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

Dreaming 15-year-oldSumairēji

S/mileage 'Yume Miru 15-sai' (Music Video)

S/mileage’s major-label debut captures the summer romances of 15-year-old girls, filled with gentle vocals and bittersweet feelings.

Eurobeat-style synths blend with a kayōkyoku-inspired melody, tenderly expressing the fluttery first loves unique to adolescence.

Depicting a girl’s heart swaying between idealized scenes—summer festivals, fireworks, seaside dates—and reality, the song was produced by Hello! Project’s renowned producer Tsunku♂.

Upon its May 2010 release, it reached No.

5 on the Oricon charts and went on to win the Best New Artist Award at the 52nd Japan Record Awards.

It’s a perfect track for those who want to relive the sweet-and-sour memories of youth or empathize with a down-to-earth teenage girl’s feelings of love.

The meaning of goodbyeNogizaka 46

Nogizaka46 'The Meaning of Goodbye'

This song portrays the hope that awaits beyond a heartrending farewell, carried by warm piano melodies.

Released by Nogizaka46 in November 2016, it is a memorable track in which Nanami Hashimoto served as center for the first time.

It was performed at the 67th NHK Kohaku Uta Gassen, moving the hearts of many.

It is a gentle, comforting piece that quietly supports those who have experienced parting from someone dear, or who are about to take a new step forward.

STAR LIGHTHikaru GENJI

Hikaru Genji - STAR LIGHT (TV ver.) Full High Quality Audio

A gem of a debut that paints youth in pale blue.

Written and composed by Ryo Asuka of Chage & Aska, this song refreshingly celebrates the boundless potential and pure dreams of young people.

It weaves poetic imagery—like soap bubbles and the color of the wind—to portray the incomplete emotions of adolescence and the fleeting feelings of first love.

Released in August 1987 as Hikaru Genji’s major-label debut, it entered the Oricon charts at No.

1, won Best Single at the 2nd Japan Gold Disc Awards, and was included on the album “Hikaru Genji.” Alongside their innovative roller-skate performance, it remains etched in many hearts as a youth anthem brimming with dreams and hope.

Recommended for anyone who wants to cherish pure feelings or relive the sparkle of their teenage years.

Oh, early summer rainSakurazaka46

Sakurazaka46 'Samidare yo'

A poignant love song by Sakurazaka46 that portrays feelings of love through the motif of early-summer rain.

Released in April 2022 as their fourth single, it received a tremendous response, topping the Oricon Weekly Singles Chart.

Like rain that never stops, the swelling emotions are expressed through delicate vocals and choreography, gently embracing unspoken love and the struggles it brings.

It is a warm track that waits for the arrival of spring, resonating with those in the midst of unrequited love or unable to convey their feelings.

SCHOOL DAYSshiritsu ebisu chūgaku

[MV] Shiritsu Ebisu Chugaku “School Days”

Formed in 2009 under the concept of “Forever Junior High Students,” Shiritsu Ebisu Chugaku is known for a musical style that incorporates a wide range of genres, including J-pop, rock, and electro.

After their major debut in May 2012, they held a solo concert at Saitama Super Arena in December of the same year, setting the record for the fastest post-debut headlining show by a Japanese artist.

Their album Chuunin topped the Oricon Weekly Chart, steadily proving their capabilities.

Another draw is the contributions from top-tier creators like Hyadain and Ichiro Yamaguchi of Sakanaction.

Nicknamed the “King of School Arts Festivals,” their distinctive live performances feature production that mimics school life.

They’re a recommended group for those who want to enjoy musical diversity or are seeking fresh, unconventional entertainment.

believe feat. Ema Sakurai (Shiritsu Ebisu Chugaku)Gekkan Guuzou

“believe feat. Ema Sakurai (Shiritsu Ebisu Chugaku)” Music Video – Monthly Idol, September 2024 issue

Released in September 2024 as the sixth installment of the Monthly Idol Project, this song features vocals by Ema Sakurai of Shiritsu Ebisu Chugaku.

Its gentle melody and powerful singing leave a strong impression, and the lyrics—centered on the struggles of youth and self-affirmation—resonate deeply.

It portrays the determination to keep moving forward by believing in oneself even amid failure and despair, making it a track that feels like a push on the listener’s back.

The visuals by illustrator Karin Saegusa, evoking a sense of youth, are also captivating.

It’s especially recommended for times when you’re lacking confidence or want to take a new step forward.

Spring SwallowHey! Say! JUMP

Hey! Say! JUMP – Spring Swallow [Official Music Video]

A heartwarming song that expresses the feelings of a refreshing new beginning through music has been delivered by Hey! Say! JUMP.

Created by members of sumika, the piece warmly encourages those striving in new environments, using the image of swallows returning in spring.

Also chosen as the opening theme for the TV anime “Love All Play,” the song is included as one of the tracks on the triple A-side single released in May 2022.

It’s a song for anyone feeling anxious about a new setting, and for those who want to cherish their bonds with friends.