Minako Honda’s Popular Songs Ranking [2026]

Marilyn in 1986Honda Minako1rank/position

Minako Honda – Marilyn in 1986

Minako Honda was an idol singer who gained popularity from the late 1980s to the early 1990s thanks to her strong vocal ability and powerful singing style.

I believe she was especially popular among people in their 60s as a leading example of an idol with outstanding singing skills.

“Marilyn in 1986” is her biggest hit.

While the track is notable for its danceable synths, the vocal line leans strongly toward kayōkyoku (traditional Japanese pop), and the range—mid1F to hiF—is not particularly wide, giving it a light, effortless feel when sung.

It’s easy to sing yet still delivers plenty of excitement, so consider adding it to your repertoire.

expand_lessRaise the rankingexpand_morelower

Ryo

Report a problem

Nadja!!Honda Minako2rank/position

Tomorrow’s Nadja OP [Nadja!!] by Minako Honda – 4K High-Quality, Full AAC-LC 320 kbps

This number evokes nostalgia for anime fans of the 2000s.

Sung by Minako Honda, it was released in 2003 as her 25th single.

It’s the opening theme of the anime Ashita no Nadja.

With a bright and powerful tone, the lyrics are filled with dreams, hope, and an uplifting message.

As you listen, you can feel the protagonist Nadja’s adventurous spirit and cheerful personality.

Although time has passed since its release, it remains a timelessly appealing classic among anime songs.

Oneway GenerationHonda Minako3rank/position

Oneway Generation

Minako Honda, who made a dazzling transformation from idol singer to musical theater star.

Since her debut in 1985, she shone on the idol scene while also taking on classical music and musicals, showcasing activities that transcended genres.

She successfully held her first concert at the Nippon Budokan and, in 1988, formed the female rock band MINAKO with WILD CATS.

In her debut year, she won the Japan Record Awards’ Best New Artist, earning high acclaim for her talent.

Chosen from 12,000 candidates to play Kim in the musical Miss Saigon, she captivated audiences with her outstanding vocal ability and expressive power.

As a songstress who combines a powerful voice with graceful poise, she is highly recommended for those seeking music of the highest quality.

Vacation of Murderous IntentHonda Minako4rank/position

Murderous Intent Vacation

Imbued with the shimmer of summer and the thrill of budding romance, this song stands out with lyrics that felt unusually mature for an idol at the time, passionately depicting a love swaying in summer scenes.

Kyōhei Tsutsumi’s composition blends catchy hooks with a streak of poignancy.

Released in April 1985 as Minako Honda’s debut, it reached No.

21 on the Oricon charts and was also featured in a radio commercial for Toshiba’s juicer-mixer.

You can hear it on live releases like The Virgin Concert as well.

It’s perfect not only for those nostalgic for summers in the ’80s, but also for younger listeners who want to experience the roots of Minako Honda.

An ideal backdrop for a slightly grown-up summer.

Amazing GraceHonda Minako5rank/position

Amazing Grace / Minako Honda

This is “Amazing Grace,” the final masterpiece by Minako Honda, who rose to fame as a top idol in the 1980s and flourished as a musical actress before tragically passing away from leukemia in 2005.

Her singing voice surely continues to bloom beautifully in our hearts.

TemptationHonda Minako6rank/position

Temptation

This is a single released by Minako Honda in 1985, which was used as the TV commercial song for Toshiba’s fan heaters and hot carpets.

With this song, she won newcomer awards at the 27th Japan Record Awards in 1985, the 16th Japan Song Awards, the 14th FNS Music Festival, among others, making it one of her signature tracks.

SosotteHonda Minako7rank/position

Minako Honda Sosotte

Speaking of Minako Honda, “Marilyn in 1986” is considered her most famous and representative work, but the song that drew the most attention for its costume was “Sosotte.” Nowadays, showing the midriff like that might seem unremarkable, but at the time it was impactful enough to be banned on NHK’s music programs.