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Saki Kubota Popular Song Rankings [2026]

Saki Kubota Popular Song Rankings [2026]
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Singer-songwriter Saki Kubota, who debuted in 1979 and now performs under the name Sayuri Kume.

She is also known for having been involved with music from a young age—taking classical piano lessons from the age of four and playing keyboards in a cover band during her junior high school years.

Her signature song “Ihōjin” (Stranger) continues to be loved across generations, as many artists still cover it today.

This time, we present a ranking of Saki Kubota’s most popular songs!

Saki Kubota Popular Song Rankings [2026]

foreignerKUBOTA Saki1rank/position

Saki Kubota "Ihōjin" Animated Music Video
foreignerKUBOTA Saki

A massive hit that can’t be left out of the Showa-era kayōkyoku genre, it topped the Oricon weekly chart and ranked second for the year in 1980.

I’ve heard the title was originally “Shiroi Asa” (White Morning) and was changed to “Ihōjin” (Stranger) at the producer’s request.

The verse sits low and the chorus is high, but if you sing with a breathy, relaxed tone, you’ll capture the mood and hit the highs without strain.

Basically, focus on head resonance and keep it light.

It might work to add a spoken quality to the chorus.

The key is to avoid forcing and make good use of your breath!

Kubota Mami
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Stranger – Theme of the Silk RoadKUBOTA Saki2rank/position

Saki Kubota – Ihōjin (The Stranger) by Saki Kubota
Stranger – Theme of the Silk RoadKUBOTA Saki

A song known for its exotic resonance and mysterious atmosphere.

Released in October 1979 as Saki Kubota’s debut single, it gradually gained popularity.

It was also used in a Sanyo Electric commercial, and in December of the same year it reached No.

1 on the Oricon charts.

The record became a massive hit, surpassing one million copies sold.

Centered on the theme of heartbreak, the song expresses the feeling of being in a foreign land and the loneliness that comes from having a sensibility different from those around you.

It also carries a hopeful message that time will heal emotional wounds.

The sound of the hammered dulcimer, a traditional folk instrument, is particularly striking, making this a recommended track for those who want to savor a richly exotic mood.

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