Naoko Kawai’s Popular Songs Ranking [2026]

Half-Moon SerenadeKawai Naoko1rank/position

Naoko Kawai — Half Moon Serenade “月半小夜曲” (Half Moon Serenade)

A love ballad released in 1986.

It was also a turning point in her career, and Naoko Kawai herself composed the music.

It carries a somewhat fragile atmosphere, and combined with Kawai’s beautiful voice, it sounds all the more ethereal.

While it expresses the longing to be united with the one you love, as you listen you can also feel a vastness, or the emotional shifts that come with growing up.

I think it’s a love song that gently accompanies many different forms of romance.

In Hong Kong, since it was covered by male singer Hacken Lee, it has been cherished as a staple love song.

expand_lessRaise the rankingexpand_morelower

KEI

Report a problem

Stop fightingKawai Naoko2rank/position

Stop fighting

“Stop Fighting,” one of the signature songs by Naoko Kawai, a leading idol of the 1980s.

The song was written and composed by Mariya Takeuchi, who later released a self-cover.

It portrays a love triangle in which two men are in love with the same woman and end up fighting over her, while she urges them to stop.

Though it sounds like a ballad that captures the wavering heart of a woman, matching Naoko Kawai’s cute and innocent image, when you carefully read the lyrics as you listen, you can’t help but feel she’s actually quite a little temptress.

expand_lessRaise the rankingexpand_morelower

utatane

Report a problem

ControlKawai Naoko3rank/position

Control

This song, distinguished by its sparkling, pop-infused synthesizer sound, vividly portrays the shifting emotions of a woman in love.

Composed by Junko Yagami with lyrics by Masao Urino, it was released in June 1984 as Naoko Kawai’s 17th single and became a hit, reaching No.

7 on the Oricon charts.

Although it was released simultaneously with the album “Summer Delicacy,” it carries the unusual distinction of not being included on that album.

The lyrics, which express the complex feelings of a woman swayed by her partner’s actions, continue to resonate with listeners struggling with love, making it a beloved song to this day.

Summer HeroineKawai Naoko4rank/position

Naoko Kawai Summer Heroine

It’s a wonderfully refreshing tune that conjures up a seaside sparkling under the summer sun.

Naoko Kawai’s bright, soaring vocals carry the heroine’s summertime thrills and that slightly bittersweet urge to act a little more grown-up.

Released as a single in June 1982, it reached No.

7 on the Oricon chart and, together with the album of the same name, “Summer Heroine,” became a favorite among many fans.

Play it on a summer drive or at a resort, and you’ll feel that glittering mood of those days come rushing back.

It’s the perfect number for anyone who wants to bask in nostalgic summer memories or just lift their spirits.

Smile for MeKawai Naoko5rank/position

Smile for Me

With “Smile for Me” as its motto, this song by Naoko Kawai—who shone as an ’80s idol—celebrates the importance of smiling through her sweet, translucent voice.

It carries a positive message that gives you the courage to face forward even when confronted with hardship or sorrow.

Released in June 1981 as her fifth single, it peaked at No.

4 on the Oricon charts and became a major hit with sales of 260,000 copies.

It’s also known as the song she performed for her first appearance at the 32nd NHK Kōhaku Uta Gassen that same year.

At karaoke, imagining an original stand microphone adorned with a heart-shaped smiley will undoubtedly make your performance even more exciting!

Love letterKawai Naoko6rank/position

Love Letter Naoko Kawai

This song was released as the seventh single by Naoko Kawai, who is famous as one of the representative idols of the 1980s.

It’s an up-tempo, fast-paced track that naturally energizes listeners—a fine song that leaves that kind of impression.

Lavender LipsKawai Naoko7rank/position

Lavender Lips

Idol singer Naoko Kawai, who skillfully played a variety of instruments such as piano, guitar, mandolin, and synthesizer, also released songs she wrote and composed herself.

Her 22nd single, “Lavender Lips,” pairs a floating, airy ensemble with her translucent vocals in a way that’s irresistibly pleasing.

The lyrics, brimming with feelings for a loved one, resonate with the beautiful scenery of autumn and draw you into their world.

With a hooky beat that mirrors complex emotions, it’s a cute autumn song.

expand_lessRaise the rankingexpand_morelower

Hoshino Takashi

Report a problem