Mariya Takeuchi

Mariya Takeuchi, a Keio University student and aspiring singer, self-released a single in 1978 which led to her breakthrough in the music industry. Despite not achieving a number one hit, her singles consistently charted in the Top 100 or Top 40, with "Mysterious Peach Pie" reaching number three. Following her marriage to musician Tatsuro Yamashita in 1981, Takeuchi briefly stepped away from music, returning in 1984 to immense success. Since then, she has released seven chart-topping studio albums and established herself as a sought-after songwriter in Japan's pop scene, penning hits for various top artists. After a hiatus post-Longtime Favorites in 2004, Takeuchi made a triumphant comeback with the number one albums Denim in 2007 and Expressions in 2008, solidifying her status as a music industry powerhouse.