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]
- [J-Pop] Debut songs by male solo artists from the 1990s
- Top Male Singer-Songwriter Hits of the 1980s: Ranking [2026]
- Male Singer-Songwriters of the 2000s: Popular Song Ranking [2026]
- Iconic ballads of 90s J-pop: nostalgic mega-hits and fan favorites
- Classic and hit J-pop songs from the nostalgic ’90s
- Singer-Songwriter/Artist Rankings of the 1980s [2026]
- Classic and hit songs by nostalgic Japanese bands from the 1990s
- 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]
- A roundup of hit love songs from the ’90s
- Tear-jerking J-pop from the ’90s. Hit songs and real tearjerkers.
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.
To the new personKaientai85rank/position
Kaientai is a three-member folk group led by actor Tetsuya Takeda.
Known for hits like “Okuru Kotoba,” their song “Atarashii Hito e” is a hidden gem from the ’90s.
Its warm, folk-infused melody gently comforts the anxieties that come with graduation season.
Upbeat, hype-building anthems are great, but as a graduation song, I highly recommend a track like this—an encouraging tune that gradually fills you with courage as you listen.
