[2025] Japanese Female Artists: Trending Singers & Idols

Pop music writer/editorKEI
A style that keeps updating my favorites while loving mainstream and hit songs. I have experience writing articles for outlets like Utaten. Since I discovered music as a student, I’ve mainly listened to Japanese and Korean pop. 2000s J-POP and 2010s K-POP were my youth, and I’m also loosely into jazz and R&B. I enjoy good music across genres with a “good is good” mindset. Thanks to my past work environment (and its influence), I listened to a lot of classic rock and kayōkyoku, which may have broadened my tastes. At RAG MUSIC, I mainly cover K-POP. I focus on reviews that emphasize feelings people can relate to, and on editing aligned with local pride and hit potential. Thank you!
Editor-in-Chief, RAG MUSICKeisuke Hane
Editor-in-chief of RAG MUSIC. After working at a music studio and in wedding sound engineering, joined the RAG MUSIC editorial team in 2016. Experienced with various instruments: marching band in elementary school, clarinet in middle school wind ensemble, and drums in a band from high school onward. Drawing on personal music activities and professional experience, produces daily articles, including song introductions, features on music festivals around Japan, and live reports. Enjoys a wide range of music, from domestic and international rock to, more recently, a broad spectrum of J-pop.

What kind of music do you usually listen to?

There are many genres in Japanese music, and I’m sure some of you enjoy listening to songs by female artists.

These days, thanks to subscription services, you can instantly listen to plenty of songs—including any that catch your interest!

In this article, we’ll introduce female artists from Japan, both new and old, including trending singers and idols.

If you find a vocalist you like, be sure to check out their other songs too!

[2025] Japanese Female Artists: Trending Singers & Idols (31–40)

blue skySalyu

Salyu “Aozora” MV (Full)

Aozora Salyu

Salyu was discovered by music producer Takeshi Kobayashi and provided the vocals for songs in the 2001 film All About Lily Chou-Chou.

She made her solo debut in 2004 under the name salyu and began performing actively at music festivals such as ROCK IN JAPAN FESTIVAL and ap bank fes.

In 2006, she released the single “to U” as part of Bank Band with Salyu alongside Kazutoshi Sakurai and others, which reached No.

2 on the Oricon Singles Chart.

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IgnoreErika Ikuta

Erika Ikuta “Ignore” MV

Ignore Erika Ikuta

Erika Ikuta is known as an artist with a clear, beautiful singing voice and solid technique.

She debuted in 2011 as a first-generation member of Nogizaka46 and, alongside her idol activities, also thrived as a musical theater actress.

After graduating from Nogizaka46 in 2021, she transitioned to a solo career.

In 2024, she released her first EP, “capriccioso,” establishing a unique world that fuses her classical roots with pop music.

Having studied piano since childhood, she boasts numerous accolades, including being a prizewinner in the Piano Division of the 21st Japan Classical Music Competition and receiving the 8th Tokiko Iwatani Encouragement Award.

With a wide repertoire ranging from musical theater classics to pop, Ikuta’s expressive voice captivates listeners’ hearts.

Her music is highly recommended for those seeking encounters with beautiful sound.

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moreaiko

aiko - “More” music video

More aiko

Aiko made her debut in 1998 with the single “Ashita,” and she’s a popular artist known for her straightforward personality and songs with a cute, whimsical worldview.

Her signature tracks include “Kabutomushi,” “Boyfriend,” and “Kira Kira.” Jazz musician and critic Naruyoshi Kikuchi has praised Aiko as “the best singer of blue notes in Japan,” demonstrating the jazz elements in her singing.

She has many songs about romance, and she’s an artist the younger generation should definitely listen to!

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dizzinessChihiro Onitsuka

Chihiro Onitsuka – Dizziness

Dizziness Chihiro Onitsuka

A female singer-songwriter who made a striking impression on many listeners with her second single, “Gekkou,” released in 2000.

Her powerful yet richly nuanced voice and songs that depict a singular worldview have surely moved many hearts.

Not only does she radiate an overwhelming presence as an artist, but it’s also remarkable that during her elementary and junior high school years she earned top marks—5s—in nearly every subject on her report cards.

At the same time, without flaunting her academic ability, she’s known for her down-to-earth side—befriending comedians and bringing food to people experiencing homelessness—making her a musician whose majestic voice is matched by an approachable, endearing personality.

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seesawtuki.

tuki. “Seesaw” Official Music Video

Seesaw tuki.

Singer-songwriter tuki.

, whose transparent vocals and delicate singing technique are bringing a fresh breeze to the music scene.

They began their music career in 2022 and have gained popularity through posts on YouTube and TikTok.

While rooted in J-pop, they have built a unique world with simple yet powerful melodies and striking lyrics.

Their mysterious style of performing without revealing their face has also drawn attention, and in December 2023, a collaboration with popular singer Yuuri surpassed 20 million views—an impressive achievement.

In January 2024, they appeared on NHK’s Kōhaku Uta Gassen and were also selected for Spotify’s “RADAR: Early Noise 2024,” marking them as a shining, highly skilled young artist of the moment.

With clear vocals and songs that resonate with the heart, they’re especially recommended for those who want to soothe their soul on a quiet night.

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[2025] Japanese female artists: trending singers & idols (41–50)

ECHOLittle Glee Monster

Little Glee Monster 『ECHO』

ECHOLittle Glee Monster

If we’re introducing recommended female artists of the Reiwa era, we can’t leave these women out! Little Glee Monster, a female vocal group, has enjoyed strong popularity—especially among younger listeners—since their major debut in 2014.

Their greatest charm is, without a doubt, their layered harmonies.

The way the five members divide into parts and blend their voices is beautiful—truly goosebump-inducing! They also feature a wide range of songs, from gentle ballads to bright, poppy tracks, and even cool, edgy numbers.

If you’re curious, be sure to check out a variety of their songs!

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EdisonWednesday Campanella

Wednesday Campanella “Edison”

Edison Wednesday Campanella

Wednesday Campanella is an artist with an addictive, distinctive sound and worldview.

The group was formed in 2012 when member Dir.

F invited KOM_I, the original vocalist, and they made their debut on YouTube.

In 2016, they made their major-label debut with the EP “UMA,” and two years later they handled the soundtrack for the film “Cat Knows You.” In 2021, KOM_I left the group and Utaha joined as the second vocalist.

On TikTok, their 2022 track “Edison” went viral, surpassing 500 million views.

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