A special feature on Mariya Takeuchi’s best songs: a must-hear collection of masterpieces for both longtime fans and first-time listeners.
Mariya Takeuchi has been at the forefront of Japan’s pop scene for over 40 years since her 1978 debut.
Her songs—led by sophisticated melodies and an urban sound that have captivated countless listeners—continue to be loved across generations.
Around 2017, she saw a resurgence in international recognition through “Plastic Love.” Another major appeal is how her lyrics naturally evoke vivid scenes and her warm musical style offers comfort to the heart.
Here, we feature a selection of Mariya Takeuchi’s exquisite masterpieces!
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Mariya Takeuchi Best Songs Special. A must-hear collection of masterpieces for both fans and first-time listeners (1–10)
Cheer up!Takeuchi Mariya
A song released in 1984, written and composed by Mariya Takeuchi and provided to Hiroko Yakushimaru.
It directly expresses the desire to encourage an acquaintance, and its straightforward lyrics and gentle vocals are deeply moving.
It’s inspiring and uplifting.
camouflageTakeuchi Mariya
It’s the 27th single, released in 1998.
It became the theme song for the drama “Nemureru Mori” (Sleeping Forest).
The song is also famous for the depth of its lyrics, which drew a lot of attention.
She casually sings such profound lyrics—she really is a genius.
The English lines at the end also stick in your ears.
Single AgainTakeuchi Mariya
A song known as the eighth theme for Nippon TV’s “Tuesday Suspense Theater.” Its indirect way of singing about “cheating” may have made it a fitting choice for a suspense theme.
It portrays the complex feelings of a woman who was dumped, still unable to forget her ex after hearing news of him on the grapevine.
Her low yet clear voice shapes her into a poised woman who doesn’t sink into darkness.
Best Songs of Mariya Takeuchi: A must-listen collection of masterpieces for both fans and first-time listeners (11–20)
Stop fightingTakeuchi Mariya
This is a song Mariya Takeuchi wrote in 1982 for idol Naoko Kawai as a single.
She later recorded a self-cover as well.
It charmingly depicts a girl’s slightly teasing behavior, set to a pleasant medium tempo.
confessionTakeuchi Mariya
Released on September 18, 1990.
Following the previous single “Single Again,” it was used as the theme song for Tuesday Suspense Theater.
After Hiromi Iwasaki, many singers took on the theme song for the series, but she is the best at giving voice to the world of adult human drama.
It peaked at No.
3 and sold 385,000 copies.
Manhattan KissTakeuchi Mariya
Released on May 25, 1992.
It was the theme song for the film “Manhattan Kiss.” This was the peak of the bubble era.
Stories of romance at resorts—like in “Take Me Skiing”—were popular.
Even though this song deals with an affair, it has a buoyant brightness that reflects the bubble mood.
It peaked at No.
11 and sold 208,000 copies.
Apple Papple PrincessTakeuchi Mariya
Among Mariya Takeuchi’s songs, this techno kayō-style track stands out as particularly unique.
Released as a single in December 1981, it marked a milestone for Takeuchi just before she paused her career due to marriage and childbirth.
Broadcast on NHK’s “Minna no Uta,” the song bursts with rhythmic, spell-like wordplay! You can almost picture a pajama-clad princess dozing and dashing through a world of dreams.
It’s surprising, isn’t it, that the composition was by Kunihiko Kase, the arrangement by Kenji Omura, and the chorus featured Taeko Onuki and EPO.
It’s the perfect song when you want to experience a charming appeal that’s a little different from her usual city pop.