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)
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.
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.
Best Songs of Mariya Takeuchi: A must-listen collection of masterpieces for both fans and first-time listeners (11–20)
Door of LifeTakeuchi Mariya
She’s been releasing great songs for a long time, and this is a track she created after entering her fifties.
Listening to it, I was once again moved by her unwavering talent.
It’s the kind of song that slips effortlessly into the hearts of listeners across generations and genders, giving them a boost of energy.
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.
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.
Once moreTakeuchi Mariya
A single released in 1984.
It was used as the theme song for the drama “Kurenai-zoku no Hanran.” Her songs are often chosen as drama theme songs, and this one also gained popularity for its lyrics that resonate with the story.
It is one of her songs that conveys a woman’s feelings.