A ranking of popular songs by Sakurazaka46, an idol group with a uniquely solitary presence

You reap what you sow.Sakurazaka468rank/position

Sakurazaka46 'Reap What You Sow'

The idol group Keyakizaka46, popular among teenage girls and boys, has been taking on more complex songs as Japan’s idol scene has been shifting toward a K-pop style.

Their track “Jigoujitoku” falls into that category, but it’s not as difficult as K-pop, so it should be manageable to sing.

The main point to watch out for is the irregular meter in the chorus.

It uses a somewhat unusual 6/8 time signature, so be sure to keep that in mind when singing.

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Ryo

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BANSakurazaka469rank/position

Sakurazaka46 “BAN”

The title track of Sakurazaka46’s 2nd single, with an unbelievably cool intro.

It was also used in Lawson’s Sakurazaka46 smartphone lottery campaign CM.

The driving energy built on acoustic guitar is irresistible.

The song’s world is constructed with the group’s hallmark strong messaging carried over from the Keyakizaka46 era and the most difficult choreography in their history.

The members’ performances, which express a determination and strength of will to keep moving forward even while depicting self-deprecating inner conflict, are deeply moving.

You’re drawn in by center Hikaru Morita’s dynamism, and this representative song shines with the evolving beauty and coolness of Sakurazaka46.

Their live performances are overwhelming too, riveting you with a strength that faces any situation head-on.

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KEI

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TOKYO SNOWSakurazaka4610rank/position

TOKYO SNOW

A poignant winter ballad that layers unspoken feelings onto the snow descending over Tokyo’s sky.

It’s included on the regular edition of Sakurazaka46’s 10th single, “I want tomorrow to come,” released in October 2024.

Even while knowing that snow in the city won’t settle, the song delicately depicts the uncontrollable swell of emotion, set to a piano-centered melody.

It opens with a poetic monologue by Shizuki Yamashita, and the gradually intensifying emotions are mirrored in the sound—an impressive structure.

The lyrics entrust feelings that fade before they can be spoken to the melting snow, making the song resonate especially on quiet year-end nights.

It’s a perfect track for moments when you want to face your heart at the close of the year.

I can’t learn to like myself.Sakurazaka4611rank/position

Sakurazaka46 “I Can’t Come to Like Myself”

Keyakizaka46, a Sakamichi idol group popular for their stylish musicality.

Among the Sakamichi groups, they’re known for having difficult songs, but there are some that are easy to sing.

The one I recommend is “I Can’t Learn to Love Myself.” This track features a very catchy vocal line and doesn’t require a particularly wide range.

With many melodies that lean slightly toward a Showa-era style, it should be manageable even for those who tend to go off pitch.

Give it a listen.

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What age would you like to go back to?Sakurazaka4612rank/position

Sakurazaka46 'What Age Do You Want to Go Back To?'

Sakurazaka46’s 8th single “How Old Do You Want to Go Back To?” was released on February 21, 2024, and its message has resonated with many listeners.

The song is directed at young people struggling with the “now,” offering strength to look forward even as they reflect on the past.

It carries a message of courage and hope for those of us worn down by reality and prone at times to escape into the past.

The music video, with Ten Yamasaki as center, also became a hot topic.

A Shortcut to SummerSakurazaka4613rank/position

Sakurazaka46 'Short Cut to Summer'

Its sweet-and-sour, refreshing melody is striking, as if capturing the tender feelings of first love that blossom with the arrival of summer and the casual yet sparkling moments with friends.

This track is included on the fifth single, “Sakurazuki,” released in February 2023.

A love song perfect for summer, coloring a page of youth.

Be sure to listen to it in your favorite scene!

EssentialsSakurazaka4614rank/position

Sakurazaka46 “Essential Things”

Among the Sakamichi Series groups, Keyakizaka46 is an idol group especially known for its stylish musicality.

They keep dropping hit numbers time after time, but the work we particularly recommend to teenage girls is “Essential Things.” While Keyakizaka46 often has songs with somewhat complex vocal lines, this piece is arranged relatively simply.

There are no especially challenging high notes, so even those whose vocal projection isn’t very stable should be able to sing it without trouble.

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Ryo

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