Female idols who debuted in the 2000s and dazzled the scene with their brilliant success.
Their debut songs—now almost legendary—are packed with the fresh charm that vividly colored the music scene of the time.
In this article, we’ve gathered the first singles from idols who made their debut in the 2000s.
Some groups are still active today as idols or artists, while others are now widely admired as actresses.
Whether you witnessed their debuts in real time or discovered them later, enjoy these gems where nostalgia and freshness coexist.
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A roundup of debut songs by female idols who debuted in the 2000s! (1–10)
I wanted to see you.AKB48
When you think of AKB48, many of you probably still think of this song first.
“Aitakatta” is AKB48’s memorable major-label debut single.
It enjoyed a long run on the charts, staying in for 60 weeks, and helped make the name AKB48 widely known.
The real meBuono!
Buono!’s debut single stands out with powerful guitar rock that goes beyond the bounds of “idol” music.
Released in October 2007, it was used as the ending theme for the anime Shugo Chara!.
It debuted at No.
5 on the Oricon Weekly Chart and remained ranked for 13 weeks—a true classic.
This track delivers a straightforward portrayal of the struggles and hopes of teens searching for their true selves, set to a fast-paced, exhilarating band sound.
When you’re ready to start something new, the trio’s strong vocals give you courage—an anthem-like number that cheers you on.
GOOD DAYSZONE
Although ZONE is strongly associated with being a girls’ band, they actually started their careers as a dance group.
This was their major-label debut single, released in February 2001.
The members reportedly felt some internal conflict as they launched into a new style called “bandol,” performing while holding instruments.
Yet this track turned out to be such a bright, hopeful rock tune that you’d never guess at that backstory.
Its positive message—that as long as you have your friends, you’ll be okay—gently gives listeners a reassuring push forward.
time after timeEarth
This is the debut single by EARTH, a talented dance and vocal group that debuted in 2000.
Trained in New York before their debut, the members deliver an exceptional vocal ability and beautiful harmonies that are hard to believe come from teenagers.
Released in February 2000, the song was used as an insert track for the drama “Virtual Girl.” Winning the New Artist Award at the 42nd Japan Record Awards with their debut work further attests to their high level of talent.
It’s a moving number featuring slightly grown-up vocals layered over a melody with an R&B flavor.
O strong oneSKE48
Formed as the first sister group of AKB48 and based in Sakae, Nagoya, SKE48.
This work is their debut single, released in August 2009—a powerful number that stands apart from cute idol songs and can be called an anthem for those who fight.
The lyrics depict a hero who, though wounded, overcomes loneliness and strives to carve out the future; it also feels like a declaration of resolve from the group as they set out to take on the scene.
The song was also used as the ending theme for the anime Shin Mazinger Shougeki! Z-Hen on television.
It’s a track that gives you a push forward—highly recommended for those who want to face challenges or need the courage to take a new step.
First Love DashWatari Rōka Hashiritai Nana
This is the debut single released in January 2009 by Watarirouka Hashiritai, a sub-unit of AKB48.
It conjures up a sweet-and-sour, slightly bittersweet scene of unrequited love, like chasing your crush down the hallway.
Even the frustration of a love that won’t go smoothly is transformed into something positive by the catchy melody and energetic rhythm—the boundless brightness is truly wonderful! This debut track was released as a double A-side single with “Aoi Mirai,” peaked at No.
10 on the Oricon chart, and was later included on the album “Rōka wa Hashiruna!”
I can’t live without you.Berryz Kobo
Berryz Kobo, a hugely popular idol group that even many celebrities publicly declared themselves fans of, debuted with the song “Anata Nashi de wa Ikite Yukenai” (“I Can’t Live Without You”).
Its song and choreography are so compelling that even people who aren’t into idols can’t help but think it’s cool.
The group went on hiatus in March 2015.
Surely many fans are hoping for their return.