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Songs whose titles start with 'I'. Masterpieces that begin with 'I'.

I’m going to introduce songs with titles that start with “i” (the Japanese syllable pronounced ee)!

When you think of “i,” words like ichigo (strawberry), iruka (dolphin), and iro (color) come to mind, so it’s not a particularly tricky letter even in shiritori, right?

But what about when it comes to song titles?

Actually, there are plenty of songs whose titles start with “i”!

In this article, I’ve gathered a variety of Japanese songs—both old and new—whose titles begin with “i.”

You might even find some you listen to regularly.

Feel free to use this as a reference when playing song-title shiritori and the like!

Songs that start with “I.” Great tracks beginning with “I” (11–20)

A devoted girl.NEW!Yuika

A single-minded girl. / 'Yuika' [MV]
A devoted girl.NEW!Yuika

A love song that captures the frustrating yet earnest feeling of loving someone who won’t turn around to see you.

Singer-songwriter Yuika, who has been resonating especially with Gen Z.

This work officially turns a song she created during her high school years into a recorded track, released as a single in April 2025.

Despite its poppy, upbeat sound, the lyrics packed with heartfelt emotion really pierce the heart.

Her vocals, which seem to bottle up the pure heat of single-minded love, feel perfect for the Valentine’s season.

Whether you’re prepping chocolates or listening right before mustering the courage to confess, that straightforward power is sure to give you a strong push forward.

Someday, these tearsNEW!Little Glee Monster

“Someday These Tears Will” – Little Glee Monster
Someday, these tearsNEW!Little Glee Monster

Little Glee Monster is known for their emotionally resonant vocals.

The “moving song you’ll want to hear in March” we’re featuring is a classic written as the support song for the 96th All Japan High School Soccer Tournament.

Its message—that the tears and setbacks you face while chasing your dreams will eventually become badges of honor that support you—truly hits home.

The lyrics, co-written by Junji Ishiwatari and the members, speak to how even frustration can become fuel for the future, and are sure to stir your heart.

Released in December 2017 and included on the album “juice,” this track is recommended not only for students dedicated to their club activities, but also for anyone stepping onto a new stage such as entrance exams or job hunting.

As an anthem that stays close to your anxieties and loneliness and gives you the courage to take your next step, it’s perfect for the spring season—be sure to give it a listen.

IbukiNEW!yama

yama “Ibuki” MV (Kanro “Pure Gummy” commercial song)
IbukiNEW!yama

Singer yama, who captivates many fans with a style of performing without revealing their face and with an emotional, translucent voice.

Released digitally in April 2023 and later included as the B-side of the single “slash,” this song was written specifically for Kanro’s “Pure Gummy” commercial.

The lyrics, which affirm the excitement of everyday life and the arrival of spring, gently swell our anticipation for the new season.

The light, exhilarating rhythm—linked with the commercial featuring Marika Ito—naturally lifts your spirits just by listening.

It’s a breezy, comfortable pop tune we hope you’ll sing at karaoke in March, perfect for kicking off a new chapter with a positive mindset.

Color · White BlendNEW!Nagayama Miho

Buoyed by the warmth of spring, this is a bright pop tune that makes you want to break into a spontaneous step.

Written and composed by Mariya Takeuchi, it was released as a single in February 1986 and became her first hit to surpass 200,000 copies sold.

It aired in living rooms across Japan as Shiseido’s spring campaign song, and many were surely captivated by Miho Nakayama shining from the other side of the TV screen.

Nobuyuki Shimizu’s urban, sophisticated arrangement vividly brings out the excitement of the changing seasons.

Takeuchi herself also recorded a self-cover on her album “REQUEST,” letting you enjoy the distinct charms of each version.

It’s the perfect song for those moments when you want to feel your heart flutter with the anticipation of love, or to play with the windows down on a sunny day’s drive!

even ifNEW!Hirai Ken

Ken Hirai 'even if' MUSIC VIDEO
even ifNEW!Hirai Ken

A singer-songwriter who leads Japan’s R&B scene, Ken Hirai continues to captivate many fans with his strikingly chiseled features and sweet, soulful voice.

Do you know the famous ballad he has cherished and kept singing as the theme song for his concept live series, “Ken’s Bar,” which he considers his life’s work? Its lyrics, like a solitary monologue at a bar counter while tilting a glass, confess an unbreakable longing for someone who loves another—immersing you in a heartache that feels like watching a love film.

Originally a phantom track performed only at live shows, it was released in December 2000 as a limited-time single in response to fervent fan requests.

Some listeners may have felt their hearts tighten at its portrayal of a forbidden love.

With its mellow atmosphere, it’s the perfect song to revisit on a night when you want to reflect on past romances.

InfinityYuuri

This is Yuri’s third major digital single, written as the ending theme for the TV anime “SK∞ SK8 the Infinity.” With lyrics themed around everlasting friendship and bonds, and a warm yet powerful sound centered on acoustic guitar, it’s a truly captivating track.

Released digitally in January 2021 and later included on the long-awaited first album “Ichi,” the song brims with positive energy that gently pushes listeners forward.

Its liberating melody that bursts open toward the chorus is perfect for getting hyped at karaoke with dear friends.

The key to singing it well is to be mindful of the dynamic contrast: from the talk-like delivery in the verse to the strong, resonant vocals in the chorus.

Songs whose titles start with “I.” Masterpieces that begin with “I” (21–30)

IlluminationNEW!SEKAI NO OWARI

A song that paints the glittering scenery of winter with a unique sense of color.

Instead of bold hues like red or blue, it gently affirms the beauty of a lingering, blended gray—and that kindness really touches the heart.

Fukase’s warm vocals and the wintry, shimmering strings softly wrap around a chilled heart.

Released in October 2018, the track was created as the theme song for the TV Asahi drama “Legal V: Ex-Lawyer Shoko Takanashi,” and was later included on the album “Lip.” With lyrics that balance strength and tenderness, it’s perfect for times when you want to love someone just as they are.

An ideal song to sink into during the cold season while feeling someone’s warmth.