Ikimonogakari Friendship Songs: Popular Song Ranking [2026]

Thank youikimonogakari1rank/position

Ikimonogakari 'Arigatou' Music Video

This is Ikimonogakari’s 18th single, written as the theme song for the NHK morning drama series Gegege no Nyobo.

Released in May 2010, it won an Excellence Award at the 52nd Japan Record Awards.

The lyrics, which tenderly portray the love nurtured in everyday life and gratitude toward those dear to us, resonate deeply.

The warmth conveyed by holding hands and the hope for a shared future are expressed through a gentle melody that warmly embraces listeners.

In the 2013 school year, it was included as a choral piece in high school music textbooks, and it has also become a popular staple for graduation ceremonies.

It may feel a bit embarrassing to put into words, but this song is perfect for conveying thanks to the teachers, friends, and family who have supported you.

Why not sing it to express your honest feelings along with your memories of junior high school life?

Promise in Madder Redikimonogakari2rank/position

Ikimonogakari 'Akane-iro no Yakusoku' Music Video

It’s the perfect song for looking back on memories with friends.

Released in October 2007, the track was created with weddings in mind, but its lyrics also resonate with friendship.

It reflects on the journey two people have walked together, weaving in memories of laughing, crying, and holding hands.

It was also featured in a commercial for au’s LISMO!, touching the hearts of many.

As you gaze up at a sky dyed a shade of madder red, the gentle melody that sings of the joy of meeting and feelings of gratitude is sure to remind you of the bond with a dear friend.

It would be great to make a video themed around friendship and bonds with friends to look back on those shared memories.

smileikimonogakari3rank/position

Ikimono-gakari “Egao” Music Video

This is a song by Ikimonogakari that sings a gentle wish for a dear friend to always keep smiling.

The grand, sweeping sound featuring strings conveys a moving atmosphere.

A notable feature is that the lyrics are composed entirely of different words with no repetition, which feels like an expression of overflowing thoughts and messages the singer wants to share with their friend.

While looking back on the memories they’ve built together, the song offers words of encouragement to live strongly, supporting each other along the way.

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YELLikimonogakari4rank/position

YELL – Ikimono-gakari (Full)

A powerful ally in tough times! Ikimono-gakari’s uplifting cheer song will turn your school festival into an unforgettable memory.

It’s a warm track that gently stays by your side through days swaying between anxiety and excitement about a shining future.

The lyrics overflow with the determination of working toward goals with friends, and the moving emotions of setting out on a new journey at graduation.

Even 13 years after its 2009 release, it’s still performed at many school events and was chosen as an NHK School Choir Contest (N-Con) required piece—a long-selling number.

Kiyoe’s clear, soaring vocals also cast light on a moment of youth.

It’s a classic that gives you the courage to take a step toward something new.

We’ve alwaysikimonogakari5rank/position

Ikimono-gakari “We Are Always” Music Video

A warm melody that gently wraps around the bond with a cherished friend seeps into the heart.

It’s a cheering song that gives you the courage to walk forward with your companions, while staying close to the fear of moving ahead.

Because we have friends who support one another, we can take a new step—this song conveys the preciousness of such friendship.

Released by Ikimono-gakari in January 2012 as the campaign CM song for U-CAN, the piece was also included on the album NEWTRAL and moved the hearts of many.

Its warm vocals and positive message will surely give a gentle push when you want to express gratitude to a dear friend or cheer on someone taking on a new challenge.

Whimsical Romanticikimonogakari6rank/position

Ikimonogakari “Kimagure Romantic” [“Ikimonogakari no Minasan, Konnitsua!! 2024 ~You! Me! Everyone! Let’s Sing SHOW!!~ Yokohama Nijumaru Performance”]

A happy tune by Ikimono-gakari that sings about the sweet-and-sour feelings of a girl who can’t be honest with the one she likes! Beneath her bold attitude, the protagonist is actually dying to see them, and that feeling comes through on an upbeat, bursting sound.

Released in December 2008, this track was used as the theme song for the drama “Celeb to Binbō Tarō” and is included on the classic album “My song Your song.” The cute choreography seen in the music video became a live-show staple, too! Around 2025, its fun spread to many people through social media.

When everyone copies the dance together, it creates a sense of unity in the venue and the excitement goes through the roof!

In the Blueikimonogakari7rank/position

Ikimonogakari “In the Blue” (Mitsuya Cider theme song) Music Video

A song by Ikimono-gakari with a refreshing tone as pleasant as a clear summer sky.

Written specifically as the theme for the Mitsuya Cider commercial, it was released in March 2024.

Its catchy melody that makes you want to hum along and lyrics that evoke fun times with friends and the shining memories of youth are especially striking.

It’s perfect for moments enjoyed with your crew—like summer drives or barbecues by the sea! Listening to this track will help you breeze through the hot summer.

Be sure to check out this song packed with everything that makes Ikimono-gakari so appealing!