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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Top Female Singer-Songwriters of the 1990s: Popular Songs Ranking [2026] (21–30)
Jin jin jingle bellMoritaka Chisato22rank/position
A perfect song for the exciting Christmas season was released in December 1995 and quickly captured the hearts of many.
Written and composed by Chisato Moritaka herself, the track enjoyed great popularity, reaching No.
2 on the Oricon charts and No.
1 on CDTV.
It was also used in a commercial for Suntory Ice Gin, making it beloved across generations.
With a melody that epitomizes winter, it’s ideal for decorating for Christmas or adding sparkle to a special day with someone dear.
The clear vocals and lively tune are sure to warm your heart even in the cold season.
Every time you play it, it will make you look forward to the night of the 24th.
Even when I become an old ladyMoritaka Chisato23rank/position
Chisato Moritaka, who released numerous hit songs in partnership with composer Hideo Saito, is best known for one representative track: “Even If I Become an Old Lady.” It’s a song that even those who aren’t die-hard Moritaka fans can hum along to, with the distinctive accessibility of the ’80s and ’90s.
Covered by artists like misono and Nozomi Tsuji, it truly is a timeless classic passed down through the eras.
With this song, dads can have a blast singing karaoke together with their kids.
Also pay attention to the buoyant digital sound that was once dubbed Japanese Eurobeat!
Tonight is a Hearty PartyTakeuchi Mariya24rank/position
A classic yet fresh masterpiece by singer-songwriter Mariya Takeuchi, this smash-hit number truly lives up to its name as a party song.
Released in November 1995 as her 25th single, it’s packed with irresistible charm: its brisk rhythm and catchy pop melody are guaranteed to put listeners in a great mood.
It was also featured in Kentucky Fried Chicken’s Christmas campaign commercial, helping it become a beloved holiday staple.
The lyrics even include the phrase “Kimutaku,” and in a playful twist, Takuya Kimura himself performs the spoken line.
This track is perfect as background music for fun times with friends or for a Christmas party.
I can’t wait until ChristmasWatanabe Misato25rank/position
Misato Watanabe made her name known with the hit of her signature song, “My Revolution.” Known for her powerful vocal ability, she released “I Can’t Wait Until Christmas” in 1991.
Set at a winter ski resort, it tells the love story of two people.
The lyrics, filled with the desire to be happy with the one you love even before Christmas arrives, convey a sense of pure, innocent affection.
It’s a number that hints at the beginning of a passionate romance strong enough to blow away the winter chill.
The Boy Is MineBrandy&Monica26rank/position
A defining, searingly passionate R&B duet of the ’90s.
In this number, American singers Brandy and Monica spar over a single man, each declaring “He’s mine,” unleashing an energy that rivals the heat of summer.
Their vocal back-and-forth vividly captures the thrill of romantic gamesmanship and their unyielding emotions, pulling listeners straight into the heart of the drama.
Released in May 1998, the song appeared as a single from Brandy’s album “Never Say Never” and Monica’s album “The Boy Is Mine,” and it set a record by holding the No.
1 spot on the U.S.
charts for 13 consecutive weeks.
The music video also received high acclaim, winning at the Billboard Music Video Awards.
Perfect for amping up a summer drive or party, it’s a must for anyone craving dramatic R&B.
CountdownCocco27rank/position
This was Cocco’s striking major-label debut single, released in March 1997, and it’s also included on the album “Bougainvillea.” Twenty years after its release, in 2017, it became known for being performed on television for the first time on Music Station.
The lyrics depict the final moments of a man and woman whose love and hate have reached the extreme.
Set to a tense sound that feels like a countdown to ruin has begun, the protagonist’s raging emotions, as they force the other person to make an ultimate choice, are sure to shake listeners to their core.
On nights when you feel overwhelmed by inescapably complex emotions, it might be nice to immerse yourself in this one-of-a-kind world.
Movin’ on without youUtada Hikaru28rank/position
This is Hikaru Utada’s second single, released in February 1999 while the shock of her debut had yet to fade.
Set to an up-tempo dance sound, the mature lyrical worldview—unbelievable for a 15-year-old—once again left the public in awe.
The lyrics depict a firm resolve to end a relationship and set out alone.
The faint sorrow that seeps through beneath that bold attitude is the part that tightens your chest.
The song was a lead single from the classic album First Love and became her first Oricon No.
1 hit.
It was also well known as a Nissan commercial song.