[2025] A roundup of popular Japanese female singer-songwriters

music writerKOH-1
Started working as a music writer as a side job while employed at a record shop, and have been contributing to music magazines and web media for over 15 years. Although Western music is my main field, I always strive to stay curious with the motto, “I like what I like.” I have experience playing in a band, where I was a bassist responsible for songwriting and composition. Instruments I’ve performed on include bass, guitar, and piano. I resumed piano lessons after turning 40 and have been continuing ever since!

Singer-songwriters—artists who write lyrics and compose their own music—feel familiar to us, and many are active today.

In Japan, the term “singer-songwriter” is said to have taken hold in the 1970s, and it was also during this period that female singer-songwriters emerged who would go on to influence countless artists, not just their male counterparts.

In this article, we introduce female singer-songwriters who are indispensable to any discussion of Japanese music history.

Alongside legendary artists, we also feature Gen Z singer-songwriters, so if you love female singer-songwriters, this is a must-read!

[2025] Roundup of Popular Japanese Female Singer-Songwriters (71–80)

Don't give up on your dreamsTakako Okamura

Takako Okamura “Don’t Give Up on Your Dreams” OFFICIAL MUSIC VIDEO

Don't Give Up on Your Dreams by Takako Okamura

A single released in 1985.

Born in 1962.

From Aichi Prefecture.

A member of Aming.

The total number of albums sold to date exceeds 16 million.

This song suits Koshien perfectly—it was once even voted the number one favorite song among high school baseball players.

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Lovely RenaissanceEri Hiramatsu

Eri Hiramatsu — Wonderful Renaissance

Lovely Renaissance Eri Hiramatsu

A single released in 1990, it was the ending theme for the TV program “Ucchan Nanchan no Yarunara Yaraneba!” Born in 1964 and hailing from Hyogo Prefecture.

Her straightforward singing voice intertwines with the refreshing keyboard tones and lively programmed rhythms, creating an exceptionally pleasant sound.

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I believeAyaka

Ayaka – I believe

I believe Ayaka

Released as Ayaka’s first single, it served as the theme song for the TBS drama “Rondo.” Figure skater Miki Ando also used this song for her exhibition program in the 2006–2007 season.

The song conveys the importance of believing in yourself.

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Invisible WingsAi Kawashima

Invisible Wings / Ai Kawashima

Invisible Wings Ai Kawashima

Released as Ai Kawashima’s 9th single, it was used as the theme song for the Nippon TV program “Angura no Tsuboya Yobei.” It’s a song that feels encouraging when you listen to it.

Ai Kawashima also performed as the vocalist of I WiSH.

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No way to sayAyumi Hamasaki

Ayumi Hamasaki / No way to say (Short Ver.)

No way to say Hamasaki Ayumi

It was Ayumi Hamasaki’s 31st single, released in 2003.

Issued as the lead single from the mini-album “Memorial address,” it was featured in a commercial for the Panasonic portable MD player “MJ57.” With this song, she won the Grand Prize at the 45th Japan Record Awards, achieving an unprecedented third consecutive win.

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Every dayMao Abe

Mao Abe – Itsu no Hi mo [Official Music Video]

Mao Abe, Any Day

A single released in 2010.

Born in 1990, from Oita Prefecture.

She says that singing is “a means to connect with someone.” She often comes up with her songs when driven by impulse.

It’s a song whose gentle melody and spoken-like vocals seep into the heart.

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Cat’s EyeAnri

CAT'S EYE by Anri

Cat's Eye Anri

A single released in 1983, it was the opening theme for the anime “Cat’s Eye.” Born in 1961, from Kanagawa Prefecture.

Her real name is Eiko Kawashima.

Before becoming a singer, she reportedly worked as a fashion model.

Her sultry vocals and the extremely poppy, catchy melody make this such a masterpiece that it can’t be described merely as an anime song.

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In conclusion

As mentioned at the outset, from the Showa era to the present day in Reiwa, many distinctive female singer-songwriters have continued to produce wonderful masterpieces.

While reflecting each era, they keep creating songs loved across generations.

I encourage you to delve into their abilities and appeal as singer-songwriters yourself!