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

MessageiLiFE!

[LIVE Footage] Message / iLiFE! [9-Member New Formation]

iLiFE! is an idol group that channels the raw energy of their live shows straight into pop.

Their latest track is a rock tune that rides on a fast, exhilarating band sound to deliver a sincere message to listeners.

The lyrics, charged with a strong will to move forward into the future together, are sure to set hearts ablaze.

Included on the album “Idol Life Extra Pack,” released in April 2025, this song can be taken as a declaration of the group’s fresh start.

While it hasn’t been tied up with any dramas or other media, it stands out as an important track that marks the beginning of a new chapter.

Give it a listen when you need courage to take on a challenge or want to lift your spirits—their energetic vocals will give you the push you need.

First Love Cinderella≒JOY

≒JOY (Nearly Equal Joy) / 2nd Single Title Track 'First Love Cinderella' [MV full]

If you’re looking for a classic idol song brimming with the flutter of a faint first love, this might be just the one.

With lyrics penned by Rino Sashihara, this sparkling number portrays the down-to-earth feelings of a protagonist in love.

Released as the second single in October 2024, it also made waves by topping major charts like Oricon.

With Reon Esumi at center, the words sung over an exhilarating sound are sure to turn every listener into the heroine of the story.

It’s perfect not only for hyping up karaoke sessions with friends, but also as a powerful ally when you need the courage to take a step forward in love.

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.

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.

≒JOY≒JOY

≒JOY (Nearly Equal Joy) / 1st Song “≒JOY” [MV full]

An exhilarating, upbeat tune that feels like a clear blue sky opens up before you the moment you listen.

With lyrics penned by Rino Sashihara, the song conveys a straightforward message of determination to chase one’s dreams and the bonds between friends.

Released digitally in July 2022 as the group’s first original song, it was also included on their debut mini-album “Kitto, Zettai, Zettai,” released in January 2024.

Hailed as a standout record, it debuted at No.

1 on the Oricon Weekly Album Chart, reflecting its passionate support.

The music video, set in a school where the members search for yellow fragments, is filled with the sparkle of youth and is a must-see.

It’s a highly recommended track that will naturally bring smiles—perfect for when you’re feeling down or want to brighten the mood at karaoke!

B-b-but.≒JOY

≒JOY (Nearly Equal Joy) / 2nd Single c/w 'Dadada, Datte.' [MV full]

From the peppy rhythm of the intro, this song instantly sweeps you into a bittersweet world of youth.

Included as the B-side of the single “First Love Cinderella,” released in October 2024, it became a hot topic as the group’s first unit track.

Sung by Ayumi Ichihara, Mizuki Oshida, and Yuka Murayama, this love song uses onomatopoeia-like phrases to express the fluster of a love that leaves you lost for words, making your heart skip a beat every time you listen.

The down-to-earth lyrics penned by Rino Sashihara are deeply relatable, and the music video’s must-see storyline cheers on its clumsy protagonist.

This work is an anthem that gives you courage when you feel timid about love.

Why not listen to it when you want to confess your feelings to someone you like, or when you need a little push forward?

≠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.