![BEGIN's Popular Song Rankings [2026]](https://i.ytimg.com/vi/E2LLhc7JJsY/sddefault.jpg)
BEGIN's Popular Song Rankings [2026]
BEGIN is a band from Ishigaki Island beloved by people of all ages for their acoustic sound and the friendly smiles of its three members.
From island songs resonating with the sanshin to bluesy numbers, their appeal lies in how their music shifts through many expressions.
Here are some of their most popular tracks, presented in a ranking.
BEGIN's Popular Songs Ranking [2026] (1–10)
Islanders’ TreasureBEGIN1rank/position
BEGIN is a band whose warm sound evokes the breeze of Okinawa and has been loved across generations.
This signature track of theirs is a moving number that asks about “what truly matters,” the kind of thing textbooks and TV don’t teach.
The well-known story goes that the lyrics were woven from words written by local junior high school students on Ishigaki Island.
Released as a single in 2002, it was written as the image song for NHK Okinawa’s “30th Anniversary of Okinawa’s Reversion to the Mainland.” It is also known as a core track on the classic album “Begin no Shimauta ~Omoto Takeo 2~.” Give it a listen in those moments when, amid the rush of daily work, you suddenly think of your hometown or old friends.
Its gentle yet powerful vocals are sure to give a quiet push to men in their 40s.
Orion Beer, Okinawa’s prideBEGIN2rank/position
BEGIN is a band whose charm lies in songs that blend acoustic blues with J-pop.
They are known for hits like “Nada Sou Sou,” released in 2000, and “Shimanchu nu Takara,” released in 2002.
One of their hidden gems is “Ojii Jiman no Orion Beer,” released in 2003.
Its bouncy rhythm feels great, and the irresistibly bright, beautiful lyrics are perfect for Eisa! If everyone dances while listening to this song, it’s sure to lift your spirits.
I miss youBEGIN3rank/position
It’s an extremely famous ballad as the debut single by BEGIN, a band from Ishigaki Island in Okinawa.
Carried by a melody tinged with the scent of the blues, Higa Eisō’s tender yet aching vocals resonate deeply.
The lyrics portray, with painfully real detail, the lingering feelings and overflowing regrets for a lost lover.
Even knowing there’s no going back, he can’t help but search for her traces—this broken-hearted song captures a man’s longing that truly hits home.
Released as a single in March 1990, it was also used in a Nissan commercial and as the theme song for the TV drama “Shin Konjiki Yasha: Hyakunen no Koi.” Celebrated on the show “Ika-ten,” this classic is a perfect pick for a quiet night, sipping a drink alone while reminiscing about past love.
OathBEGIN4rank/position
With its beautiful piano melody and powerful vocals, this uplifting anthem fuels the resolve to face any hardship.
Even when you feel discouraged by a horizon that seems to recede no matter how far you walk, it conveys in straightforward words the importance of never giving up and continuing toward tomorrow.
Released in August 2004 as a single by BEGIN, the song was used as the ending theme for the summer tradition “Netto Koshien.” If you’re hitting walls on the path to your goal and feel your spirit wavering, this is the song you need to hear.
Listen, and you’ll find yourself thinking, “I’ll give it one more try,” ready to look ahead and take a strong step forward.
Tears Flowing EndlesslyBEGIN5rank/position
With lyrics by Ryoko Moriyama and composed by BEGIN, this song has now become a piece sung across Japan with thoughts of Okinawa.
Its familiar melody and lyrics about ordinary human emotions—such as sorrow and joy—and precious smiles have encouraged many people.
Rimi Natsukawa’s cover was also a major hit, making it a classic that represents Japan.
National Route 508BEGIN6rank/position
Their love for Okinawa is tremendous—they’re a band that has shared Okinawan music and the brilliance of its culture across Japan.
And it was exclusively in Okinawa that they released this track, “National Route 508.” It makes heavy use of the Okinawan dialect; the songs are sung in words that may sound unfamiliar to most, yet are likely nostalgic to them, offering a captivating sense of Okinawa’s profound allure.
Keep smilingBEGIN7rank/position
BEGIN’s fame rose sharply after they became the second Grand King on “Miyake Yuji’s Ikasu Band Tengoku.” Their activities and songs—carried as if with the people and nature of Okinawa on their backs—have long continued to move listeners’ hearts.
The lyrics, which use “aho” (fool) as a term of affection—saying that someone who can keep smiling even in tough times is a lovable fool—are both fun and profound.
Instead of crying, why not smile? The song sweeps listeners into a whirlpool of smiles.
It’s a highly recommended track that even evokes a laid-back sense of “island time.”
The scenery I saw at the breakwaterBEGIN8rank/position
BEGIN is an acoustic band known for their warm, calming vocals.
Formed on Ishigaki Island in Okinawa in 1988, they made their debut in 1990.
While they’re famous for hits like “Nada Sōsō” and “Shimanchu nu Takara,” their 1998 release “Bōhatei de Mita Keshiki” is another hidden gem.
The gentle tones of the acoustic guitar feel like a secret remedy that soothes a tired body and heart.
Be sure to pay attention to the slightly nostalgic lyrics as well.
It’s a recommended number for those moments when you want to quietly linger in the sadness of parting.
Blue SnowBEGIN9rank/position
A wistful, blues-tinged Christmas song that blends into the city nightscape.
Released in December 1990 as BEGIN’s second single, it became an early classic, peaking at No.
25 on the Oricon charts.
The track is also included on their second album, GLIDER.
From the lyrics, you can glimpse the solitary figure of the protagonist, standing alone on a glittering street corner with unspoken feelings that never reach their destination.
The melody, which sings of a love that vanishes as fleetingly as snow, brings a quiet poignancy to the listener’s heart.
Perhaps many will relate to those aching emotions that well up unseen precisely because the season is so festive.
Birthday SongBEGIN10rank/position
This number sung by BEGIN is perfect for when you want to wholeheartedly celebrate a loved one’s special day.
Words of gratitude for the irreplaceable person before you and warm wishes for healthy, peaceful days are woven into a gentle acoustic melody.
Released as a single in May 1997, it was included the following month on the album “Ongaku Brigade II,” and is considered a classic.
It’s especially recommended to listen to together with parents or guardians on a child’s milestone birthday or at important family moments.
Please enjoy this piece—one that helps you rediscover everyday happiness—together during your cherished time.