Nogizaka46’s God-Tier Songs: Grabbing Fans’ Hearts! A Collection of Hits and Hidden Gems

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.

Route 246Nogizaka 46

Nogizaka46 “Route 246”

This is a digital-only single composed by Tetsuya Komuro, famed as a master hitmaker, created in collaboration with lyricist Yasushi Akimoto—their first team-up in about ten years.

Released in July 2020, the song was also performed at that year’s NHK Kōhaku Uta Gassen.

Its sparkling synths that evoke classic TK sound and its exhilarating, fast-paced beat really stick in your ears.

The lyrics inspire the courage to follow the path you believe in without being swayed by others’ judgments, giving a push to anyone pursuing a dream or goal.

With a striking contrast between its cool melody and supple vocals, it’s a track that lifts your spirits and moves you forward.

Flat-out lap timeNogizaka 46

Flat-out lap time

Nogizaka46’s number is perfect for spring, when new chapters begin and the season is filled with a mix of hope and anxiety.

You can almost see the youthful scene of sprinting full-throttle toward the goal, with a rush of words cascading forward.

Included on the album “My respect,” released in January 2026, this track is the fourth important song for the next-generation 6th gen members.

Once you read center Hinano Okoshi’s blog about the nerves and resolve she felt taking on such a big role, it’ll resonate even more.

Its fresh, powerful message carried by an 8-beat band sound gives a firm push to anyone who feels like stopping.

When you need the courage to take a new step, be sure to give this song a listen.

There’s someone I want to talk to right now.Nogizaka 46

Nogizaka46 'There's Someone I Want to Talk to Now' Short Ver.

It’s the theme song for the film The Anthem of the Heart.

It was Nogizaka46’s first song to feature double centers, with Mai Shiraishi and Nanase Nishino in the center positions.

It’s also the first song where Mai Fukagawa and Misa Eto were selected as front members.

The seesaw choreography is a highlight.

Barefoot SummerNogizaka 46

Nogizaka46 “Hadashi de Summer”

For the summer song of 2016, Asuka Saito—considered a next-generation hope for Nogizaka46—was selected as center for the first time.

The music video was filmed in Okinawa in June to capture a summery feel, and the members talked about various behind-the-scenes stories on their own TV Tokyo network variety show.

Watching the MV after seeing that makes it feel a bit different and even more interesting.

How to Forget SadnessNogizaka 46

Nogizaka46 “How to Forget Sadness” - Short Ver.

This is the theme song for Nogizaka46’s first documentary film, “How to Overcome the Sadness: Documentary of Nogizaka46.” It’s a close-up documentary crafted into a movie that follows the behind-the-scenes of concerts and auditions.

The lyrics, which speak of moving forward despite uncertainty, capture their growth itself.

It’s not a song that necessarily gets the crowd going, but it’s one that somehow resonates deeply in your heart.

BiryaniNogizaka 46

Nogizaka46 “Biryani” Music Video

Nogizaka46 is a beloved national idol group created under the production of Yasushi Akimoto.

Their 40th single, released on November 26, 2025, is an uptempo dance track that portrays the freshness of first love.

This release marks the first time 6th-gen members Shizuki Setoguchi and Moeka Yada have been selected as centers, and the lyrics—comparing the rising feelings of love to the aroma of layered spices—leave a strong impression.

The music video, directed by Yichuan Wang, depicts a mysterious, almost magical world, making it a visual treat as well.

It’s recommended for those who want to savor the sweet-and-sour thrill of unrequited love or those looking for the courage to take a step forward.

With its upbeat, spicy sound that feels so good, it’s a pop tune that lifts your spirits the moment you press play.