A special feature on Mariya Takeuchi’s best songs: a must-hear collection of masterpieces for both longtime fans and first-time listeners.

Dream of You: The Blue Wind of Lemon-LimeTakeuchi Mariya

Nami covered “Dream of You ~Blue Wind of Lemon-Lime~ / Mariya Takeuchi” 2016-05-23 Otsuka Shisui deux

Debuted in November 1978 (Showa 53) with “Modotte Oide Watashi no Jikan.” Released as the second single on February 25, 1979 (Showa 54).

The subtitle sounds idol-like, but at the time she was a student at Keio University.

A dazzlingly bright song.

It peaked at No.

30 and sold 118,000 copies, gradually increasing her recognition.

Come back, my time.Takeuchi Mariya

Mariya Takeuchi – Come Back, My Time (Turning Back the Time) [1978]

Debut single released on November 25, 1978 (Showa 53).

With lyrics by Kazumi Yasui and music by Kazuhiko Kato, it’s a refreshing-sounding song born from a fortunate creative team.

At the time, she was apparently still attending Keio University, giving it an innocent feel.

On the Oricon charts it peaked at No.

84, with sales of 22,000 copies—still far from a breakout success.

Threads of FateTakeuchi Mariya

Mariya Takeuchi – Threads of Fate (Official Music Video)

The 37th single, which became the theme song for the NHK morning drama series Dan Dan.

Matching the story’s theme of encounters and bonds between people, this song also centers on the invisible threads of fate that connect us.

Its pop-tinged, mid-tempo ballad feel evokes the mystery of how people meet.

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Yoshizaki Keiko

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A Day of Joy and Loneliness (Your Wedding Day)Takeuchi Mariya

A Day of Joy and Loneliness / Mariya Takeuchi (covered by Robin)

This is a song a mother gave to her daughter as she leaves to be married.

“I’m happy, but lonely…” The days they spent together, and so many memories, drift through her heart.

The mother’s feelings—rejoicing in her daughter’s departure into a new life and wishing for her happiness—her blessings and her farewell, the complex emotions of a parent—have been woven into a gentle, unhurried melody.

Nostalgic, cherished memories spread warmly through the heart.

My beloved IzumoTakeuchi Mariya

“Beloved My Izumo,” sung by all performers (about 480 people) at the 22nd Chorus Gathering

Singer-songwriter Mariya Takeuchi is from Izumo City in Shimane Prefecture.

This song has been crafted into a pure and refreshing piece, reminiscent of a school anthem.

Even as she thrives away from Shimane, it’s a love-filled track that conveys her strong feelings for her hometown and her enduring connection to it.

Lovely holidayTakeuchi Mariya

A Wonderful Holiday / Mariya Takeuchi – Guitar and Vocals (Cover)

A song by singer-songwriter Mariya Takeuchi, who balances family life and music and is even dubbed a “full-time housewife singer-songwriter.” Included on her 31st single, Nostalgia, it was originally written as a commercial song for KFC Japan’s Christmas-related products and has been used for many years since.

It features tricky chords like Csus4 and F#m7-5, rapid chord changes, and a bouncy shuffle beat, so it’s not easy—but once you master it, your guitar skills are sure to improve dramatically.

It’s a classic Christmas song that also brings the house down when you recreate its grand ensemble with a band.

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Hoshino Takashi

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Cheer upTakeuchi Mariya

Cheer Up – Mariya Takeuchi

It’s a song that Mariya Takeuchi wrote for actress Hiroko Yakushimaru, which Takeuchi later covered herself.

It’s meant to encourage a friend after a heartbreak, making it a perfect pick when you go to karaoke with friends.

Many people now think of it as Mariya Takeuchi’s song, but in fact it was originally a song she provided to someone else.