aiko’s classic and popular songs
Here’s an introduction to the music of aiko, the female singer-songwriter known for popular songs like “Kabutomushi” and “Boyfriend.” Active since 1998, her charm lies in the coexistence of sweet, cute lyrics—much like her appearance—and a striking coolness that contrasts with them.
She often employs jazz-inspired chord progressions, and this sophisticated musical sense is another key to her popularity.
There’s also a story that her father was a friend of Hiroshi Madoka, and when she said as a child that she wanted to become a singer, Madoka told her, “Don’t do it—you’ll have a hard time.” Please enjoy her wonderful songs with this playlist.
Aiko’s classic and popular songs (1–10)
ByeeeNEW!aiko
This is a song that openly pours out the emptiness and resentment of a love that has ended, while conveying a resolve to move forward.
The powerful vocals, as if cutting off lingering attachment, resonate deeply in the chest.
Created by the singer-songwriter aiko, this track opens her album How Can I Possibly Tell You, released in March 2021.
Though it had no media tie-ins, its weighty arrangement featuring strings leaves a strong impression of its world, and it holds an important place in live performances.
It doesn’t romanticize breakups; instead, it accepts the emotions that have built up in the heart, making it perfect for when you want to put some distance between yourself and the past.
If you’re determined to let go of feelings for your ex and step into a new life, be sure to give this song a listen.
milkaiko
In front of the mirror, I’m practicing to be a cute, well-put-together girl so I can be my best self around the person I love.
Isn’t that something everyone’s experienced in the rituals of romance? This is a piece that sings about that feeling of love we’ve all likely felt at least once—when he appears in your dreams and you can’t get him out of your head.
bagaiko
This is the 15th single, a song that captures the cute feelings of a girl in love.
In the music video, aiko sings playfully, expressing how being in love makes every day fun, yet she’s impatient to become mutual, wanting to know how the other person feels.
It’s a very aiko-like work.
Andromedaaiko
This is one of aiko’s most overwhelmingly popular songs.
Even if you’ve never heard the original, many people may have heard it at karaoke.
It’s such a classic that just looking at the lyrics brings the melody to mind and makes you want to hum along.
“Even if you were standing at the intersection, I might not be able to find you anymore.”
nape (of the neck)aiko
Their 14th single in total on a major label.
A regretful love song addressed to a former lover.
The relaxed piano accompaniment and the distinctive melody in the chorus leave a strong impression.
The closing lyric, “Not once have I ever forgotten you—your slightly grown-out nape, your awkward smile,” really hits home.
fireworksaiko
It’s one of aiko’s biggest hits and can be considered a signature song.
It was also the song she performed for her first appearance on Music Station.
Thanks to its melody and popularity, it’s widely known across generations and was even adopted as the departure melody at Temma Station on the Osaka Loop Line.
honeyaiko
It’s a sweet love song.
It captures the feelings of a very cute girl for the boy she loves.
The “bitter, bitter honey” that appears in the chorus represents the sweet time the two share—a time so sweet that even honey tastes bitter—making it an adorably charming love song.