Classic songs about women. Recommended popular tracks.
Although J-pop and rock are commonplace in Japan’s music scene today, there was a time when enka and kayōkyoku were at the center.
Here is a list of masterpieces from that era in Japan, all themed around “women.” Some sing of tragic love, others of adultery—different situations, yet the abundance of love songs reminds us that, in every era, love is essential for women.
- Masterpieces that sing about women. Recommended popular songs.
- Masterpieces about girls: recommended popular songs
- A number I’d recommend to the yutori generation—one I’d like women to sing
- Women’s Enka: A collection of classic enka songs expressing women’s emotions
- Popular Japanese songs among women in their 50s: recommended classics and staple tracks
- Songs women like. Famous and popular Japanese songs.
- Nostalgic Showa-era heartbreak songs. Soothe your heart with timeless classics that can move women in their 60s to tears.
- Recommended breakup songs for women in their 50s: classic and popular Japanese tracks
- [For Women] A roundup of enka songs that can score high in karaoke
- [For Women] Masterpiece Enka Songs with a High Degree of Difficulty
- Recommended heartbreak songs for women in their 40s: classic and popular Japanese hits
- [Must read] Songs with great lyrics. Moving songs you’ll want to listen to while reading the lyrics
- [Tearjerker] Songs that make your heart tremble with tears & moving tracks with lyrics that touch the soul
Masterpieces that sing of women: Recommended popular songs (61–70)
Good-bye, My LoveAn Ruisu
This is a song that was a hit in the 1970s.
It’s a heartbreak song, and the half-Japanese singer Ann Lewis delivers it with outstanding vocal prowess, beautifully expressing a woman’s aching heart.
Ann Lewis also has other massive hits such as “Roppongi Shinju” and “Aa Mujou.”
Tear SongOka Midori
A song that gently portrays a woman’s loneliness, paired with Midori Oka’s translucent vocals, becomes a track that truly touches the heart.
The lyrics delicately express the inner life of a woman living in a corner of the big city, embracing a universal theme that anyone can relate to.
Released in February 2024, this piece has been loved by many as one of Midori Oka’s signature works.
It’s especially recommended for those moments on the subway ride home from work, when you suddenly feel like reflecting on your life.
This song will stay close to your heart and give you hope for tomorrow.
Cherry GirlKōda Kumi
It’s a song packed with Kumi Koda’s signature sexy-cool vibe.
On top of that, it has a touch of feminine dominance, giving it a charming little-devil allure.
Also, even when the actions might seem geared toward men at first glance, you can still feel a strong, undeniable femininity coming through.
I love you, I love you, I love you.Kōda Kumi
A smash hit by Koda Kumi, an artist who continues to lead Japan’s music scene with her unforgettable, powerful husky voice and stunning live performances.
It’s a love song that candidly pours out her overflowing feelings for a special man.
Last LoveKato Miria
A classic by Miliyah Kato that poignantly sings of heartbreak.
The repeated lines “I’ll love you forever” and “I wanted to be with you always” pierce the heart with lingering attachment and regret for a lost lover.
Memories of special days spent together—birthdays, Christmas—come rushing back, and the lyrics deeply evoke the loneliness of being on your own.
Released in June 2010, the song reached No.
13 on the Oricon charts.
It’s a track that offers comfort to those hoping to heal from heartbreak or who have experienced the loss of someone dear.
Love is…Kato Miria
A massively popular love song by Miliyah Kato, an artist who continues to lead Japan’s music scene with universally recognized, overwhelming vocal prowess and a distinctive husky voice.
It’s a ballad that straightforwardly expresses a wish for a bright future for a happy couple.
Good -joshi-Sakaguchi Ami
An encouraging song that gently wraps you in a soft, warm voice, depicting love from the perspective of a down-to-earth woman.
Released in July 2017 as her major-label debut single, it was chosen as the ending theme by FM stations across Japan.
As Yumebo Sakaguchi herself says, it “reflects my own experiences,” and the lyrics vividly capture the emotions after a breakup.
It’s a track that gives you the spark to say, “Even after we part, I’m going to keep looking forward and living my life!” Highly recommended for women struggling with love or anyone who wants to cherish their true self.