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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Best Songs of Mariya Takeuchi: A must-listen collection of masterpieces for both fans and first-time listeners (11–20)
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.
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.
A yardstick for happinessTakeuchi Mariya
It’s their 36th single, released in 2008.
It served as the theme song for “Around 40: Women with Many Requests,” starring Yuki Amami, who also took part in the chorus.
With its upbeat rhythm, it’s an encouraging, energizing song.
Wonderful HolidayTakeuchi Mariya
It’s included on the single “Nostalgia,” released in 2001.
The song was written specifically for a Kentucky Fried Chicken Christmas commercial, so I think you often hear it around the holiday season.
It evokes a wintry feeling while still being very uplifting.
Mysterious Peach PieTakeuchi Mariya
This was the Shiseido spring campaign commercial song in 1980.
Many people probably came to like it after hearing it repeatedly on TV.
With this song, she made her first entry into the Oricon Top 10.
Although she didn’t appear on television very often, she actively performed on music shows for this song, such as TBS’s “The Best Ten” and Fuji TV’s “Yoru no Hit Studio.” It’s a pleasant, easy-listening pop number that suits her slightly lower voice.
Seriously Only You (Let’s Get Married)Takeuchi Mariya
It’s a classic that seems made for weddings, opening with an intro that quotes Mendelssohn’s “Wedding March.” The proposal words, written entirely in English, resonate as a straightforward message of love.
Included on Mariya Takeuchi’s April 1984 album “VARIETY,” the song was produced by Tatsuro Yamashita.
It’s also well known that Ryuichi Sakamoto took part in the intro performance, and that it was used as the image song for Kagome’s “Libera” in 1984 and as a Nissan “Cefiro” commercial song starting in August 1994.
Brimming with a happy atmosphere, it would be perfect to play during the entrance at your reception or for the cake-cutting scene.
Mariya Takeuchi Best Songs Special: A must-listen collection of masterpieces for both fans and first-time listeners (21–30)
How to Find HappinessTakeuchi Mariya
This commercial, which aired in 2008, features Yui Aragaki riding a bicycle through a town on a hill overlooking the sea.
It highlights how the inclusion of jojoba oil leaves hair with a glossy finish, as if treated with an oil treatment.
In the latter half of the commercial, there’s a scene where Aragaki lets down her previously tied hair, with a close-up emphasizing its silky smoothness.
The background music used is Mariya Takeuchi’s “Shiawase no Sagashikata” (How to Find Happiness).
Released in 1993, the song was previously featured in an AGF commercial and was also chosen as the theme song for the film “Someday, Some Time… Forever.” The lyrics depict happy moments found in everyday life, making it a song that prompts listeners to notice the happiness around them.
