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] (1–10)
My Room, My Dress Shirt, and MeHiramatsu Eri8rank/position
This work is known as one of Eri Hiramatsu’s signature songs.
Released as a single from the album “MY DEAR” in March 1992, it became a major hit.
It portrays the joy and anxieties felt in living together with a loved one, capturing the delicate emotions of a woman.
The lyrics about a woman’s sharp intuition convey deep affection for a lover or husband.
There’s also humor woven in, including a darkly playful line like, “If you ever cheat on me, let’s go together with a bowl of poisoned soup.” It’s a recommended track for moments when you want to reaffirm the love in everyday life or feel the bond with someone special.
Each listen will paint a beautiful scene in your heart.
threadNakajima Miyuki9rank/position
This is one of Miyuki Nakajima’s signature ballads, likening life’s mysterious encounters to a woven fabric and singing of how those bonds might someday warm someone’s heart.
Originally included on her October 1992 album “EAST ASIA,” it was released as a single in 1998 as the theme song for the TBS drama “Seija no Kōshin,” capturing the hearts of many.
It has since been covered by numerous artists, including Bank Band, and even inspired a film released in 2020, carrying the song across generations.
It’s a perfect listen for graduation season, when farewells and new meetings intersect, and for moments when you want to reflect on the bonds with those you cherish.
With its gentle yet powerful message, this timeless classic gives you the courage to take a new step forward.
AutomaticUtada Hikaru10rank/position
Hikaru Utada’s debut single, released in December 1998, brought a genuine R&B breeze into the world of J-pop.
Depicting feelings so strong that your body moves unconsciously when a call comes from a lover, the song blends a mature groove with the purity of teenage years to perfection.
Remarkably, this debut achieved double million sales.
Those who experienced that impact in real time likely remember it vividly.
Even now, its stylish sound hasn’t faded at all—an enduring classic that’s perfect for moments when you want to bask in memories.
1990s Female Singer-Songwriters: Popular Songs Ranking [2026] (11–20)
TOMORROWMayo Okamoto11rank/position
When it comes to the definitive cheer song that has encouraged people all across Japan, it has to be this one.
Singer-songwriter Mayo Okamoto released it as her debut single in May 1995, and it was chosen as the theme song for the drama “Second Chance,” becoming a massive hit with sales of about 1.77 million copies.
Its uplifting lyrics, which speak of growing stronger beyond tears, and its bouncy piano melody are unforgettable.
It’s also well known that during production, the tempo was sped up at the request of the drama’s team.
While it wasn’t originally a graduation song, this track gently gives you courage in the springtime, when anxiety and hope mingle.
Why not listen to it while putting your arm around a friend setting off into a new world—or to spur yourself on? It’s a timeless classic that never loses its shine.
Come, spring.Matsutōya Yumi12rank/position
Released as Yumi Matsutoya’s 26th single, “Haru yo, Koi” is surely one of Japan’s quintessential spring songs.
It topped the Oricon charts and has sold a total of 1.164 million copies.
The song was used as the theme for an NHK morning drama series and featured in numerous commercials.
It now appears in music and language arts textbooks and is also popular as a graduation song in elementary and junior high schools.
With lyrics and a melody that evoke Japan’s beautiful spring scenery, it’s a timeless classic that resonates across generations.
Watarase BridgeMoritaka Chisato13rank/position
Chisato Moritaka’s lyrics often feature real place names and scenery.
The song “Watarase Bridge” is also named after an actual bridge in Ashikaga City, Tochigi Prefecture, and it’s said to be a sacred spot among Moritaka fans.
Lines like “The Watarase Bridge I used to cross so often, this town I thought I wanted to live in forever, but you’re no longer here…” feel very realistic, and make me think they might be drawn from Moritaka’s own experiences.
It’s one of those staple ballads you want to listen to as winter approaches.
Along with this song, “Ame” is another highly regarded Moritaka ballad—why not take this opportunity to give them both another listen?
The strong and fleeting onesCocco14rank/position
A lyrical melody that portrays the feelings of a traveler setting out to protect a loved one resonates deeply.
It explores the reality faced in a haven of peace and the conflict over what is lost in the pursuit of ideals.
Cocco’s delicate depiction of human strength and fragility shakes the listener’s heart.
Released in November 1997 as her second single, the song was also included on the album “Kumuiuta” and chosen as the CM song for JAL’s Hawaii campaign.
Its delicate yet powerful vocals and poetic expression struck a chord with many, earning it Gold Disc certification.
It’s a song you’ll want to listen to when thinking of someone dear or standing at a crossroads in life.
A youth anthem that particularly resonates with those who grew up in the ’90s.