The debut song of a beloved national idol from days gone by. Relive that emotion once more.
“Aitakatta,” “Real Face,” “Glass no Shōnen” — the encounters with the songs that became the origins of these national idols are etched in our hearts as vivid memories.
AKB48, KAT-TUN, KinKi Kids, and many other groups have delivered unforgettable moments.
The expressions on their faces as they took their first steps toward the big dream of a major debut still haven’t lost their shine.
From chart-topping hits to long-selling, nostalgic tracks,
we present a selection of debut songs brimming with the boundless potential of these idols.
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The debut song of a beloved national idol. Relive that excitement once more (31–40)
MasqueradeShonentai
It was released in 1985 as Shonentai’s debut single.
Despite being their first song, it immediately topped the Oricon chart, and it became a massive hit, winning the Best New Artist Award at the 28th Japan Record Awards and the Excellent Broadcast Music Newcomer Award at the 17th Japan Kayō Awards.
It stands as Shonentai’s best-selling and most successful song.
The season of bare feetMatsuda Seiko
It was released in 1980 as Seiko Matsuda’s debut single.
The song was used in a Shiseido commercial for Ekubo Facial Wash.
Although Matsuda auditioned for the commercial, she failed because she couldn’t make dimples, so she ended up only singing the commercial song instead.
It reached No.
12 on the Oricon Weekly Singles Chart.
I can’t live without you.Berryz Kobo
It was released in 2004 as Berryz Kobo’s debut single.
The lyrics, composition, and production were handled by Tsunku, with Risako Sugaya and Momoko Tsugunaga serving as the centers.
The music video was filmed at Saitama Super Arena, and it reached No.
18 on the Oricon Weekly Singles Chart.
arDevil ANTHEM.
It’s an energetic track that makes you feel as if you’re accelerating toward your dreams.
As Devil ANTHEM.’s major-label debut, this song stands out with a fresh sound that fuses the intensity of EDM with the familiarity of pop.
The phrase “to the dream I saw that day because I wanted to believe” conveys a strong will toward a hope-filled future.
Released in May 2023, the track marked a proud moment under Victor Entertainment.
Perfect for those taking on new challenges or chasing dreams with friends—this is a brilliant song that marks a new step for Devil ANTHEM.
Extinct Black-Haired GirlNMB48
It was released in 2011 as NMB48’s debut single.
Miyuki Watanabe served as the center for the song, and it was used as the ending theme for NMB48’s flagship variety show Docking 48 on Kansai TV.
It reached number one on the Oricon Weekly Singles Chart, and it has become customary for the performing members to wear their hair black when showcasing this song.
Debut songs by beloved national idols. Relive that excitement once more (41–50)
O strong oneSKE48
It was released in 2009 as SKE48’s debut single.
Jurina Matsui served as the center for the song, and it was used as the second ending theme for the TV Tokyo anime Shin Mazinger: Impact! Z Chapter.
It debuted at number 5 on the Oricon Weekly Singles Chart.
Brilliant DreamNakagawa Shoko
It was released in 2006 as Shoko Nakagawa’s debut single.
Her beloved cat, Mamitas, took part in the jacket artwork and music video shoot.
A debut event titled “Shokotan☆Festival” was held, and it reached No.
29 on the Oricon chart.