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

The growing up trainSakurazaka4631rank/position

Sakurazaka46 “The Growing Up Train” Music Video

Sakurazaka46, the idol group that has continued to captivate fans with powerful messages and overwhelming performances since renaming from Keyakizaka46.

Scheduled for release as their 14th single in March 2026, this track is also drawing attention as the first in about two years and nine months to feature Karin Fujiyoshi at center.

Its lyrics, which question conventional wisdom and depict youth groping their way forward through darkness, are sure to resonate deeply with many people entering a season of change.

The music video—highlighted by performances using stand mics and choreography that plays with timing—is a must-see as well.

Blending a band sound marked by striking piano and organ tones with contemporary beats, it’s a powerful song that signals a new chapter for the group.

Why haven’t I fallen in love?Sakurazaka4632rank/position

Sakurazaka46 'Why Haven’t I Fallen in Love Before?'

Sakurazaka46 is an idol group backed by their powerful performances.

Featured on their single “Nobody’s fault,” released in December 2020, this track overflows with the thrills of love, offering a contrast to their typically serious image.

It sings of the mysterious, floating sensation of a sudden romance that colors the world and makes you feel like you’re changing, carried by an up-tempo beat.

Expressing with every fiber of the body the power and excitement that come from falling in love, this song is perfect for blowing away the winter chill or for women whose feelings are growing for someone special.

Dried fruitSakurazaka4633rank/position

Sakurazaka46 “Dried Fruits” Music Video

From an electronic, inorganic-sounding intro, this track pulls you into a dark, mysterious world.

Its cynical lyrics, depicting the passage of time as freshness slips away, are bound to resonate with anyone who’s gone through the same experience.

Formerly known as Keyakizaka46 until their 2020 name change, Sakurazaka46 has continued to captivate fans with an atmosphere that sets them apart from conventional idol groups.

Featured on their 14th single, “The growing up train,” released in March 2026, this song is centered by 3rd-generation member Miwa Murayama, delivering a number that conveys the group’s momentum and future.

It’s a modern pop tune perfect for those who want to bask in a cool, solitary mood.

Shall we go home holding hands?Sakurazaka4634rank/position

Keyakizaka46 'Shall We Go Home Holding Hands?' Short Ver.

This is a love song by Sakurazaka46, whose sense of grandeur as a large-scale idol group creates an outstandingly exciting atmosphere.

Their artistry is easy for high school girls to relate to, and the song stands out for its singability, making it a great choice for karaoke.

A mermaid in a uniformSakurazaka4635rank/position

Sakurazaka46 “Mermaid in Uniform” Vocal Line Distribution

Casting off the uniforms that symbolize suffocating rules to become mermaids who swim freely—that earnest wish of the girls resonates at the heart of this Sakurazaka46 unit song.

It sets to upbeat electropop the delicate emotional landscape where rebellion against growing up mingles with a thirst to become someone.

The track is included on the single “Samidare yo,” released in April 2022.

The slightly sassy, precocious live performances further accentuate the song’s world.

When you feel like you’re struggling inside the “fish tank” of school regulations and others’ expectations, listening to it will gently nudge you toward staying true to yourself.

I wish it could be spring forever.Sakurazaka4636rank/position

[Sakurazaka46/Vocal distribution/Part assignment] If Only It Had Stayed Spring Forever... / Sakurazaka46 (Rina Inoue, Rei Ozono, Hono Tamura)

Here’s something that will resonate with those feeling a bit lonely as the season of farewells approaches.

It’s a song by the popular idol group Sakurazaka46, included on their album “As you know?” released in August 2022.

Sung by three members—Rina Inoue, Hono Tamura, and Rei Ozono—the track features a sparkling, radiant melody that really stands out.

The trio’s clear, translucent vocals blend perfectly with that melody.

It tugs at the heart with a bittersweet wish for spring to never end, and the emotional wavering between that longing and the resolve to keep moving forward.

Give it a listen when it’s hard to part ways with friends.

You might just create an unforgettable spring scenery of your own.

light sourceSakurazaka4637rank/position

Sakurazaka46 “Kōgen (Light Source)” MUSIC VIDEO

Sakurazaka46 is drawing intense attention at home and abroad for performances and messages that upend conventional idol images.

Hikari-gen, included on their 14th single The growing up train released in March 2026, is a standout track created primarily by the 4th generation.

With Konomi Asai as center, lyrics by Yasushi Akimoto, and composition by Koshiro Honda, the song leaves a strong impression as it raises its voice toward the future while resisting a cruel reality.

It was pre-released in February 2026, and the worldview of the music video directed by Hidejin Kato pulls you right in.

It’s a song that gives you courage when you want to find the light within yourself.

The wintry wind does not cry.Sakurazaka4638rank/position

Sakurazaka46 “The Cold Wind Doesn’t Cry” Music Video

This is a song by the BACKS members included on the 13th single “Unhappy birthday Syntax,” released in October 2025.

It’s a bittersweet mid-tempo number with third-generation member Aiki Taniguchi as center.

Composed and arranged by Masaharu Tsuruku, formerly of The Checkers, it crafts a deep, evocative world that transcends the idol genre.

It’s a track that gives you a gentle push when you want the courage to face loneliness and anxiety.