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.
- Ranking of Popular Songs by Japanese Male Singers from the 1990s [2026]
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- Ranking of Popular Songs by Female Singer-Songwriters of the 1990s [2026]
- Best Songs and Popular Tracks by Male Singer-Songwriters: 2026 Rankings
- Popular Nostalgic Songs: J-Pop Ranking [1990s Japanese Music Ranking]
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90s Male Singer-Songwriters: Popular Songs Ranking [2026] (91–100)
In the Rain of RemembranceFukuyama Masaharu92rank/position
While many people may primarily associate him with acting, Masaharu Fukuyama is also an energetic singer-songwriter who is highly active on the music scene, including with regular tours.
This was his debut single.
Due to vocal cord polyps at the time, his debut as a singer was postponed, so the single was released on March 21, 1990, following his earlier debut as an actor.
The driving rock sound paired with Fukuyama’s sexy, low-pitched voice makes for a cool ensemble.
It’s a striking number that marked the start of Masaharu Fukuyama’s career as a musician.
I can’t say “Merry Christmas.”Inagaki Junichi93rank/position
This song portrays the bittersweet hearts of lovers in winter.
Junichi Inagaki’s rich, velvety vocals gently enfold an eternal vow exchanged beneath a velvet-like sky.
Released in November 1990 as his 20th single and featured in a commercial for Mitsutaka’s “Boutique JOY,” the piece masterfully marries Yasushi Akimoto’s poetic lyrics with Toshiaki Matsumoto’s warm melody, vividly painting a Christmas night scene.
It’s a track for those who dream of a special night with their loved one or hold deep feelings for someone dear.
It also makes a perfect BGM choice for a Christmas party.
Summer HornsInagaki Junichi94rank/position
Released in 1983, this work brims with an urban, stylish allure.
The lyrics, which look back nostalgically on lost summer memories and the end of a romance, resonate deeply with listeners.
Junichi Inagaki’s rich vocals blend beautifully with the pop melody to create a superb track.
It was also used in a commercial for Fujifilm’s car-stereo-only audio cassette tape “GT-I,” making it popular across generations.
It’s said that the chorus was completed after more than 100 takes.
Give it a listen when you want to revisit bittersweet summer memories, as a companion on a drive, or when you’re trying to move past a farewell with someone precious.
No End SummerKadamatsu Toshiki95rank/position
No End Summer, sung by Toshiki Kadomatsu, is captivating with its chord progression that feels quintessentially Showa-era kayokyoku.
Compared to conventional kayokyoku, this track is arranged with a dance-music sensibility, elevating it to a more urban atmosphere.
In particular, after a major break in the C section, an aching melody with English lyrics comes in, instantly tugging at your heartstrings.
The use of brass instruments like the saxophone is also highly effective, resulting in a beautiful arrangement that would fit right into contemporary music.
Soap bubbleNagabuchi Tsuyoshi96rank/position
Boosted by the popularity of the tie-in TV drama of the same name, Tsuyoshi Nagabuchi’s 24th single became a million-seller.
Released in October 1991, it topped the Oricon weekly chart and sold over 1.1 million copies in total.
The lyrical guitar-riff intro and the folk-rock sound centered on acoustic guitar lend the entire track a wistful atmosphere.
Recorded in Los Angeles with top American session musicians, it achieves a grand, expansive sonic image.
The lyrics are emotional, portraying someone who, while confronting the injustices of society, keeps struggling to launch their dreams again and again.
It’s a track you’ll want to hear if you’ve faced setbacks but are trying to look ahead, or on nights when you want to savor life’s bitterness and hope at the same time.
dragonflyNagabuchi Tsuyoshi97rank/position
For those looking for songs with a mature or dandy vibe, I’d like to recommend Tsuyoshi Nagabuchi’s “Tonbo.” It’s a folk-rock number suited for solo acoustic performance.
The melody is a singable mid-tempo.
The lyrics depict setbacks in life, so try singing with a touch of strain and heartfelt emotion.
Also, when it comes to “Tonbo,” everyone looks forward to singing along to that intro and outro.
Be sure to have your friends and family join in.
sunflowerNagabuchi Tsuyoshi98rank/position
A song filled with warmth like sunlight, woven from a powerful singing voice and acoustic guitar.
With themes of hope and renewal, it superbly expresses human strength and kindness, showcasing Tsuyoshi Nagabuchi’s musical maturity.
Released on July 2, 1997, this work was used as the theme song for the TBS drama “Bodyguard” and became his 28th single.
Seamlessly blending folk rock and acoustic rock, the track embodies the essence of Nagabuchi’s musicality.
It is truly a sun-like song that stands beside those who are troubled at heart and those who are about to take a new step forward.