AKB48’s classic and hit songs: Relive your youth! A comprehensive introduction to their popular tracks

Ponytail and ScrunchieAKB48

[MV full] Ponytail to Shushu / AKB48 [Official]

AKB48’s 16th single, released in May 2010.

Minami Takahashi and Atsuko Maeda served as the centers.

It was the group’s first music video shot overseas, and a photobook featuring the shoot generated buzz.

It was also the first AKB48 song to be included in Taiko no Tatsujin.

When singing it at karaoke, pay attention to the overlapping harmony parts.

Turn of chanceAKB48

[MV full] The Order of Chance / AKB48 [Official]

The members selected were decided solely by rock-paper-scissors! This is AKB48’s 19th single, which became a huge topic as the “Rock-Paper-Scissors Selection.” The one who triumphed and won the center position was Mayumi Uchida.

It also drew attention because members who had never been selected for a single up to this release made it into the lineup.

By the way, you can check out the rock-paper-scissors tournament in the music video!

The wind is blowing.AKB48

[MV full] The Wind Is Blowing (DANCE! DANCE! DANCE! ver.) / AKB48 [Official]

AKB48’s 23rd single, with Atsuko Maeda and Yuko Oshima serving as double centers.

Released in October 2011, this song was performed to support recovery from the Great East Japan Earthquake that occurred the same year.

A hometown transformed beyond recognition, and yet the wind still blows toward the future… The encouraging lyrics and powerful vocals leave a strong impression.

The unique costumes, based on earth tones, are also a highlight.

I wanted to see you.AKB48

HD AKB48 Aitakatta

A song released in 2006 as AKB48’s major-label debut.

This work catapulted AKB48 to fame.

From this song onward, second-generation members participated, including Yuko Oshima and Sayaka Akimoto, who would go on to become pillars of the group.

It’s an impressive track with an up-tempo beat and easy-to-follow choreography.

Cherry Blossom BookmarkAKB48

[MV full] Sakura no Shiori / AKB48 [Official]

AKB48’s 15th single, released in February 2010.

It also drew attention as the ending theme for the drama “Majisuka Gakuen.” Since it’s become a staple as a graduation song and a choral piece, it’s supported even by generations who weren’t around when it was released.

The way the members sing in a chorus-like style also evokes the feeling of graduation, doesn’t it?

Everyday, KachushaAKB48

[MV full] Everyday, Kachusha / AKB48 [Official]

AKB48’s 21st single, released in May 2011.

It’s a cute song featuring members in sleeveless school uniforms.

With this release, 9th-generation member Yui Yokoyama—who later became the general manager—was selected for the first time.

Incidentally, a portion of the proceeds from this song was reportedly allocated to support recovery efforts for the Great East Japan Earthquake.

GIVE ME FIVE!AKB48

[MV full] GIVE ME FIVE! / AKB48 [Official]

AKB48’s 25th single.

The title “GIVE ME FIVE!” means “Banzai!” in Japanese, and the song itself is a cheer song.

The selected members practiced instruments specifically for this track, and their efforts are on full display in the music video.

It’s a song that will energize you just by listening.