Akiko Yano is a solo artist known for her style of singing while playing a grand piano.
Her husband is the renowned Ryuichi Sakamoto, and their daughter is the singer Miu Sakamoto.
She actively incorporates a wide range of music, including collaborations with artists like Tamio Okuda and MIYA from THE BOOM.
Here is a ranking of her popular songs.
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Akiko Yano Popular Songs Ranking [2026] (1–10)
Harusaki KobeniYano Akiko1rank/position

Released as a single in February 1981, this song took the nation by storm as the theme for a Kanebo Cosmetics commercial.
The lyrics were written by Shigesato Itoi, and members of YMO contributed to the arrangement, creating a sound where technopop and kayōkyoku blend exquisitely—still sounding fresh today.
Included on the album “Tadaima.,” it’s one of Akiko Yano’s signature works, with her light, buoyant piano and bouncy vocals joyfully announcing the arrival of spring.
The word “Kobeni” in the lyrics linked directly to the image of a new product at the time, and for many, just hearing the song brings back memories of that glamorous season.
If you’re in your 50s, the moment the intro plays, you’ll be transported back to who you were then—a bright, fun track that makes you feel the spring.
Only oneYano Akiko2rank/position

A song by Akiko Yano, a singer-songwriter with a uniquely distinctive place in the music scene.
It was originally written for Agnes Chan, but Yano’s self-cover version is exceptionally well done.
The lyrics are filled with beautiful imagery, like a ring made of stardust and an eau de cologne crafted from flowers gathered from all over the world.
Dinner is ready.Yano Akiko3rank/position

“Gohan ga Dekita yo” is a song included on Akiko Yano’s 1980 album of the same name, Gohan ga Dekita yo.
Co-produced with Ryuichi Sakamoto, it’s a celebrated masterpiece notable for the full participation of YMO members and staff of the time.
The lyrics convey a sense of family bonds and warmth, expressing the joys and sorrows found in everyday life.
The album also features technopop elements that make inventive use of synthesizers, offering an experimental sound.
For older listeners, its message about valuing family and human connections may resonate deeply.
Reminiscing about the past and singing together will surely make for a delightful time.
I stopped being alone.Yano Akiko4rank/position

Akiko Yano’s “Hitoribocchi wa Yameta,” with its distinctive piano and conversational vocals that sink into the heart, is a very warm song filled with a positive resolve to cut ties with loneliness and connect with the people who matter.
Released as a single in July 1999, it was chosen as the theme song for Studio Ghibli’s film “My Neighbors the Yamadas.” It was also included on the album “Go Girl,” released the same year.
Alongside the film’s gentle atmosphere, this classic reminds us of the preciousness of everyday life.
The vocal range isn’t very wide, and the melody flows like casual speech, so even those who aren’t confident in their singing can relax and enjoy it.
Hum it when you’re feeling lonely or need courage, and you’ll likely feel your heart grow lighter!
Dream ChickYano Akiko5rank/position

This is Akiko Yano’s 17th single, released on July 1, 1994, and it was used as an insert song for the Fuji TV children’s program Ponkikkies.
With Yano’s gently enveloping vocals and tender instrumental tones that evoke nostalgia, this song may soothe you and fill you with warmth when listened to together with the visuals.
telephone lineYano Akiko6rank/position

It was used as an insert song in Isao Takahata’s film My Neighbors the Yamadas, which is based on a four-panel manga.
In the story, it plays in the background during a scene where the protagonist, after talking on the phone with his girlfriend, bursts with joy.
You can really feel the surge in excitement from the song itself.
Pleasant Music I Headlong RushYano Akiko7rank/position
A song that feels really pleasant with the rhythm swinging on the off-beat.
Akiko Yano’s light, airy melodies are as brilliant as ever.
It’s the kind of track that seems like it would play while you’re skipping outside.
I remember it being used in a scene in the show as well.
I love how its clear, transparent atmosphere blends seamlessly into everyday life.
For me, it conjures an image of bright light streaming through curtains—how did it sound to you?


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