsOkamura Takako7rank/position
Known for its heartwarming lyrics and melody, Takako Okamura’s signature song gives a gentle push to those embarking on a new chapter, such as entering school.
Though originally written as a breakup song, its universal message resonates in many situations.
Released in 1987, the track was used as the ending theme for Fuji TV’s information program “Time 3” and as a commercial song for Musashi Prep School, earning broad support across generations.
Singing of passion for dreams and the courage to overcome hardships, this piece is perfect for anyone starting a new life.
As you step onto a new stage in life, why not listen to this song and draw strength from it?