AKB48 Graduation Songs, Entrance Ceremony Songs, and Popular Songs Ranking [2026]

An Unexpected ConfessionAKB488rank/position

Unexpected Confession Music Video / AKB48 65th Single [Official]

A refreshing coming-of-age story that begins with a sudden confession.

Set for release in April 2025 as AKB48’s first single of their 20th anniversary year, the track is crafted by Yasushi Akimoto, Masahiro Mizoguchi, and Yuichi Nonaka.

With a lively, springlike melody, the lyrics depict the feelings of a shy protagonist in love who, though flustered by an unexpected turn of events, takes a brave step forward.

The choreography features the adorable “Vegetable Pulling Pose,” expressing the joy of being chosen and confessed to from among many—a music video that’s sure to make you smile just by watching the dance.

It’s a perfect song for anyone starting a new chapter this spring.

Color contacts winkAKB489rank/position

Color Contacts Wink Music Video / AKB48 63rd Single [Official]

This dazzling number was created as the culmination of Yuki Kashiwagi’s idol career, with Kashiwagi—who has long led the group—serving as center for the first time on her own.

You can practically picture the bittersweet scene of unrequited love, where feelings are conveyed not through words, but through glances and gestures.

Released as a single in March 2024, it was composed by Yoshimasa Inoue, the hitmaker behind numerous chart-toppers.

The melody, blending nostalgia and freshness, is sure to set listeners’ hearts dancing.

In the music video, a world surrounded by colorful flowers beautifully portrays the “life of an idol.” Perfect for the spring season, this work gently encourages those embarking on a new chapter.

It’s an ideal track when you want to immerse yourself in a classic idol song.

Late-blooming cherry blossomsAKB4810rank/position

Nagorizakura

It’s a song that makes you want to pause for a moment in the season where meetings and farewells intersect.

Sung by AKB48, it captivates with a nostalgic atmosphere that evokes familiar images of school routes and classroom scenes.

Released in February 2026 as their 67th single, it also marks the opening of a new chapter in the group’s 21st year.

Momoka Ito from the 19th generation serves as center for the first time, and her fresh yet somehow wistful vocals resonate deeply.

The single also includes a track originating from the TV special “Yasushi Akimoto vs AI Yasushi Akimoto,” giving it plenty of buzz.

Depicting the wavering emotions of young people who look back on the past while striving to face forward, it’s perfect for those starting a new life this spring or for moments when you want to immerse yourself in memories of your youth.

I wanted to see you.AKB4811rank/position

HD AKB48 Aitakatta

A massively popular song by AKB48, now a national idol group known by everyone.

As a signature track of AKB48, it’s hugely beloved.

It’s so cute it blows away the sadness of goodbyes—let’s all dance together and get hyped!

Feathers of the UniformAKB4812rank/position

[MV full] The Wings of the Uniform / AKB48 [Official]

You can almost picture that bittersweet scene of a secret crush: watching you run across the schoolyard from the classroom window.

This song, which sings of the hope and heartache of sprouting invisible wings on your uniformed back and taking flight toward the future, will make listeners’ hearts skip a beat.

Included on the single “Kibouteki Refrain Type D,” released in November 2014, this track is a special one for Team 8—their very first music video was made for it! When graduation approaches and you feel anxious about becoming an adult, doesn’t this song gently nudge you forward with a reassuring “It’s going to be okay”?

I only look forward.AKB4813rank/position

[MV full] We Only Look Forward / AKB48 [Official]

A graduation song by AKB48 released in 2014.

It was also the last track Yuko Oshima took part in before her graduation! The song features an upbeat, bright rock sound.

Its straightforward, forward-looking lyrics—written with a slightly mischievous tone—blow away the sadness of graduation and the anxiety of entering a new environment, giving you the courage to move ahead with strength.

It’s a highly recommended track where you can enjoy empowering lyrics wrapped in a very bright and catchy vibe.

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Hane Keisuke

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I can only face forwardAKB4814rank/position

AKB48 / We Only Look Forward

It was released as AKB48’s 35th major single.

It also drew attention as Yuko Oshima’s last song before her graduation.

Although it’s a graduation song, the lyrics make it a very cool track that’s perfect for a fresh start after entering school.

It encourages you to face forward and keep moving ahead.