[Songs I'd love women to sing!] Popular ballads performed by female artists

Accompanist / Piano InstructorYuri
Accompanist pianist × piano instructor × web writer. I began piano lessons at age four and, inspired by my piano teacher, decided to pursue music. I went on to specialized music programs in high school and university, where I discovered the appeal of accompanying instrumentalists and singers. Currently, alongside teaching piano, I work mainly in my home region of Aichi as an accompanist for flute, voice, choir, and more. Through lessons, my students often introduce me to trending songs, and my hobby is trying anything on the piano—Japanese and Western pop, commercial jingles, and beyond. Since 2021, I’ve also been active as a web writer, covering music and a variety of other genres.
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.

Many women say they love singing ballads, don’t they?

At karaoke, there are times when you don’t just want to hype up the room with upbeat tracks—you also want to deliver something tender and heartfelt.

So in this article, we’re introducing ballad songs by Japan’s leading female artists!

We’ve picked a wide range: from universally known masterpieces and timeless staples to the latest hits.

If you’re thinking, “I want to know popular ballads I can sing at karaoke,” or “I’m looking for Japanese ballads sung by women,” be sure to check this out.

Each track is unique yet soothing and moving—songs that heal our hearts and leave a lasting impression.

[Songs We Want Women to Sing!] Popular Ballads Sung by Female Artists (101–110)

It's nothing.Mone Kamishiraishi

“Nandemonaiya” Kamishiraishi Mone cover (live recording)

It's Nothing (Nandemonaiya) by Mone Kamishiraishi

The theme song of the 2016 blockbuster film Your Name.

Originally a RADWIMPS track, it was covered by Mone Kamishiraishi, who voiced one of the anime’s protagonists, Mitsuha Miyamizu.

It’s a popular ballad that’s often sung at karaoke.

It’s widely known—so much so that even elementary school kids sing it—making it a great choice for karaoke with children.

Although it’s a very quiet ballad, it’s a beautiful song that leaves a strong impression.

You’ll be glad to know that Mone Kamishiraishi’s version is also available in karaoke.

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Over The DistanceHitomi Yaida

Hitomi Yaida – Over The Distance

Over The Distance Hitomi Yaida

Singer-songwriter Hitomi Yaida started playing guitar at 19 and made her professional debut just two years later.

Her fourth single, Over The Distance, released as a double A-side with Look Back Again, was chosen as the campaign song for Japan Airlines’ “ACTIVE Hokkaido 2001.” The poignant lyrics depicting a long-distance romance, together with the spacious, floating ensemble, truly move the heart.

It’s a song many would love to hear women sing at karaoke, but be mindful when performing it—the vocal range is wide and the melodic leaps are large.

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Watarase BridgeChisato Moritaka

Chisato Moritaka 'Watarase Bridge' (Music Video)

Watarase-bashi Moritaka Chisato

This is Chisato Moritaka’s 17th single, released in 1993.

Its heartbreakingly poignant lyrics—about wanting to be with the one you love but being unable to—are beautifully matched by her clear, transparent vocals.

It’s one of those classic ballads that deserves to be sung for generations to come.

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remainingKayoko Yoshizawa

Kayoko Yoshizawa 'Left Behind' MUSIC VIDEO

Kayoko Yoshizawa who remains

A singer-songwriter with a unique worldview who grew up listening to Yosui Inoue’s songs as a child.

The secret to her popularity is that captivating voice where a young girl and a mature woman seem to take turns appearing.

The lyrics of her heartrending love songs resonate with women going through painful romances.

They’re songs you can’t help but play on repeat.

She’s a slightly mysterious songstress who tickles the heart.

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No-sideYumi Matsutoya

Yumi Matsutoya – No Side (Audio/Lyric)

No Side - Yumi Matsutoya

The title of this song uses the term “No Side,” which in rugby signifies the end of a match, and the lyrics depict the scene after the game is over.

Although it was released in 1984, it drew attention when it was featured in the special broadcast of “No Side Game” in May 2020.

Its use came at a time when the Rugby World Cup in 2019 had stirred excitement and interest, so many people likely remember it.

The lyrics are deeply moving and soothe the hearts of those who have given their all.

It’s a classic that I’d love to hear sung by a woman with a gentle voice.

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Songs We Want Women to Sing! Popular Ballads Performed by Female Artists (111–120)

Love SongGO!GO!7188

Koi no Uta – GO!GO!7188

Koi no Uta GO!GO!7188

GO!GO!7188 is a three-piece rock band that gained popularity with songs featuring melodies that evoke a distinctly Japanese feel set against an alternative rock sound.

Their third single, Koi no Uta, became a long-running hit despite having no tie-in.

Its delicate lyrics portraying the emotions of unrequited love, paired with a lyrical ensemble and melody, are truly moving.

With its relaxed tempo, it’s easy to sing at karaoke, and it’s a classic ballad we especially recommend for female singers.

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maybeYOASOBI

YOASOBI “Tabun” Official Music Video

Probably YOASOBI

A song by the music duo YOASOBI, who have gained popularity with their unique approach of “turning novels into music.” The lyrics tell a poignant, painful story: a lover you lived with moves out, and you spend your days in a room still scattered with traces of the two of you, unable to let go.

The song’s sound, on the other hand, is gentle and warm, with a beautiful, soothing melody.

It’s a heartbreak ballad you’ll want to sing while imagining the soft, tender voice of the vocalist, ikura.

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