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

What age would you like to go back to?Sakurazaka4611rank/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.

I can’t learn to like myself.Sakurazaka4612rank/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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Ryo

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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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It’s not as lonely as I thought.Sakurazaka4615rank/position

Sakurazaka46 “Not As Lonely As I Thought”

A song by Sakurazaka46, the idol group that rebranded and made a fresh start in 2020 after Keyakizaka46, which had delivered numerous shocks to the J-POP scene.

The track was featured in Lawson’s commercial “Sakurazaka46 & Hinatazaka46 Campaign (Sakurazaka46 ver.)” and is included as a coupling track on their second single, BAN.

While inheriting the serious atmosphere carried over from the Keyakizaka46 era, the lively acoustic guitar backing and impactful synth sounds suggest a new frontier.

It’s an impressive number that showcases one facet of a group that continues to evolve.

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Hoshino Takashi

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The violence of silenceSakurazaka4616rank/position

Sakurazaka46 “Violence of Silence”

Sakurazaka46 is the idol group that renamed itself from Keyakizaka46—known for songs with unusually strong messages for an idol group—and made a fresh start in 2020.

“The Violence of Silence,” included on their 6th single “Start over!,” is a third-generation track that conveys the group’s momentum and future.

The lyrics are philosophical yet vividly evocative, making them relatable to anyone who has had similar experiences.

It’s a stylish pop tune with a grand, piano-featured ensemble that overwhelms the listener.

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Hoshino Takashi

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Nightmare SyndromeSakurazaka4617rank/position

Sakurazaka46 'Nightmare Syndrome' Music Video

This work leaves a striking impression with its fantastical, dark atmosphere.

It is included on the single “UDAGAWA GENERATION,” released on February 19, 2025.

The song expresses the anxiety and confusion that arise from falling in love, portrayed in the form of a nightmare.

Its heavy, bass-driven sound blends seamlessly with the sharp vocals of the third-generation members.

Many listeners will relate to the anxiety and inner conflict that lurk within the feeling of loving someone.

It’s an ambitious piece that masterfully depicts both the light and shadow of romance.

Nothing specialSakurazaka4618rank/position

Sakurazaka46 “Nothing special” Music Video

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

While many of their songs are complex, their newly released track “Nothing special” is different.

It’s a mid-tempo piece with an impressive, grand arrangement, but it features numerous rests and gently flowing pitch movement, making it exceptionally easy to sing.

The vocal range isn’t exactly narrow, yet it doesn’t go particularly high either, so in many respects it can be considered a very singable song.

Be sure to add it to your repertoire.

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Ryo

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need for approvalSakurazaka4619rank/position

Sakurazaka46 “Desire for Approval”

Sakurazaka46’s “Shōnin Yokkyū” (“Need for Approval”) is a powerful number that voices the cries of the SNS generation.

Released on October 18, 2023, the song explores themes of self-expression and the sense of loneliness within a group.

Its lyrics, which depict the importance of communication and the dilemma of seeking approval, will resonate with many people.

If you’re a teenager living in today’s world, you’ll surely relate.

I hope you give it a listen and let it leave its mark on your heart.

BuddiesSakurazaka4620rank/position

Sakurazaka46 “Buddies”

Debuting as Keyakizaka46 in 2015, they were renamed Sakurazaka46 in 2020.

“Buddies,” included as a coupling track on their first single released in 2020, “Nobody’s fault,” carries the meaning of comrades or close friends and is also the name given to Sakurazaka46’s fans.

Its bright melody and positive lyrics are uplifting! It’s a work that lights a beacon of hope in your heart.

The music video is beautiful as well, so if you’re thinking of dedicating the song to someone, showing them the video might be a great idea.

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Kado(guchi) Shichigatsu

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