Popular Japanese songs among women in their 20s: a collection of masterpieces that are great to listen to and great to sing.

Heisei Dawn GALChiaki Mayumura

Chiaki Mayumura “Heisei Dawn GAL” MV (眉村ちあき – 平成黎明GAL)

Chiaki Mayumura is a female singer-songwriter who’s gained popularity for her distinctive musical style.

Her new track, Heisei Reimei GAL, is put together with a different feel from her previous work.

In particular, the phrase leading into the chorus features a rap-like delivery, showing the breadth of her musical range.

That said, it’s by no means a gimmick track; it’s ultimately a catchy, breezy J-pop song.

How about giving it a listen as springtime driving music?

Mirror, mirrorMaiko Fujita

Maiko Fujita “Mirror, Mirror” Music Video

Maiko Fujita captivates listeners with her clear, translucent voice.

As the lead single from her album “Color,” she released “Mirror, Mirror.” The phrase in the title is familiar from fairy tales, where it’s used like an incantation to question a magic mirror.

In the song, scenes reminiscent of those fairy tales are interwoven with the sorrow of a woman after a heartbreak.

You’ll hear many lines that evoke different fairy tales, so keep an ear out for those as you listen.

Time limitEmiko Suzuki

Emiko Suzuki / Time Limit [Official Music Video]

Singer Emiko Suzuki, whose father is musical theater actor Tomotaka Sugimoto, has been performing live with her family since childhood.

Her ninth digital-only single, “Time Limit,” released on June 23, 2023, kicks off with a hooky melody and a guitar riff that heighten anticipation right from the opening.

The lyrics, which evoke the image of leaving a dissatisfying partner and starting down a new path, may give those who struggle to make decisions the push they need to take that first step.

It’s an edgy number whose ensemble lingers in the ear, mirroring raw, straightforward emotions.

You know,Aimyon

Anone

Singer-songwriter Aimyon, known for songs that resonate across generations such as “Marigold” and “Naked Heart,” has enjoyed widespread popularity.

Her 15th single, “Ano ne,” was written as the theme song for the film Totto-chan: The Little Girl at the Window.

Listening to its heart-wrenchingly bittersweet lyrics, combined with gentle melodies and ensemble, will likely leave you feeling sentimental.

It’s an emotional pop tune with an atmosphere that closely mirrors the film’s world.

URLAmo SAKAGUCHI

Ami Sakaguchi “URL” Music Video / Ami Sakaguchi – URL

Singer-songwriter Anbo Sakaguchi, who aspired to be a musician in elementary school and even worked as a radio DJ in high school.

Her 6th single “URL,” chosen as the ending theme for the TV anime Horimiya -piece-, is delightful with its cute vocals and pop ensemble.

The lyrics tell the story of wanting to be able to go see the person you like right away, a feeling that resonates even more strongly thanks to the instantly imaginable phrase “URL,” especially for younger generations.

It’s an emotional number that brilliantly contrasts a timeless, universal longing for love with contemporary imagery.

Natsumatope＝LOVE

=LOVE (Equal Love) / 14th Single “Natsu Matopé” [MV full]

=LOVE is a 10-member girls’ group produced by former AKB48 member Rino Sashihara, born as a new kind of voice-actor idol trained in voice acting.

Their 14th single, “Natsu Matopie,” drew attention for its double-center lineup featuring Maika Sasaki and Iori Noguchi.

Showcasing cute vocals in a refreshing ensemble, the track perfectly evokes the scenes of summer.

With plenty of call-and-response moments, it’s an upbeat tune guaranteed to fire up live shows and karaoke alike.

ilyMaruri

Maruri - ily [Music Video]

Maruri, who made her solo and major-label debut in 2022, created the song “ily” under the production of singer-songwriter MINMI.

It’s a summery love song that candidly expresses the desire to be with the one you love.

It also seems perfect for creating a romantic atmosphere.

In addition, the rap part in the middle beautifully conveys the overflow of emotions.