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

Stay just the way you are.Mayo Okamoto29rank/position

Mayu Okamoto “Stay Just the Way You Are” Music Video

When a new chapter of life begins and you’re feeling a bit tired from giving it your all every day, I recommend Mayo Okamoto’s “Sono Mama no Kimi de Ite” (“Stay Just as You Are”).

Its soothing lyrics help lift your spirits and support your heart as you face a fresh start.

The melody is poppy, and Mayo Okamoto’s vocals are comforting.

It’s a song you’ll find yourself playing on repeat.

cherry blossomKawamoto Makoto30rank/position

[MV] Makoto Kawamoto “Sakura”

Makoto Kawamoto gently sings this classic, whose tender spring light and calm melody seep into the heart.

At the life milestone of graduation, it delicately portrays a schoolgirl’s complex feelings as she faces parting with friends, along with her uncertainty and hope for the future.

Accompanied by a melodious piano, it beautifully captures the fresh emotions of youth.

Released in April 1998, the song reached No.

2 on the Oricon weekly chart and sold over 200,000 copies, despite having no tie-in at the time.

It’s a perfect track for a drive with the windows down in the soft spring sunshine.

Listen to it as you cruise through rows of cherry blossoms, and anyone will find it overlapping with their own memories.

the first strong spring windMayumura Chiaki31rank/position

[New Song] Chiaki Mayumura “Haru Ichiban” Music Video

It’s a beautiful song that heralds the arrival of spring.

Its delicate lyrics seep into the heart and make you feel the start of a new season.

Warm spring-like words—such as cream soda and letters—are sprinkled throughout, and every listen fills you with a gentle feeling.

The track is included on Chiaki Mayumura’s album “SAI,” released in May 2023, and it was reportedly created as part of a tie-in project with Ito En’s “Oi Ocha.” It’s the perfect song for those beginning a new chapter in spring or for anyone who has experienced a farewell with someone dear.

Wrapped in Chiaki Mayumura’s tender voice, you’re sure to find the courage to take a new step forward.

contrailArai Yumi32rank/position

Yumi Matsutoya – Vapor Trail (Yumi Arai The Concert with Old Friends)

The story of a boy drawn on a white slope reflects Yumi Arai’s inner landscape from her youth.

With a clear, crystalline voice and beautiful piano lines, she gently sings of a longing for the heavens and a parting from the earthly world.

Inspired by feelings for a classmate from her elementary school days, the piece takes flight on a fragile yet refreshing melody, brimming with the radiance of life and hope for liberation.

Released in November 1973 as the title track of the album “Hikōki Gumo,” it drew renewed attention in 2013 as the theme song for Studio Ghibli’s “The Wind Rises.” It is a gem of a song that tenderly supports those who have experienced the loss of someone dear, as well as young people standing at a crossroads in life.

moonlightOnitsuka Chihiro33rank/position

Chihiro Onitsuka – Gekkou (Moonlight)

A smash hit by Chihiro Onitsuka, an artist beloved by music fans for her breathtakingly distinctive vocals and delicate high tones.

The song expresses dissatisfaction with the world and is a recommended karaoke choice for women in their 20s who are struggling with worries.

aimlesslyAimer34rank/position

Aimer “Aimlessly” MUSIC VIDEO (Anime “Ranking of Kings: The Treasure Chest of Courage” Ending Theme)

It was released in May 2023 as the ending theme for the anime Ranking of Kings: The Treasure Chest of Courage.

It’s characterized by a warm vocal that gently accompanies the listener.

The lyrics weave in the importance of continuing to walk even when you’re tired and of accepting both yourself and others.

With themes of kindness, hope, and the pursuit of dreams, it offers a comforting sense of reassurance.

On nights when I’m too lonely to sleepAimer35rank/position

Aimer 'On Nights When I’m Too Lonely to Sleep'

A signature song by Aimer, an artist who has captured the hearts of the younger generation with a distinctive voice you can’t forget after hearing it once and overwhelming performances.

It’s a ballad that expresses a single-minded love so strong it keeps you up at night, and it’s a popular karaoke choice among women in their 20s who are in love.