[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 (121–130)

Gentle WordsKumi Koda

Koda Kumi - “Gentle Words” ~ 20th Year Special Full Ver. ~

Gentle Words by Kumi Koda

When you think of Kumi Koda, you usually picture a cool, strong female artist, but in this song, it’s her beauty that really stands out.

The track adds a moody vibe to the firm, tongue-twisting beat that’s a hallmark of her music, giving it a mature feel, and her sultry vocals shine even more because of it.

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The BeginningAyaka

[High Quality] The Beginning Time (Full)

Ayaka, At the Beginning

A song included on Ayaka’s third original album, “The beginning,” released on February 1, 2012.

Conveying the message “No matter how hard things get, accept everything and keep living toward tomorrow,” this track is a powerful ballad that begins with a beautiful piano intro.

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Last sceneIkimonogakari

Ikimono-gakari “Last Scene” Music Video

Last Scene Ikimono-gakari

“Your Lie in April” is a coming-of-age story that depicts the protagonist overcoming his trauma after meeting a certain girl.

The song “Last Scene” was chosen as the movie’s theme.

It portrays the pain, sadness, and strength of living in a world without someone important.

When I listen to this song after a breakup, I end up crying from how much I relate, and in the end it makes me feel like moving forward—just like the last part of the song.

Ikimono-gakari is widely known across generations, so it’s a great pick for karaoke too!

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heartAimyon

Aimyon – Heart [OFFICIAL MUSIC VIDEO]

Heart Aimyon

A singer-songwriter who enjoys immense popularity among younger generations for her relatable lyrics and catchy, pop-friendly melodies, Aimyon.

“Heart” is her 12th single, written specifically for the TBS TV drama “Only Just Married” (Kon’in Todoke ni Han o Oshita Dake Desu ga).

Although a heart shape has a rounded top and a pointed tip—an odd form—Aimyon says she feels it might actually symbolize an uneven, imperfect relationship.

This love ballad gently and softly sings about that kind of misshapen heart.

With its relaxed melody, it’s easy to sing at karaoke, too!

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[Songs We Want Women to Sing!] Popular Ballads Sung by Female Artists (131–140)

DearestAyumi Hamasaki

Ayumi Hamasaki / Dearest (Short Ver.)

Dearest Ayumi Hamasaki

Ayumi Hamasaki, a singer-songwriter who sparked a social phenomenon to the point of being called the “charisma of high school girls,” dominated the J-pop scene in the Heisei era.

Her 24th single, “Dearest,” used as the ending theme for the TV anime Inuyasha, became a massive hit and won both the Japan Record Award and the Japan Cable Radio Award.

Its lyrics, which evoke a sense of true love, are ones many people likely overlay with their own experiences or ideals.

With its beautiful melody, it’s an enduring masterpiece ballad sure to stand out at karaoke as well.

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I’m proudTomomi Kahala

Tomomi Kahala LOVE BRACE

I'm Proud by Tomomi Kahala

A ballad by Tomomi Kahala produced by Tetsuya Komuro.

Her clear, high-toned voice resonates beautifully throughout this track.

Despite its grand, expansive feel, it gives a very soothing and calming impression.

Many of you may already know it, but if you haven’t heard it yet, please give it a listen.

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butterfly effectEmi Noda

Emi Noda – butterfly effect (Official Music Video) [Promise: The Truth in the 16th Year – Theme Song]

Emi Noda - Butterfly Effect

It’s a highly message-driven song that feels as if it stays close to the listener’s heart and offers words of encouragement.

The butterfly-themed lyrics are striking, evoking courage and hope in the face of hardship.

Emi Noda’s clear, pure vocals further enhance the song’s world.

Released on May 2, 2024, the track was also chosen as a TV drama’s theme song.

It’s a piece that fully showcases Noda’s talent as a singer-songwriter.

When you find yourself at a crossroads in life, this is a powerful song that feels like it gives you a gentle push forward—be sure to give it a listen.

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