Makoto Kawamoto Popular Songs Ranking [2026]

1/2Kawamoto Makoto1rank/position

【MV】Makoto Kawamoto “1/2”

A timeless youth anthem where tender ache and deep affection overflow, carried by the comforting resonance of acoustic guitar.

The lyrics delicately depict a powerful wish to become one with another, and the frustration of that wish remaining out of reach, gently embracing the kind of love we’ve all felt.

Seamlessly blending Makoto Kawamoto’s translucent voice with her unique worldview, the song reached No.

2 on the Oricon Weekly Chart after its release in March 1997, and etched itself into many hearts as the opening theme of the anime Rurouni Kenshin.

It’s a heartwarming track you’ll want to listen to when you long to share in pure feelings, thinking of someone special.

The Talent for LoveKawamoto Makoto2rank/position

[MV] Makoto Kawamoto - 'The Talent for Love'

Makoto Kawamoto, known as a pioneer among guitar-playing female singers, has left us with many great songs.

Among them, the one I especially recommend for women in their 40s because it’s easy to sing is “Ai no Sainō” (The Talent for Love).

Since singer-songwriter Yasuyuki Okamura composed it, the track leans a bit toward groove, but the vocal range is narrow, so the overall difficulty is fairly low.

If you lock into the rhythm, you can likely aim for a high score at karaoke.

Be sure to add it to your repertoire.

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Ryo

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cherry blossomKawamoto Makoto3rank/position

[MV] Makoto Kawamoto “Sakura”

A signature song by singer-songwriter Makoto Kawamoto that beautifully depicts a graduation scene from student days.

A buoyant, piano-driven riff intertwines with a bittersweet melody and delicate vocals, gently expressing the many emotions of youth.

From the sorrow of parting with friends to anxiety about new surroundings, and even the stirrings of a faint crush, this gem of a work vividly captures the fluctuations of a young heart.

Released in April 1998, it reached No.

2 on the Oricon charts.

The single also includes the track “Donuts no Ring,” which was later featured on the album gobbledygook.

It’s a graduation- and cherry blossom–themed song perfect for listening to as spring arrives.

DNAKawamoto Makoto4rank/position

[MV] Makoto Kawamoto “DNA”

The music program HEY! HEY! HEY! MUSIC CHAMP, which aired starting in 1994—many of you likely watched it.

The ending theme etched into many people’s memories is DNA.

This is Makoto Kawamoto’s second single.

Her powerful vocals and the cool image of her playing acoustic guitar became a hot topic, turning the song into a big hit and making her an instant star.

To relive those striking performance scenes, we recommend checking out the music video.

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yamamoto

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FRAGILEKawamoto Makoto5rank/position

[PV] Makoto Kawamoto - FRAGILE

An avant-garde piece that completely captivates you with its distinctive atmosphere.

It’s a song by singer-songwriter Makoto Kawamoto, known for her unique musical style, released in 2000 as her seventh single.

Kawamoto’s powerful vocals shine over the curious rhythm and sound, which carry hints of funky music, resulting in a highly addictive track.

The scat sections between verses really stick in your ears.

Rather than imitating Kawamoto’s singing style, it might be more fun to sing it in your own way, just as you feel.

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Araki Jakkan

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low-grade feverKawamoto Makoto6rank/position

[MV] Makoto Kawamoto “Slight Fever”

Released as Makoto Kawamoto’s sixth single, this song was used as the theme for the TBS drama “God of Love.” The lyrics charmingly compare the heat between lovers to a “slight fever,” and the track makes full use of Kawamoto’s distinctive voice.

sunflowerKawamoto Makoto7rank/position

Makoto Kawamoto “Sunflower” / Makoto Kawamoto – Himawari

A pioneering “guitar girl” known for hits like “1/2,” Makoto Kawamoto’s summer song “Himawari” is a track from her debut album released in 1997, which became a million seller.

Sometimes the scent of flowers can bring back memories, can’t it? This song, which depicts summer memories related to sunflowers and promises made in childhood, is wrapped in a bright yet slightly bittersweet mood.

It’s a standout track showcasing the exceptional expression of Makoto Kawamoto, often hailed as a genius, bringing back vivid memories from that time.

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KEI

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