An idol-sung youth anthem: a roundup of songs celebrating sparkling, radiant days

The world’s number one idolChou Tokimeki♡Sendenbu

Cho Tokimeki♡Sendenbu / “The World’s Number One Idol” Music Video

It’s an ultra-positive cheer song! It’s a track by the idol group Cho Tokimeki♡Sendenbu and the first song on their double A-side single released in April 2025.

With its uptempo arrangement and uplifting message, it gives you energy just by listening.

Don’t miss the music video, where the members burst into vibrant dance performances in colorful outfits.

It’s perfect for anyone who wants to cherish their individuality—the desire to shine will soar!

17 minutesNogizaka 46

Nogizaka46 “17 Minutes”

A song by the 5th generation members included on the 31st single “Koko ni wa Nai Mono,” released in December 2022.

It’s a sweet-and-sour youth pop tune that sings about the happiness of riding the same bus as the person you like for “just 17 minutes.” The contrast between the sparkling sound and the fresh vocals, together with the bittersweet story of a protagonist in love with someone whose name they don’t even know, makes your heart skip a beat.

The “clock dance” showcased in the music video and the staging where stalled time is set in motion by gears filled with their dreams perfectly embody these girls who carry the group’s future.

If you listen during everyday moments—on your way to school, for example—the world might just start to shine.

Why do we run?Nogizaka 46

Nogizaka46 'Why Do We Run?' MUSIC VIDEO

A rush of youthful pop with strikingly cool, emotional word choices.

Featured on the 39th single “Same numbers,” released in July 2025, this track is performed by Nogizaka46’s 6th generation.

Even as it repeats fundamental questions, it ultimately takes off with the attitude that “there’s no meaning anyway.” The lyrics vividly capture that unstoppable impulse unique to youth, powerfully shaking the listener’s heart.

Watching the members sprint across the field feels like a coming-of-age film come to life.

It’s a song that gives you an extra push when you’re going all out toward your goal.

The limits of languageHinatazaka46

Hinatazaka46 “Limits of Words” Music Video

This is a track included as a coupling on the single “Onegai Bach!” released in September 2025.

Hina Kawata, who was about to graduate, served as the center.

The song contemplates the vastness of the universe while expressing the limits of putting precious feelings into words and celebrates the bonds of the heart that transcend language.

Its acoustic sound is warm and wonderful.

It’s a message song you’ll want to dedicate to someone setting off on a new journey.

Everyday, KachushaAKB48

[MV full] Everyday, Kachusha / AKB48 [Official]

If you want to instantly liven up a karaoke session and get into a summer mood, how about picking the song that AKB48 turned into a massive hit in 2011? It’s a quintessential idol tune with a pleasant melody and straightforward lyrics that evoke a sunlit seaside.

The song depicts a bittersweet crush—being drawn to the innocent moment of taking off a headband and wishing to spend time together again next year.

Released in May 2011 as their 21st single, it also became familiar through its tie-in with Asahi Soft Drinks’ “WONDA.” One of the great things about AKB48’s songs is how they energize any party when sung.

Why not try this easy-to-sing, refreshing, summer-memory companion of a number?