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Mariya Takeuchi Ballad Songs: Popular Song Rankings [2026]
Both the music and the lyrics overflow with kindness.She is one of Japan’s leading female singer-songwriters.She is also well known as Tatsuro Yamashita’s wife.She has created numerous classic songs and is loved by people of all ages, with some of her works even appearing in music textbooks.She is truly a national icon.In this feature, we take a closer look at her.We researched the messages from fans that have been sent to our site so far.From those, we selected the most highly praised songs and ranked them.Whether you’re already a big fan or just discovering her for the first time, please take a look.
Mariya Takeuchi Ballad Songs: Popular Song Rankings [2026]
Door of LifeTakeuchi Mariya1rank/position
This is a song by Mariya Takeuchi that conveys the image of carefully looking back on the long journey of life.
After being included on the album “Denim,” it was also released as a single and chosen as the theme song for the drama “Musume no Kekkon” (A Daughter’s Marriage).
Its gentle sound, tinged with elements of country music, leaves an impression and evokes a sense of retracing one’s path and feeling nostalgic about the past.
Reflecting on human connections formed over a long span of time, the song carries a warm atmosphere that gently moves the heart.
Cheer up!Takeuchi Mariya2rank/position
Speaking of Mariya Takeuchi, she is a female singer-songwriter known not only for singing herself but also for producing medium-tempo ballads for many musicians.
“Genki wo Dashite” features a very beautiful melody.
confessionTakeuchi Mariya3rank/position
Released in 1990 as the 19th single, it became a major hit after being chosen as the theme song for the TV drama Tuesday Suspense Theater.
The song portrays the wavering heart of a woman whose ex-boyfriend confesses his love to her again over the phone.
The ringing phone sound at the beginning of the track really evokes the era.
With its simple, beautiful melody and universal lyrics, this song is loved by a wide range of listeners.
Song of LifeTakeuchi Mariya4rank/position
This song was created in 2009 as the theme for the NHK drama “Pioneers,” with lyrics written by Mariya Takeuchi under the pen name Miyabi.
“Inochi no Uta,” which includes spoken-style elements, is a ballad designed to be sung expressively without straining the vocal range.
The tempo is a relaxed 136, making it nice to sing each phrase carefully.
In particular, for the A section, if you connect the words smoothly and articulate the final vowel sounds clearly, the storytelling quality becomes stronger and the song improves as a whole.
There is a brief high note before the last chorus, but if you belt it you’ll end up using your throat, so try singing it lightly, almost like humming.
Rainy driveTakeuchi Mariya5rank/position
This is a masterpiece that resonates deeply, weaving an urban, sophisticated rain sound with jazz piano into a mature love story.
Mariya Takeuchi, often called the queen of city pop, paints an evening drive in the rain.
The lyrics delicately capture the twilight scenery reflected in the car window and the subtle shifts of the heart, gently stirring the listener’s senses.
Featured on the album “Miss M,” released in December 1980, this gem from the Tokyo recording sessions stands out with an evocative piano solo by Nobuyuki Shimizu.
It’s a work of passion, with both lyrics and music by Takeuchi herself.
Perfect for a rainy-day drive date or a quiet night by the window lost in thought.
A heartfelt recommendation for those who savor a lingering adult mood or are interested in Japanese ballads with a jazz-inflected touch.
Seriously, only youTakeuchi Mariya6rank/position
Has it already been two decades or so…? This song used to be a staple for candle-lighting ceremonies at weddings.
I think the gentle melody of the slow ballad and Mariya Takeuchi’s clear, pure voice perfectly matched the image of happiness held by young women at the time.
Dazzling candle flames and the smiles of the bride and groom are the images this song evokes.
SeptemberTakeuchi Mariya7rank/position
Singer-songwriter Mariya Takeuchi has been active since the 1970s and is known for signature songs like “Genki wo Dashite” (“Cheer Up”).
Among her works, the one that evokes the coming of autumn is “September,” released in 1979.
Its lyrics about parting with a loved one are perfectly matched by a sprightly band sound, and her voice gently wraps the sadness of farewell, offering comfort.
It’s a track you’ll want to listen to while taking in autumn’s natural scenery and cityscapes.
Be sure to pay attention to the poetic, story-like lyrics as well.
