Best/Loved Songs with Great Lyrics by Female Singer-Songwriters: Ranking [2026]

lightUtada Hikaru78rank/position

Hikaru Utada – Hikari

It’s a soul-stirring song woven from Hikaru Utada’s translucent vocals and profound emotional expression.

The lyrics beautifully portray the joy of finding light in darkness and the process of discovering new hope.

It also gained attention as the theme song for the video game “Kingdom Hearts.” Blending elements of electronica and dance-pop, this compelling track feels less like a love song and more like an anthem of resilience in the face of life’s trials.

When you’re feeling down or ready to take a new step forward, listening to it is sure to give you courage.

A midsummer passing showerUtada Hikaru79rank/position

Hikaru Utada – Midsummer Shower

A song that delicately weaves together the deep sorrow of losing someone precious and the love that still refuses to cease.

Like a gentle rain falling in the depths of the heart, it moves the listener—so quintessentially Hikaru Utada.

Included on the 2016 album Fantôme, this piece was released when Utada resumed musical activities after about eight years.

When you want something to quietly accompany the loneliness at summer’s end or those sudden pangs of wistfulness, this warm melody will envelop you.

On a night when you’re thinking of someone dear, why not listen closely?

The summer you gave meieiri reo80rank/position

Leo Ieiri – The Summer You Gave Me (Theme song for the Monday 9 p.m. drama “Koinaka”)

Some of you may have had the experience of a fleeting summer memory resurfacing so vividly it tightens your chest.

This work beautifully captures the memories of a bygone love, the accompanying heartache, and the complex feelings we hold as we grow into adulthood.

It’s a song by Leo Ieiri, a singer-songwriter from Fukuoka Prefecture, released in August 2015 as her 10th single.

It also drew attention as the theme song for the Fuji TV Monday 9 p.m.

drama Koinaka, starring Sota Fukushi and Tsubasa Honda.

On a night when you want to immerse yourself in sweet yet bittersweet memories, why not listen quietly on your own?

Baby youyuka81rank/position

Yuka “Baby you” Music Video

Singer-songwriter Yuka, who rose to prominence thanks to social media, has been turning heads.

Her major-label debut single, released in January 2023, won the Music category of the TikTok First Half Trend Awards 2023 and became a viral hit both in Japan and abroad.

Co-written with Takahito Uchisawa of androp, the track boasts an irresistibly catchy melody that sticks in your head after just one listen.

The lyrics straightforwardly convey an overflowing feeling of love, sure to make your heart flutter just by listening.

It’s no wonder it’s so popular in fan-edits and couple videos—the feel-good vibe is undeniable.

Also included on the album “messy bag,” this is an exceptionally cute pop song that’s perfect for moments when your affection for someone special is surging.

Give it a listen.

ButterflyKimura Kaera82rank/position

Kaela Kimura “Butterfly” [short ver.]

“Butterfly” is a song by Kaela Kimura that was released digitally in June 2009.

It drew attention after being featured in a commercial for the comprehensive wedding magazine Zexy in April of the same year.

Kimura is said to have written it for her close friend’s wedding, and it remains a popular staple at weddings today.

The lyrics, expressed in gentle language, evoke a sincere desire to celebrate the newlyweds.

Youthful RegretMatsutōya Yumi83rank/position

Yumi Matsutoya – Regret of Youth (Into the Dancing Sun)

“Don’t forget me.

You can hate me or resent me, but I want you to remember me.” This is something only Yuming could write.

By the way, “regret” carries meanings in Japanese such as disappointment, lament, frustration, and remorse.

rainMoritaka Chisato84rank/position

Chisato Moritaka 'Rain' [Self-Cover]

A signature song by Chisato Moritaka, distinguished by its tender, heart-touching melody and lyrics that are both poignant and powerful.

Through imagery of getting soaked in the rain, it skillfully expresses the pain and loneliness of heartbreak, as well as the strength to move forward.

Released in September 1990 and included on the album “Kokon Tozai,” the track captured the hearts of many listeners.

It has since been covered by a variety of artists both in Japan and abroad, proving its universal appeal.

It’s a recommended song not only for those carrying the pain of a broken heart, but also for anyone who wants to cherish the feeling of caring for someone.

Listen to it on a rainy day, and it will resonate with you even more.