Indie hit song rankings
Major tracks are great, but as music fans, I think many of us also have that urge to discover hidden gems or cool bands that haven’t gotten much attention yet.
Sometimes we grow attached to those under-the-radar aspects, and it makes us want to support them even more as fans.
In this article, we’ll research popular artists in the indie scene who haven’t made a major-label debut and introduce them in a ranking format.
They’re not necessarily obscure songs, but even seasoned music lovers might find tracks they haven’t heard yet.
Be sure to check it out at least once!
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Indie popular songs ranking (41–50)
START DAYyumemiru adoresensu50rank/position
Yume Miru Adolescence, known as “YumeAdo,” has continued to grow despite numerous member changes.
Former members Kyoka and Akari Yamada are also thriving as gravure idols and models.
With songs provided by many artists—including KEYTALK and Yabai T-Shirts Yasan—the group has steadily expanded its support not only among idol fans but also among idol-song enthusiasts.
Their track “START DAY” is a forward-looking youth anthem that seems to celebrate YumeAdo’s new lineup and a fresh departure of their own.
It’s a sweet-and-sour song that reminds you how love can make people stronger.
Indie Popular Song Rankings (51–60)
Our Scenariomugen no shinario51rank/position
Nagoya’s hidden idol gem that the world still hasn’t discovered yet: “Mugen no Scenario.” With Minori Majō’s vocals, Mio Kashirida’s personality, and Eruha Kaname’s looks, there are tons of reasons to become a fan! True to their tagline as an “addictively cute rock unit,” the rock spirit of their song “Bokura no Scenario” has a coolness that goes beyond the idol realm.
The lyrics, depicting a girl who wants to be strong while living through a one-sided-love scenario, are also superb.
With their activities now resumed, there’s even more reason to keep an eye on them.
Brave SoulOsaka☆Shunkashuto52rank/position
As their name suggests, Osaka☆Shunkashuto—nicknamed “Shukashun”—is an idol group that started out in Kansai.
Armed with powerful performances, they quickly rose to national prominence.
Any idol event featuring Shukashun is always packed.
Their song “Brave Soul” is like a collection of all the best things about Shukashun—truly a track “made just for Shukashun.” The rock-infused sound grabs your heart in an instant.
It’s a highly recommended song that gives hope to everyone who hears it, urging them to “hold on to courage!”
Poi Poi Pacmasshirona kyanbasu53rank/position
A pure white canvas blazing down the royal road of idols—aka “Shirocan.” Everyone’s so cute that you’ll probably find yourself thinking, “Who should I stan…?” Their song ‘Poi Poi Pa’ is a delightfully idol-like, fun track with the message, “Let’s forget all the bad stuff!” I can just picture the crowd going wild at shows, copying the choreography together.
Their first album, ‘Kyoso,’ released in 2021, is excellent as well.
The album title—rooted in the group concept of “Let’s draw our dreams together”—is a clever touch! If you get the chance, definitely check it out!
Caramel SweetKamiyado54rank/position
All the fans know this: the group’s name combines the “Jin” from Jingumae and the “Hara” from Harajuku to make “Kamyado.” When they greet the audience, they clap their hands twice and bow as if paying respects at a shrine—so cute! From idol-like pop songs to sophisticated, urban tracks, Kamyado’s strength is their wide musical range.
Their song “Caramel Sweet” is a cool number about adult romance.
It likens love to the delicate balance between caramel’s sweetness and faint bitterness—a blend that strangely makes you want to listen over and over.
Even if you don’t know Kamyado yet, give them a try!
Mileage Love SummerNiji no Conquistador55rank/position
Niji no Conquistador is an indoor, pop-oriented idol group formed in 2014.
Building on an idol-pop foundation, they’ve gained popularity with songs that span a wide range of genres, from electropop to anime tunes.
Since their major-label debut in 2015, they’ve excelled at refreshing, upbeat summer tracks and have released them consistently.
They’ve also had numerous tie-ins with anime and games, including the ending theme for the anime “Action Heroine Cheer Fruits” and a collaboration song with “Love Live! School Idol Festival ALL STARS.” Their live performances are notable for production that emphasizes a strong sense of unity with fans.
They’re a group we highly recommend for anyone who wants to enjoy the sparkle of youth and high-energy performances.
poplarKaika56rank/position
It’s written as “開歌” and read as “Kaika.” If you found yourself thinking, “What does it mean for a song to ‘open’?” then you’re already under Kaika’s spell! Kaika’s strength lies in their refined vocals—any first-time listener is sure to be taken aback.
This song, Poplar, is one track included on the mini-album Hanauta.
The lyrics, with a vibe like “Everything around people is something special precisely because it’s not special,” are sure to resonate with every listener.
Above all, their singing is truly soothing.
They often perform a cappella at live shows, too.
If you haven’t heard them yet, you definitely should!