A collection of timeless ballads sung by idols—songs that deeply touch the heart

≠ME≠ME

≠ME (Not Equal Me) / ≠ME - from 5th ANNIVERSARY PREMIUM CONCERT – [LIVE Ver. full]

A dazzling, fast-paced number that sounds like the very essence of youthful brilliance.

It’s a song by ≠ME, the idol group produced by Rino Sashihara, included on their debut mini-album “Super Express Bound for ≠ME,” released in April 2021.

The album captured many hearts, reaching No.

1 on the Oricon Weekly Rankings.

As the group’s first original song, its appeal lies in the way it races from the ache of unrequited love to the resolve to shout “I love you.” The refreshing melody and straightforward lyrics strike a chord, filling you with positive energy just by listening.

Give it a spin when you want to take a new step forward or break out of your shell.

Bashful Short≠ME

≠ME (Not Equal Me) / 5th Single “Hanikami Short” [MV full]

An exceptionally cute winter song packed with the sparkle of the season and the flutter of first love.

It’s a track by the idol group ≠ME, produced by Rino Sashihara, released as their 5th single in November 2022.

First, we should note the earnest story of changing one’s hairstyle for someone they like.

The lyrics capture the bashfulness of that makeover moment and the heart-pounding anticipation of waiting for their reaction.

It also drew major attention that Nanaka Tomita, who serves as center, actually chops her long hair into a short cut in the music video.

Try playing it as BGM on your way to a winter date, or when you want the courage to change.

The brilliance of this song will give you a gentle push forward.

Summer Chocolate≠ME

≠ME (Not Equal Me) / 4th Single c/w 'Summer Chocolate' [MV full]

If you’re looking for an irresistibly sweet number packed with the thrills of summer, this is the one.

Sung by the duo of Hitomi Suzuki and Saya Tanizaki, this unit song has won fervent support from fans.

The lyrics portray a love that melts like chocolate, and the onomatopoeia-filled phrases are sure to set your heart racing just by listening.

It’s a coupling track included on Type B of the single “Su, Suki Janai!” released in August 2022.

The title track also drew attention as the theme song for the TV anime “The Maid I Recently Hired Is Mysterious.” This song is also featured on the 2024 album “Springtime In You,” making it an indispensable track for the group.

It’s perfect for when you want to feel cute or make that special someone turn their head.

Immerse yourself in the duo’s adorable voices!

Last chance, last dance≠ME

≠ME (Not Equal Me) / 1st Album Lead Track 'Last Chance, Last Dance' [MV full]

It’s a heart-wrenching song where the brilliance of youth coexists with a touch of sadness.

Produced by Rino Sashihara for the idol group ≠ME, it was included as the lead track on their album “Springtime In You,” released in March 2024.

Nanaka Tomita serves as the center for this song.

The lyrics, written from the perspective of “me” gazing from afar at the school’s Madonna, evoke a scene of unrequited love that is beautiful yet tinged with pain.

Takahiro Furukawa’s exhilarating, classic pop sound is also striking.

You might even be moved to tears by the contrast between the bright melody and the heartrending lyrics.

The album, which includes this track, also reached No.

1 on the Oricon charts.

Give it a listen when you want to sink into a sentimental mood in the springtime.

I want to be your face.kyururin tte shite mite

“I Want to Be Your Face” MV / Kyururin tte Shitemite

“I Want to Be Your Face” is an 8th single released in February 2025 by the idol group Kyururintteshitemite, who champion “Kawaii Realism.” Centered on social media, its modern theme of wanting a “face you aspire to” has struck a chord with many.

Written and composed by hitmaker Sho Yamamoto, the track features a lively, band-like sound.

It’s also included on the EP “Kyururin Wonderland,” released in April 2025, showcasing the group’s momentum.

The lyrics, which portray a girl’s heart swaying between ideals and reality, are heart-fluttering, and the irresistible depiction of chasing one’s admiration makes this a catchy pop song.

It’s bound to resonate with anyone working on self-improvement or hoping to be like their oshi.

Give this down-to-earth, charm-packed number a listen!

Tell me your phone number!≒JOY

≒JOY (Nearly Equal Joy) / 4th single title track “Tell Me Your Phone Number!” [MV full]

≒JOY, an idol group that captures the fluttering thrill of first love as you think about your crush.

This track, the title song of their 4th single releasing in February 2026, is a number that sings of the impulse of unrequited love.

With classic J-POP sounds that sparkle with romantic feelings and a chorus that suddenly turns up the heat of love, it’s a song even those who don’t usually listen to idol music can get hooked on thanks to its catchy melody.

Kanoa Amano serves as center—listen to the lyrics that wish to bravely close the distance with the one she likes.

In the music video released in January 2026, the dance performed under a shower of numbers leaves a strong impression.

If there’s someone you’re interested in, listening to this will give you the courage to take a step forward.

Because I like you.AKB48

[MV full] Because I Love You / AKB48 [Official]

This piece could be called a hidden gem by AKB48, a song about pure love that asks for nothing in return.

Riding on a driving, fast-paced band sound, it delivers a heartfelt message in classic idol-pop fashion.

Originally included as a B-side to the single “RIVER,” released in October 2009, it gained such passionate support from fans that it proudly took 2nd place at the following year’s Request Hour.

It was also used as the theme for the Wii game Tōmajiden commercials, so some listeners may already find it familiar.

The bright vocals from the Under Girls, including Aki Takajo, give listeners a powerful push forward.

If you listen when you’re feeling down or when you want to cheer someone on with all your might, you’re sure to get a dose of positive energy.