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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Female Singer-Songwriters of the ’90s: Popular Songs Ranking [2026] (51–60)
cherry blossomKawamoto Makoto51rank/position
Makoto Kawamoto is a singer-songwriter.
The piece she created with graduation as its theme is Sakura.
Its lyrics depict students gazing at cherry blossoms as they look back on their memories and pledge unchanging friendship.
The content resonates with a wide range of generations, making it perfect to listen to with friends or as a parent and child.
The melody is piano-centered, giving it a delicate yet beautiful atmosphere.
Wouldn’t it be perfect to perform at graduation ceremonies or farewell parties?
The Last LieMatsutōya Yumi52rank/position
Singer-songwriter Yumi Matsutoya, whose distinctive voice has remained unchanged since her debut, continues to be loved across generations.
Her 29th single, “Saigo no Uso” (“The Last Lie”), was used as the theme song for the TV drama Hitorigurashi (Living Alone).
Its aching lyrics, which connect to the promotional tagline “You always have five secrets,” seem to tighten around the heart more and more with each listen.
It’s an emotional ballad whose intro—featuring resonant strings and piano with real depth—lingers in the ears.
They are lovers.Moritaka Chisato53rank/position
Chisato Moritaka’s 24th single.
It was released as an advance single from a best-of album, and because the mix differs from the version on the album, the single version’s audio isn’t available on other albums, making it a difficult track to listen to.
It was also used as the theme song for the drama “Koi mo Nidome Nara.”
Love in AugustMoritaka Chisato54rank/position
The 13th single by Chisato Moritaka, a singer-songwriter who deftly plays multiple instruments and continues to be active across diverse fields, with a focus on live performances.
The song was used as the ending theme for the variety show “Video: You’re the Star,” and the contrast between her cute vocals and the bittersweet melody evokes a summer romance.
The lyrics, which hint at parting, and the somewhat nostalgic tone of the music convey the melancholy of summer drawing to a close.
It’s a wistful number that captures a side of the season that’s not just about excitement.
I want to see your smileHamada Rie55rank/position
Marmalade Boy, a shoujo manga serialized in Ribon, was a huge hit in the 1990s.
It remains a beloved work, even getting a live-action film adaptation in 2018.
For the 1994 anime adaptation, the theme song chosen was Rie Hamada’s “Egao ni Aitai.” In fact, beyond anime, she has written and composed numerous songs for children’s programs on NHK Educational TV (E-Tele).
PIECE MY WISHImai Miki56rank/position
Many of you were likely captivated by Miki Imai’s singing voice.
Known for her warm vocals and profound songs, one of her signature works is this track, which was chosen as the theme song for the drama “Ashita ga Aru Kara.” Released in November 1993, it reached No.
1 on the Oricon charts, became her first million-selling single, and marked an important milestone in her musical career.
The lyrics, which express the importance of moving forward without giving up when faced with difficulties and the inner strength people possess, have continued to resonate with many.
It’s a heartwarming song that serves as a cheer for those striving to overcome adversity.
Summer has come!Watanabe Misato57rank/position
This is the 20th single by Misato Watanabe, who has continued her energetic activities since becoming a popular singer with the big hit of “My Revolution,” released in 1986.
The crystalline synth sound and passionate guitar riffs evoke a summery vibe.
The powerful vocals and thrilling arrangement with key changes feel like they capture the very energy of the season.
It’s a timeless summer song—from the 1990s to today—that deserves a spot on your playlist for summer drives.
If it’s the rain in JulyNishiwaki Yui58rank/position
Although she had released songs such as film theme tracks before this, this song is effectively her debut single.
The lyrics—set in the rain and foreseeing the end of a romance—leave a strong impression, yet at the same time they also convey a powerful determination to move forward.
Freeze my heartTakayama Iwao59rank/position
“Freeze My Heart” is the 13th single by Tsuyoshi Takayama, released in 1992.
It won the Japan Record Award for Lyrics, the Japan Cable Radio Award, and the All Japan Cable Broadcasting Award Grand Prix.
Used as the theme song for the Nippon TV drama series “Shugyoku no Onna,” it became a major hit.
Best FriendBrandy60rank/position
It’s a track with a stylish, sophisticated vibe.
If it were playing at a chic bar you dropped by, it would sound really cool.
The lyrics of this piece are actually very short, and they give the impression of vividly expressing a range of emotions surrounding a friend.