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Akina Nakamori Popular Songs Ranking [2026]

Akina Nakamori, whose singing ability and innate charm more than make up for her low voice and narrow range, produced a string of hit songs and even won the Japan Record Award.

She continued to thrive afterward with major successes like best-selling cover albums, but she has since fallen ill and is currently on a break to rest.

Akina Nakamori Popular Songs Ranking [2026] (11–20)

TATOONakamori Akina15rank/position

Akina Nakamori’s 21st single in total, released in May 1988.

Over a slightly jazzy arrangement and an eye-catching bass line, Nakamori’s vocals—richly resonant in the low to mid range—really shine.

With songs like this, especially in parts like the A-melody, many people tend to mumble, but try to sing it coolly so the lyrics are clearly intelligible.

I think mastering chest voice is essential for this track, and it’s one I’d definitely encourage women confident in their lower register to take on.

forbidden zoneNakamori Akina16rank/position

[Official] Akina Nakamori / Kinku (East Live Index 23 Live at Yomiuriland EAST, 1989.4.29 & 30) AKINA NAKAMORI / KINKU
forbidden zoneNakamori Akina

With lyrics penned by then up-and-coming songwriter Masao Urino and music composed by Haruomi Hosono of YMO, this song feels as if it captures the emotions of Akina Nakamori, a girl on the verge of stepping into an adult romance.

The contrast is striking between the A-melody—which is more like spoken lines than a melody, with little variation in pitch, almost like a murmur—and the chorus, which features wide melodic leaps.

Listening to the cool, composed aspects of the composition alongside Nakamori’s passionate singing is fascinating.

It’s a highly recommended track, especially for those who want to enjoy Nakamori’s songs at karaoke.

LA BOHEMENakamori Akina17rank/position

[Official] Akina Nakamori / LA BOHEME (Live on NHK Young Studio 101, 1986/4/20) [4K] AKINA NAKAMORI / LA BOHEME (NHK Young Studio)
LA BOHEMENakamori Akina

Speaking of Akina Nakamori’s signature songs, “DESIRE” comes to mind.

This track was released as the B-side to “DESIRE.” Not only is the tempo great, but the melody is too, making it popular among fans and a song she often performs live.

BLONDENakamori Akina18rank/position

“BLONDE” is Akina Nakamori’s 18th single, a song that highlights the stylishness of romance in the bubble era.

In particular, the cool vibrato that rings out in the chorus accentuates her elegance.

Many of her songs are inherently difficult to sing due to her superb vocal technique, but this one seems relatively easier to sing among them.

The melody stays within a range that’s manageable even for male singers, so it’s a recommended choice for men who want to try singing one of Akina’s songs.

Futari Shizuka – from Tenkawa Legend Murder CaseNakamori Akina19rank/position

(Official) Akina Nakamori / Futari Shizuka — from “The Murder Case of Tenka Legend” (~Yume~ ’91 Akina Nakamori Special Live at Makuhari Messe, July 28 & 29, 1991) Futari Shizuka
Futari Shizuka - from Tenkawa Legend Murder CaseNakamori Akina

Akina Nakamori, who is now treated like a legendary singer, also released a hit song this year.

I didn’t know this song, but her uniquely clear, transparent voice is still intact, and it reminded me again what a wonderful artist she is.

Star XMAS-BERRY: A Tender StarNakamori Akina20rank/position

Akina Nakamori, the songstress who evolved from an idol into a powerhouse artist in the 1980s.

Featured on her mini-album “SILENT LOVE,” released in December 1984, this piece is a ballad that portrays a romance revolving around a pink card sent at Christmas.

The narrative lyrics by Ayumu Date delicately weave emotions that are both heartrending and warm.

Its structure—shifting from a minor key with a resonant guitar solo to a gentler atmosphere—evokes both the stillness of the holy night and the quickening of the heart.

Despite its roughly six-minute length, the composition by Daisuke Inoue and arrangement by Ichizo Seo keep it engaging throughout, making it a quintessential number that symbolizes a Showa-era Christmas.

Akina Nakamori Popular Songs Ranking [2026] (21–30)

FinNakamori Akina21rank/position

An autumn classic that evokes both poignancy and beauty.

Released in September 1986, this song is characterized by lyrics depicting the end of a romance between a man and a woman.

Its restrained, cool vocals and sophisticated, film soundtrack–like production are captivating.

It enjoyed widespread popularity, including three consecutive weeks at No.

1 on TBS’s music program “The Best Ten.” Showcasing Akina Nakamori’s delicate emotional expression, it’s a perfect recommendation for long autumn nights.

A moving song that resonates with those who wish to heal the pain of heartbreak or overcome a farewell with someone dear.