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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 whose titles start with “I.” Great songs that begin with “I” (481–490)

rage of an era; a huge craze (that takes the world by storm)Kafū × Hoshimachi Suisei

[Suite 2] Kaf × Hoshimachi Suisei #143 “A Flash in the Pan” [Original MV]
rage of an era; a huge craze (that takes the world by storm)Kafū × Hoshimachi Suisei

This is a collaborative track by KAF and Hoshimachi Suisei, released in November 2024.

Set to a catchy melody, the lyrics—centered on the theme of virtual singers—leave a strong impression.

The positive message urging us to “reach out to the world” is encouraging.

It’s a song that hints at new possibilities in music.

It might be perfect when you need a boost of energy for tomorrow.

Ten Thousand Light-Years of LoveSaijō Hideki

Hideki Saijo – Love Ten Thousand Light-Years
Ten Thousand Light-Years of LoveSaijō Hideki

This song sings of a grand love unfolding on a cosmic scale.

Released in February 1985, it was Hideki Saijo’s 50th single and was also chosen as the theme song for the opening ceremony of the International Exposition, Tsukuba ’85.

Its futuristic sound, driven by synthesizers, and its evocative phrases—like “white nights” and the “fourth dimension”—leave a strong impression.

Comparing the distance to a loved one to ten thousand light-years, it expresses a love so strong it remains unchanged even across such vast separation.

In step with the sci-fi boom of the 1980s, it brought a fresh breeze to the music scene of the time.

A recommended track for anyone who wants to experience a romance depicted on an epic scale.

Party night in the bath at homeChōnōryoku Senshi Dorian

Psychic warrior Dorian: “A party night in my home bath.”
Party night in the bath at homeChōnōryoku Senshi Dorian

A humor-filled bath-time song that’s sure to make you smile! Created by the psychic warrior Durian, it delivers a poppy, catchy take on everyday relaxation.

Included on the album “Five,” released in August 2021, it was also selected as the ending theme for TBS’s “Prebat!!” that same year.

It’s a track that feels like the refreshing sensation of stepping out of the bath, turned into music.

Work up a sweat at karaoke, then head home for a delightful bath time!

Inarimachi Love Songtatsumi yūto

For Yuto Tatsumi, the coupling track “Inaricho Koiuta” from his second single “Otoko no Junjo” is a classic, heartwarming enka themed around “Inaricho,” which lies between the Ueno and Asakusa areas, just as the title suggests.

It has the feel of quintessential enka, so those accustomed to singing enka should handle it with ease.

Even beginners will likely find it approachable, as signature enka techniques like kobushi and vibrato aren’t overly emphasized.

The pitch range is on the lower side, making it a welcome choice for those who struggle with high notes.

Conversely, if low notes are difficult for you, try to focus on clearly enunciating the lyrics as you sing.

Celebration BoatKadowaki Rikuo

Rikuo Kadowaki 'Iwai-bune' (Official Audio)
Celebration BoatKadowaki Rikuo

This song captivates with lyrics that celebrate a bright new beginning and a vibrant, festive sound.

It’s filled with determination to overcome rough seas and hope for the future, making it a powerful push forward for anyone embarking on a fresh start.

Since its release in September 1982, it has remained a beloved classic.

It achieved the remarkable milestone of surpassing one million copies sold within five years of its release, and it was re-released in 1984.

Perform it at weddings or anniversary celebrations, and it will surely heighten the atmosphere of joy.

Sing it together, and it will become an even more wonderful memory.

Carried by Rikuo Kadowaki’s powerful vocals, let’s set sail toward a happy future.

Ikebukuro at NightAoe Mina

Mina Aoe – Ikebukuro no Yoru (Night in Ikebukuro)
Ikebukuro at NightAoe Mina

Mina Aoe, the great female singer who forged the concept of “blues” within enka.

Among the female vocalists of her time, she stood out with her overwhelmingly sultry, husky voice, and she produced many masterpieces infused with sensuality and melancholy.

Of all her songs, the one I especially recommend is Ikebukuro no Yoru (Night in Ikebukuro).

In this piece, you can glimpse blues elements within enka, and it carries an immense, hidden pathos.

The kobushi (ornamental vibrato) itself is not very difficult, and the melodic rises and falls are gentle, so it’s a song where you can likely aim for a high score.

Live.NEWS

NEWS – “Live” [Official Music Video]
Live.NEWS

NEWS’s song resonates as a rousing anthem that powerfully questions the meaning of life.

Chosen as the theme for a drama starring Shigeaki Kato, it was released in September 2018 as a work commemorating the 15th anniversary of NEWS’s formation.

With lyrics that sing of the courage to face life’s hardships and the importance of bonds with friends, it gently gives listeners a push forward.

Sung over a relaxed tempo, the words form a heartwarming number that empowers you to keep looking ahead and live on, no matter how tough the circumstances.