BEGIN's Popular Song Rankings [2026]

Islanders’ TreasureBEGIN1rank/position

BEGIN / “Shimanchu nu Takara” 20th Anniversary MV

A classic song that represents Okinawa, widely known as the image song for NHK’s “30th Anniversary of Okinawa’s Reversion to the Mainland.” It’s popular across generations, but when a man in his 50s sings it at karaoke or in a snack bar, his life experience adds a persuasive depth that warms up the room.

Since the song itself has a gentle Okinawan feel, it’s better to sing softly, as if speaking to the listener, rather than belting it out.

The melody flows smoothly, so try not to break the phrases too much—take a good breath and sing through to the end of each line.

That will help bring out the right atmosphere.

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Kubota Mami

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Orion Beer, Okinawa’s prideBEGIN2rank/position

Eisa (Ojii’s Pride: Orion Beer) Shoryu Festival Drums

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.

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Yuuki

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I miss youBEGIN3rank/position

BEGIN / Longing for you

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

BEGIN / Oath

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

Tears Flowing Endlessly – Rimi Natsukawa (Full)

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.

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Murakami Shinpei

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National Route 508BEGIN6rank/position

National Route 508 full

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.

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Murakami Shinpei

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Keep smilingBEGIN7rank/position

BEGIN with Ahonastars / Just Keep Smiling

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.”