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

Nogizaka46, formed under the production of Yasushi Akimoto just like AKB48.

In this article, we’ve gathered their “god-tier” songs—tracks that have earned them popularity as one of the so-called “Sakamichi Groups,” known for high-quality music and visuals that blend purity with strength.

Since their 2012 debut, Nogizaka46 has released a wide range of songs— from sweet, bittersweet love tunes brimming with youthful energy to slightly more mature numbers—despite lineup changes over the years.

If you want to discover the appeal of Nogizaka, be sure to use this playlist as your guide.

Nogizaka46’s God-Tier Songs: Grabbing Fans’ Hearts! Hit Tracks & Hidden Gems (21–30)

trigger; impetus; the start; what prompted itNogizaka 46

A song included on the second album, Sorezore no Isu, released in 2016.

Along with the characteristically beautiful Nogizaka46 melody, the down-to-earth, introspective lyrics really resonate.

It also drew attention when Kazutoshi Sakurai of Mr.Children liked it and covered it.

Even if you’ve never heard it, please give it at least one listen—it’s a masterpiece that will go down in J-pop history.

BarretteNogizaka 46

Nogizaka46 'Baretta' Short Ver.
BarretteNogizaka 46

This is a song in which second-generation ace Miona Hori was dramatically chosen as center during her trainee days.

Its charm lies in the contrast between the cute lyrics and the sultry choreography, as well as the intense music video featuring guns.

The MV also features Toru Tezuka, who served as the members’ coach in the drama “Hatsumori Bemars.”

[Nogizaka46's Divine Songs] Grabbing Fans' Hearts! A Collection of Hits and Hidden Gems (31–40)

a typical romanceNogizaka 46

A song included as the first track on the fourth album, “Until Now Becomes a Memory.” For Nogizaka46, it’s a rare song title that puts the words love and romance up front.

Its slightly cool message—that ordinary romances are all pretty much the same—reflects the sharp, stylish side of Nogizaka46.

PopipappapāNogizaka 46

Nogizaka46 'Popipappapa' Short Ver.
PopipappapāNogizaka 46

It’s a very peculiar song in which sounds from the “pa” consonant series make up most of the lyrics.

The title comes from how saying “Nogizaka” using only the “pa” sounds ends up sounding like “Popipapa.” The members’ lips as they sing the “pa” sounds are very sexy.

The stylish choreography is also memorable, and the song was used in a Samantha Thavasa commercial.

Summer Free & EasyNogizaka 46

Nogizaka46 'Natsu no Free & Easy' Short Ver.
Summer Free & EasyNogizaka 46

A refreshing song that symbolizes the freedom and openness of summer.

Riding on the exhilarating sound of electric guitars, it sings about feeling liberated under the sun and taking a bold stance on love.

In the music video themed around summer in the city, the members are shown enjoying everyday shopping and meals in Shibuya and Harajuku, which adds a sense of familiarity.

Released in July 2014, this was the group’s first single without a tie-in, yet it secured their eighth consecutive No.

1 on the Oricon Weekly CD Singles chart, selling over 420,000 copies in its first week.

It’s a track that sends courage and a positive message to everyone seeking the freedom and openness of summer.

What is kindness?Nogizaka 46

[Unofficial PV] What Kindness Is / Nogizaka46
What is kindness?Nogizaka 46

It’s a set of lyrics that seriously contemplates what kindness is, a masterpiece that could be called Yasushi Akimoto at his very best.

Nanami Hashimoto serves as the center, and the song is packed with her charm.

I’m sure it will move your heart.

You don’t have to put on a brave face until dawn.Nogizaka 46

Nogizaka46 “You Don’t Have to Pretend to Be Strong Until Dawn”
You don’t have to put on a brave face until dawn.Nogizaka 46

Sakura Endo from the 4th generation served as center.

Nogizaka46, which always brings a sense of freshness for each era, released this as their 24th single.

It’s a sure-fire crowd-pleaser at live shows where the chorus invites a “Hey!” call-and-response.

With themes of darkness and light, it’s one of those songs that feels firmly in the orthodox Nogizaka46 lineage.

The violin intro is cool, too.