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Debut one year after starting musical activities! Ranking of popular songs by imase

Singer-songwriter imase began his music career in November 2020 and made his major debut in December 2021.

His fifth digital-only single, “NIGHT DANCER,” gained attention overseas through social media and became a major talking point, surpassing 100 million streams on the Oricon Weekly Streaming Ranking in 2024.

His modern tracks featuring a distinctive, gentle singing voice have become especially popular among younger listeners.

This time, we’re introducing a ranking of imase’s most popular songs!

Debut one year after starting his music career! Ranking of imase’s popular songs (21–30)

pen pal correspondenceimase×Matsutōya Yumi22rank/position

[imase × Yumi Matsutoya] Correspondence (Music Video)
pen pal correspondenceimase×Matsutōya Yumi

How about a special duet that bridges generations? It’s a song by imase, a singer of the new generation, and the legend Yumi Matsutoya.

Created to celebrate the 60th anniversary of audio equipment maker BOSE, it was released in May 2025.

Crafted in a relay style like exchanging letters, the song captures listeners’ hearts with a romantic worldview that longs for someone far away.

The sophisticated, bossa nova-inspired sound is irresistible.

If you sing it at karaoke, tune in to each other’s voices and keep it tender.

Dried Flowerimase23rank/position

【imase】Dried Flower(MV)
Dried Flowerimase

When it comes to singer-songwriters who truly master falsetto, I think many people these days would picture imase.

Among imase’s tracks, the one I especially recommend is “Dried Flower.” This piece, arranged with a downbeat feel, is sung mostly in falsetto.

It’s practically a song that exists for the pleasure of listening to falsetto.

From a piercing, almost shrill falsetto to a soft, enveloping whispery falsetto, it lets you savor a wide range of head voice textures.

NIGHT DANCER (English Ver.)imase24rank/position

【imase】NIGHT DANCER English Ver.(MV)
NIGHT DANCER (English Ver.)imase

YouTube Premium is a subscription service loved by many music fans.

The song featured in its commercial, “Bundle your subscriptions with YouTube! imase,” is NIGHT DANCER (English Ver.).

It’s the English version of the song of the same name released by imase that became a huge hit.

The ultra-high-tone vocals and native-like English pronunciation are captivating.

If you’ve heard the Japanese version, be sure to give this one a listen too.

Heroineimase25rank/position

[imase] Heroine (Music Video)
Heroineimase

Hailing from Gifu Prefecture, imase quickly rose to prominence through TikTok.

His music has earned high acclaim both in Japan and overseas, with NIGHT DANCER achieving overwhelming popularity, including surpassing 100 million views on its music video.

His single Heroine was released on December 15, 2023, and also drew attention as the CM song for the global sushi chain Genki Sushi in Hong Kong.

The lyrics, which portray the beauty of embracing personal change, evoke both poignancy and hope in listeners.

In particular, the smile that brings back happy memories with a loved one and the resolve to overcome the unpredictable turns of romance are sure to resonate.

It’s recommended for those who, despite enjoying mutual love, still feel anxious at times.

Imase’s Heroine eases the anxieties of romance and reminds us of the importance of trusting each other.

Midnight Girlimase26rank/position

[imase] Midnight Girl (Music Video)
Midnight Girlimase

With its laid-back beat and faintly nostalgic melody, it feels like it melts into the stillness of the night.

Crafted by imase—an artist gaining attention at home and abroad after breaking out on TikTok—this track is a groovy number with a touch of R&B.

Its bittersweet, wistful worldview quietly reflecting on a past love really strikes a chord.

The gentle vocals further underline the sentimental mood.

Released in January 2024, it was chosen as the theme song for the drama “Chaser Game W: My Power-Harassing Boss Is My Ex-Girlfriend,” and was later included on his debut album, “Bonsai.” It’s a chill track that softly untangles the heart—perfect for nights when you want to drift into thought at the end of the day.

Utopiaimase27rank/position

The two, Hayato Sano and Mizuki Yamashita, are shown toasting with Hanayoi in a park as they introduce the drink’s appeal.

Yamashita says, “I’m not a heavy drinker, so I’m happy it’s 3% ABV,” while Sano talks about the future, saying, “Even as I get older, I want to keep enjoying drinks like this.” Their natural expressions and casual conversation are striking.

The BGM features “Utopia,” one of imase’s signature songs.

Reading the lyrics, which speak to the importance of loving the present, is sure to make the everyday feel a little more special.

LITimase28rank/position

【imase】LIT(MV)
LITimase

In GU’s commercial, a woman in a one-piece dress shows off her dance moves to upbeat music.

Fresh spring–summer dresses appear one after another, highlighting the lineup.

The danceable track playing in the background is “LIT” by imase—an original song written for the GU ad, featuring uplifting lyrics and a bright, uptempo sound.