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] (41–50)
EveOkui Masami50rank/position
It’s a song that, when you listen to it at summer’s end, evokes a bittersweet resonance deep in your chest.
Sung by Masami Okui, the track takes Adam and Eve as its theme, portraying loneliness and the weight of a love that’s anything but straightforward.
Included on the album “Do-can,” released in September 1998, this piece is written and composed by Okui herself.
It’s one I’d especially recommend for quiet summer nights when you want to get lost in thought or immerse yourself in the song’s profound lyrical world.
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).
Summer has come!Watanabe Misato56rank/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.