1990s Male Singer-Songwriters: Popular Song Rankings [2026]
Isn’t it in the 1990s that singer-songwriters began covering a wider range of musical genres and self-composed songs seemed to become the mainstream?
From among the many timeless masterpieces born in the ’90s, we’re highlighting popular tracks—focusing especially on those by male singer-songwriters—and presenting them in a ranking.
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- Ranking of Popular Songs by Female Singer-Songwriters of the 1990s [2026]
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- A roundup of hit love songs from the ’90s
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Male Singer-Songwriters of the 90s: Popular Songs Ranking [2026] (71–80)
I can’t just leave you alone.Kusunose Seishiro78rank/position
A heartrending love song that presses straight on the heart.
Released in October 1991, it was used as the theme song for the TBS drama “AD Boogie.” Characterized by Seishiro Kusunose’s gentle vocals and delicate arrangement, it has been embraced by a wide range of listeners since its release.
Positioned as one of a “love trilogy,” it conveys a fervent wish to hold a loved one tightly, even while hiding unreturned feelings and the pain in one’s heart.
It’s said there was once an idea for Masatoshi Hamada of Downtown to sing it, and the relatively high key of the song is a remnant of that plan.
This work portrays the strength, fragility, and beauty of humanity through love.
It is sure to resonate with those who have experienced a painful breakup or who keep deep feelings for someone dear close to their heart.
SPYMakihara Noriyuki79rank/position
Noriyuki Makihara is a genius singer-songwriter who dominated commercial sales in the 1990s and, after many twists and turns, continues to thrive even now in the 2020s.
While his early work often evokes love songs and anthems that skillfully depict the everyday, his track “SPY” stands out for its striking phrases that hint at Chinese musical influences, and lyrics that brilliantly tie back to the title—an undeniable masterpiece that’s sure to impress.
It’s bittersweet that the lyrics are actually based on Makihara’s own experiences, and the song became a massive hit, reaching No.
1 on the Oricon charts.
North Wind ~May It Reach You~Makihara Noriyuki80rank/position
The winter song released by Noriyuki Makihara in October 1992 is a heartwarming ballad that tries to carry a bittersweet love on the north wind.
Using the snowfall blanketing a winter city as its motif, it delicately portrays the ache of being unable to express feelings to someone you love and the sense of loneliness felt even amid a crowd.
Makihara’s gentle vocals and deeply resonant lyrics are a perfect match; shortly after its release, the song reached No.
6 on the Oricon charts.
Despite having no tie-ins with commercials or TV dramas, it became a major hit, selling over 620,000 copies in total.
It’s the perfect track to listen to on a winter night while spending time alone, thinking of someone special.
1990s Male Singer-Songwriters: Popular Songs Ranking [2026] (81–90)
her boyfriendMakihara Noriyuki81rank/position
The appeal of Noriyuki Makihara as a singer-songwriter lies in his catchy melodies that stick with you after just one listen, and his unique lyrics.
Within them are stories worthy of a TV drama.
“Her Boyfriend” is one such song.
honest / frank / straightforwardMakihara Noriyuki82rank/position
A piano tone that gently cradles delicate emotions, staying close to the heart.
This exquisite ballad, woven by Noriyuki Makihara’s voice, portrays both the difficulty and importance of expressing honest feelings.
Released in 2000, the song also drew attention as his first single after moving to Sony.
With the new challenge of a solo piano-and-vocal performance, Makihara’s charm is showcased to the fullest.
It’s a perfect track for those struggling with their relationships or unable to openly convey their feelings to someone important.
Each listen offers a warm prompt to face your own emotions and connect with them more sincerely.
KISS MEHimuro Kyosuke83rank/position
It was released in 1992 as Kyosuke Himuro’s ninth single.
The song was used in a commercial for Boutique JOY and is Himuro’s biggest hit.
The chorus section uses a chord progression very similar to that of “MARIONETTE,” a song by BOØWY, the band he previously belonged to.
SQUALLHimuro Kyosuke84rank/position
This is a solo single by Kyosuke Himuro, the vocalist of BOOWY.
While retaining the vibe of the BOOWY era, it showcases different facets through arrangements that couldn’t be fully expressed by the band.
Its danceable, upbeat sound is sure to get you pumped.