[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 (41–50)

YOU… feat. Izumi Nakasone (HY)Miliyah Kato

Miliyah Kato “YOU… feat. Izumi Nakasone (HY)”

YOU... feat. Izumi Nakasone (HY), Miliyah Kato

Speaking of collaborations between powerhouse female singers, we can’t forget this song by Miliyah Kato and Izumi Nakasone of HY.

Based on real unrequited-love stories sent in by radio listeners, the two artists co-created this gem of a ballad.

Released in September 2014 as their 30th single, it was also included on the milestone 10th-anniversary album “MUSE.” The frustration of not being able to put your feelings into words, and the emotional wavering as you move toward confessing your love, come through poignantly in the harmony between Kato’s delicate vocals and Nakasone’s warm voice.

Chosen as the theme song for a radio drama, this track just might gently give you the push you need if you’re struggling with a one-sided love.

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Songs We Want Women to Sing! Popular Ballads Performed by Female Artists (51–60)

wedgeHanako Oku

Kusabi (Wedge) by Hanako Oku

Kusabi Okuhanako

A piano ballad by Hanako Oku that quietly embraces the inescapable pain of parting.

Cherished since her indie days and lovingly passed down in her performances, it’s a song that has been adored by fans for many years.

Two shadows lit by streetlights after the last train has gone, a final kiss shared even as they know they’ll never meet again.

Lyrics that portray such helpless scenes are sure to resonate deeply with anyone who has experienced heartbreak.

The song gained popularity through word of mouth and was finally released as a single in July 2015, marking the 10th anniversary of her debut.

It was later included on the album “Prism.” On nights when you’re sinking into sorrow with no way out, why not surrender yourself to this piece and let the tears flow?

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StoryAI

AI – Story

StoryAI

The 12th single by singer-songwriter AI, who is widely supported by listeners across generations for her bright, friendly personality and exceptionally powerful, expressive vocals that transcend the typical Japanese style.

Featured in various tie-ins like games and films, it’s a track whose embracing lyrics and powerhouse voice feel wonderfully comforting.

If a woman sings it at karaoke, it might just ease worries and stress.

It’s a song that blends gentleness with strength—and if you can sing it all the way through, you’ll likely earn serious respect.

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tobacco / cigarette(s)Koresawa

Koresawa “Tobacco” [Music Video]

Tabako Koresawa

Koresawa is a singer-songwriter who continually releases songs that resonate with women.

Among her works, the song “Tabako” (“Cigarette”) is especially popular.

This track, which portrays a breakup with someone she loved deeply, is heartbreaking in every line and sure to bring tears.

The depiction of her, who hates cigarettes, smoking while thinking about her beloved ex tightens your chest.

She regrets what she could have done, and though there’s no going back, memories keep flooding her mind.

It’s a breakup song that will make women cry as they sing along.

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beetle (specifically, a rhinoceros beetle)aiko

aiko - 'Kabutomushi' music video

Beetle aiko

Released in 1999 as aiko’s fourth major single.

aiko herself thought, “The rhinoceros beetle is considered the strongest among insects, but if you peel off just one layer of its shell, it becomes soft and fragile—maybe it’s actually a lonely creature.” In this song, she likens herself to a rhinoceros beetle, singing about putting on a brave face to protect herself while falling in love.

It has long been beloved as a women’s karaoke staple and is a classic that resonates with feelings of love in any era.

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petalHanako Oku

Hanako Oku / Hanabira (Film “He Won’t Kill, She Won’t Die” Ver.) [Music Video]

Hanabira Oku Hanako

This is the theme song used as the main theme for the film “Killing Me and the One Who Won’t Die.” Oku Hanako’s clear, translucent vocals are truly striking! In particular, the beginning features only piano accompaniment, which puts her remarkable talent fully on display.

From the second verse, strings, drums, and a weeping guitar join in, shifting the atmosphere to something more moving.

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LONELYMiliyah Kato feat. LANA

Miliyah Kato feat. LANA “LONELY”

LONELY Miliyah Kato feat. LANA

This is a track by Miliyah Kato—known for her realistic, highly relatable lyrics—teaming up with new-generation icon LANA.

The theme of the song is “loneliness.” It powerfully conveys the honest feeling of “I’m not okay” hidden behind a brave front, and the earnest wish to simply have someone by your side.

Over a mellow beat crafted by KM, the emotional vocals of Miliyah Kato blend with LANA’s cool flow, stirring the heart.

Released in July 2024, the song also drew attention as a collaboration between a Heisei-era gal and a Reiwa-era gal.

On nights when you feel alone, this song, which seems to speak on your behalf, will surely stay gently by your side.

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