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)
If it’s the rain in JulyNishiwaki Yui57rank/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 Iwao58rank/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 FriendBrandy59rank/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.
I Wanna Be DownBrandy60rank/position
In 1995, Brandy made her debut at the astonishing age of 15 with the release of “I Wanna Be Down.” Alongside Aaliyah and Monica, she garnered attention as a teenage singer with exceptional vocal ability.
Her collaboration with Monica, “The Boy Is Mine,” released in 1998, became a global hit and also gained widespread recognition in Japan.
Top 90s Female Singer-Songwriters: Popular Songs Ranking [2026] (61–70)
HeavenChara61rank/position
Chara’s debut song, distinguished by an arrangement with the acid jazz vibe that was popular from the mid to late ’80s.
Her signature melodic sensibility and phrasing were already evident at this early stage, confirming that the core of her artistry was firmly in place.
tomorrowaiko62rank/position
Because of the serious mood of the song, you can hardly tell it’s aiko in the A-melody, yet it’s clear her individuality has stood out since her debut.
However, here “debut” refers to her major-label debut; long-time fans may consider even earlier songs to be her true debut.
Feelings for youtsuji ayano63rank/position
This is the title track of Ayano Tsuji’s major-label debut mini-album, known for its light ukulele tones and her charming, faintly nostalgic singing voice.
When this work was released in September 1999, she was still a university student.
Wanting to tell someone you care about them, yet not quite finding the right words—the sweet, bittersweet feelings are sung over a simple, unadorned melody.
The story that she chose the ukulele over the guitar because her hands are small hints at the roots of her musical style.
From this classic release, Feelings for You, came songs featured in a Morinaga Milk Industry commercial and as a TV drama ending theme.
This album gently accompanies the pure heart that thinks of someone dear.
It’s perfect for moments when you want to feel calm and at ease.