“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 emotion once more (1–10)
Silent majorityKeyakizaka46
It was released in 2016 as Keyakizaka46’s debut single.
Yurina Hirate served as the center for the song, which was used as the commercial theme for the fashion rental app “Mechakari.” The track conveys a distinctly strong will unlike previous idol songs, and it reached No.
1 on the Oricon Weekly Singles Chart.
I wanted to see you.AKB48
It was released in 2006 as AKB48’s major-label debut single.
Atsuko Maeda served as the center for the song, and it was tied in as the theme for TBS’s “Rank Oukoku” and the ending theme for MBS TV’s “Verita,” among others.
It reached a peak position of No.
12 on the Oricon Weekly Singles Chart and went on to become a long-selling hit, remaining on the chart for 60 weeks.
Gifted.BE:FIRST
Opening with a bold declaration brimming with pride and confidence, this debut single triumphantly sings of the boundless potential within everyone.
Its stately, march-like intro and resonant low-end make a striking impression, perfectly harmonizing with lyrics crafted by SKY-HI to powerfully express the importance of honing one’s talents and gratitude toward those who support that journey.
Since its release in November 2021, the song debuted at No.
1 on the Billboard JAPAN Hot 100 and topped 40 music charts both domestically and internationally.
As a signature track for BE:FIRST, it continues to capture the hearts of countless listeners.
It’s a must-listen for anyone unafraid of challenges and committed to believing in limitless possibilities.
Spinning CurtainNogizaka 46
It was released in 2012 as Nogizaka46’s debut single.
Rina Ikoma served as the center for the song, which was used in a TV commercial for Meiji Handmade Chocolate.
It reached No.
2 on the Oricon Weekly Singles Chart and is a song that reflects Nogizaka46’s cute and pure image.
InfinityJO1
A striking track featuring a powerful beat that fuses EDM and trap elements.
It carries a passionate message about pushing past your limits to keep striving for your dreams.
As JO1’s memorable debut release, it reached No.
1 on the Oricon Daily and Weekly Singles Charts right after its March 2020 release.
With an astonishing first-week sales figure of over 320,000 copies, they became the seventh artist in history to surpass 300,000 copies with a debut single.
The song also secured multiple TV tie-ins, including serving as the ending theme for TV Asahi’s “Sonna Koto Kangaeta Koto Nakatta Quiz! Toriniku tte Nan no Niku!?” An energetic anthem that gently pushes people forward toward their dreams, it resonates as an uplifting support song.
Here we go! Phantom Thief GirlMomoiro Kurōbā Zetto
A conceptual work themed around phantom thieves, it unfolds a cute story about stealing fans’ hearts.
It’s a major-label debut packed with all the charms of Momoiro Clover Z.
Produced by Kenichi Maeyamada, the piece perfectly marries a world inspired by the animated film Lupin III: The Castle of Cagliostro with a bold musical structure that modulates from A minor to E-flat minor.
After its release in May 2010, it was featured as the opening theme for TBS’s Rank Kingdom, drawing significant attention.
The choreography includes the “Ebizori Jump” devised by Kanako Momota, which has become a highlight of their live performances.
It’s the perfect track for music fans seeking a high-energy idol song.
Is being cute not enough?CUTIE STREET
CUTIE STREET, a meteoric newcomer to the 2024 idol scene, drops their eagerly awaited debut.
It’s a pop song that questions the essence of “cute,” sure to make listeners’ hearts flutter.
Riding an up-tempo groove, their bold, full-throttle take on cuteness is delightful—and you can feel their fearless drive to charge ahead.
After a digital release in September 2024, the CD followed in November.
Buoyed by TikTok buzz, it’s been making waves on viral charts and with its music video.
Perfect for anyone hunting for the cutest track among the current hits.
Don’t miss this pop gem packed with everything that makes CUTIE STREET so charming.