Ranking of Popular Songs by Female Singer-Songwriters of the 1990s [2026]
This is a song list featuring hit and classic tracks by female singer-songwriters from the 1990s.
The 1990s were the era in Japan when music and CDs sold the most, with million-selling records coming one after another.
Alongside massive hits, many highly musical works were also produced that satisfied even dedicated music fans.
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1990s Female Singer-Songwriters: Popular Songs Ranking [2026] (91–100)
THE CHRISTMAS SONGTakeuchi Mariya92rank/position
An exquisite Christmas song by Mariya Takeuchi, who calls herself a “singer‑song full-time housewife.” The lyrics are entirely in English, making it a great choice for background music.
Its stylishness sets it apart from other Christmas songs, a unique atmosphere that only her voice can create.
It’s one of the tracks included on the single “Quiet Life,” released on cassette in 1992.
She has many Christmas songs and they often get buried among her other masterpieces, but this one is definitely a gem as well!
Wonderful HolidayTakeuchi Mariya93rank/position
Mariya Takeuchi is a singer-songwriter who represents Japan, who breezed through the music scenes of the ’90s, 2000s, and 2010s and still enjoys immense popularity in the 2020s.
Released in November 2001, this work is a heartwarming song themed around a cozy, family Christmas.
Created as a tie-in for Kentucky Fried Chicken Japan’s Christmas commercials, the track features rich orchestral arrangements.
It opens with imagery that evokes the arrival of winter, and its lyrics, expressing the joy of Christmas and the bonds of family, are sure to resonate with many listeners.
It has become one of those songs you often hear around town during the holiday season.
Why not play it as background music for a homey Christmas party with family or a loved one?
Pure Love RhapsodyTakeuchi Mariya94rank/position
Since the late 2010s, Mariya Takeuchi has been rediscovered by overseas music fans in the context of city pop, and her outstanding talent as a singer-songwriter has become known to younger generations as well.
Many of the masterpieces she created in tandem with her husband, Tatsuro Yamashita, were big hits, but when it comes to Mariya in 1994, it has to be “Jun’ai Rhapsody.” It was the theme song for the drama “Deatta Koro no Kimi de Ite,” and although it’s a refined pop song, its theme actually follows the drama’s storyline: an affair.
It’s remarkable how it conveys none of the sordid undertones you might expect, and in fact, it stands as her biggest hit.
aloneShinohara Miyako95rank/position
An arrangement centered on a piano-and-vocal style can only work if it has an exceptional melody and singing.
Her hallmark is the high sense of style that allowed her to achieve this atmosphere right from her debut, and she has since produced numerous smash hits.
The Night We Go to Meet SantaTanimura Yumi96rank/position
Yumi Taniguchi, with her high-pitched voice, sweet singing, and cute looks.
This is a poignant Christmas ballad that makes the most of her vocals.
A stripped-down performance with her crystal-clear voice and piano.
Yumi gently speaks to a girl’s heart, an entertainer who delighted audiences with piano accompaniment and musical-style choreography.
A wonderful Christmas ballad in which the bittersweet feeling of waiting for Santa Claus melts together with her signature high notes.
PART OF LIFESuzuki Yume97rank/position
As expected, even from their debut they treated us to such a composed singing voice.
They weren’t really the kind of artist who scored mega-hits in terms of sales, but I heard their songs quite a bit through tie-ins and the like.
It seems they’re still active even now.
Full of dreamsSeki Yumiko98rank/position
It’s one of the most iconic anime songs of the 1990s.
Released in April 1990 as Yumiko Seki’s debut single, it was selected as the first opening theme for the anime Chibi Maruko-chan, which began airing the same year.
With its lively melody and uplifting lyrics, the song portrays children’s innocence and the beauty of chasing dreams.
It’s a beloved track across generations—one that makes you want to listen while reminiscing about fond memories.