Songs by female artists you often hear on YouTube Shorts

spin; weave; compose (e.g., a story)tota

Tsumugu / Tota

Singer-songwriter Tota, known for a sound that incorporates indie rock and synth-pop, has been drawing attention.

Released in February 2023 and included on the debut album “oidaki,” this digital single features a voice that leaves a deep impression as it speaks to the heart.

When a short version was posted on social media in June 2021, it spread rapidly, and the performance on the YouTube channel THE FIRST TAKE also became a major topic.

This work is a love song that depicts parting with someone dear, and a prayer for the future that continues despite it.

The lyrics, which evoke scenes of sending one’s feelings on the sky’s tears and the wind’s song, may leave you with a bittersweet ache just by listening.

It’s sure to gently stay by the side of a heart sunk in the sorrow of farewell.

To all my ex-girlfriendsKoresawa

Koresawa - To All My Ex-Girlfriends [Lyric Video]

A happy love song with a fresh twist: expressing “thank you” to his ex-girlfriends.

It’s a track released in September 2024 by Koresawa, a popular singer-songwriter known for her no-appearance-in-media style.

Contrary to what the title suggests, it’s remarkably positive, conveying a sincere gratitude for all past relationships that helped shape who he is now.

The song was later included on the album “To the You Who Chose Me and the You Who Didn’t.” It’s a track you’ll want to listen to when you feel like affirming everything—past loves and present happiness alike.

Sniper.Yuika

Sniper. / “Yuika” [MV]

This is a pop number by Yuika, who has been gaining buzz thanks to dance videos on TikTok.

The song comically portrays a one-sided-crush strategy, treating the person she likes as a “target” and aiming straight for their heart.

The play-by-play, live-broadcast-style lyrics are memorable, and listening to it really makes your heart flutter! Yuika wrote this track when she was a second-year high school student; it was released digitally in April 2024 and later included on the album “Longing for Navy.” With its up-tempo melody and the protagonist’s earnest feelings, it’s a song that sends emotions soaring.

If you’re in the middle of a crush, you might just find yourself unable to sit still when you listen!

If you call it loveUru

[Official] Uru “If You Call It Love” LIVE “Uru Tour 2023 ‘contrast’” on WOWOW Plus

This work portrays the bonds that drive us to protect our loved ones no matter the hardship.

Released by singer-songwriter Uru—who gained attention through her activity on YouTube—in April 2022, it was chosen as the theme song for the drama “My Family.” The lyrics express how experiencing regret and setbacks can deepen one’s feelings for those by their side.

Beginning with a gentle piano and building into a sweeping melody that overflows with emotion, the piece is breathtaking.

Storylike lyrics and Uru’s clear, tender voice that wraps around them will resonate deeply with listeners.

It’s a moving ballad that lets you reaffirm the warm love you feel for your family or partner.

Because you are hereUru

[Official] Uru “Because You Are Here” — Theme Song for TBS Sunday Theater ‘Ship of Theseus’

A number by Uru, whose captivating voice feels like it wraps gently around the listener’s heart.

This song was written as the theme for the drama “Theseus no Fune” starring Ryoma Takeuchi.

Just having someone important to you can give you the strength to overcome anything and keep going.

The lyrics are filled with a warm message that makes you feel that way.

They also tie in with the drama’s story, so many listeners will likely find parts they can relate to.

Released in February 2020, it is also included on the album “Orion Blue.” If you listen to it while thinking of someone you can no longer meet, you might find tears falling naturally.

Baby youyuka

Yuka “Baby you” Music Video

Singer-songwriter Yuka, who rose to prominence thanks to social media, has been turning heads.

Her major-label debut single, released in January 2023, won the Music category of the TikTok First Half Trend Awards 2023 and became a viral hit both in Japan and abroad.

Co-written with Takahito Uchisawa of androp, the track boasts an irresistibly catchy melody that sticks in your head after just one listen.

The lyrics straightforwardly convey an overflowing feeling of love, sure to make your heart flutter just by listening.

It’s no wonder it’s so popular in fan-edits and couple videos—the feel-good vibe is undeniable.

Also included on the album “messy bag,” this is an exceptionally cute pop song that’s perfect for moments when your affection for someone special is surging.

Give it a listen.

smileAnly

Anly – Smile Music Video (2016 Release)

A gem of a ballad that gives you the courage to keep looking forward no matter what.

Sung by Anly, a singer-songwriter from Ie Island in Okinawa, the song stands out for its straightforward message of staying smiling especially in tough times.

Carried by a warm sound with the soothing tones of acoustic guitar, it gently seeps into the listener’s heart.

Released in March 2016, the track was used as the theme song for the special drama “Boku no Inochi,” based on the true story of a boy with a serious illness and his family.

With lyrics celebrating the bonds between loved ones, it’s perfect for graduations and new beginnings.

If you listen when you’re feeling a little down, you’ll be wrapped in a kindness that feels like a gentle nudge forward.

Blue JeansHANA

HANA / Blue Jeans -Music Video-

A mid-tempo ballad that portrays a tender yet slightly bittersweet love, like a pair of well-worn jeans.

This track, released in July 2025 by HANA, who emerged from the audition show “No No Girls,” features lyrics written by producer Chanmina.

You can really feel the ache of nighttime anxiety—wondering “When will we meet again?”—and the loss of confidence that comes from comparing yourself to others.

Although their debut single “ROSE” topped the charts, this release also includes a collaboration with the casual brand DIESEL.

It’s the kind of song that will gently stay by your side on sleepless nights spent worrying about love or when you want to sort out your feelings.

You and the summer music festivalSHISHAMO

SHISHAMO “You and the Summer Festival”

Are there people out there imagining what it would be like to go to a summer music festival with that special someone they adore? This song by the three-piece girls’ band SHISHAMO is packed with that kind of sweet, bittersweet youth.

The track is set around a festival date with someone you’re interested in.

It captures both a passion for music and the delicate emotional ups and downs of worrying about how the other person sees you—guaranteed to make your heart flutter.

Released in July 2014, the song is also included on the album “SHISHAMO 2.” It was used as the ending theme for TV Tokyo’s “JAPAN COUNTDOWN,” reaching many listeners.

If you want to start a summer romance, this song will surely give you the courage you need.

It’s also highly recommended for couples to listen to together!

Shine in the cruel nightLiSA

LiSA 'Shine in the Cruel Night' MUSIC CLIP

It’s a rock number that passionately sings, with all its soul, that a light of hope shines even in the cruelest of nights.

In this song by LiSA, a leading singer in the anime music scene, Yuki Kajiura’s grand orchestration and intense sound hit you right in the chest.

The lyrics depict an unyielding resolve that believes in bonds stronger than hatred and pushes toward the light beyond the darkness, while LiSA’s emotional vocals leave a powerful impression on the listener.

The track was released in July 2025 as her 24th single and was selected as the theme song for the film Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba – Infinity Castle Arc, Chapter One: Akaza’s Return.

Deeply intertwined with the story’s worldview, it’s a song that can surely grant you a special strength when you’re trying to overcome something or in need of courage.