Who's your oshi? A roundup of popular underground and live idols
They’re now known as “live idols,” but groups that centered their activities around live performances used to be called “underground idols,” right?
The term actually has a surprisingly long history—it originated in the 1990s!
In this article, we’ll introduce a wide range of idol groups known as live idols (formerly underground idols) all at once.
We’ve picked out everything from groups that are already popular to up-and-coming acts likely to break through, so be sure to find a new favorite!
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Who's your oshi? A roundup of popular underground and live idols (1–10)
poplarKaika
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!
summer snowUguisu Kago
Uguisukago is pronounced “Torikago.” They might just be the most talked-about group in the idol scene right now.
Above all, their live shows are on fire! It’s like the word “emo” was invented for Uguisukago.
And while it almost goes without saying how stunning every member is—PINOKO, Banpaia, Karaage, Dako Otsu, and Tenten—I can’t help but want to gush about them! The world of this song, “summer snow,” is about quietly watching over girls who eagerly await sights they’ve yet to see.
It’s not intense, but it’s a beautiful track where a quiet inner strength shines through.
Our Scenariomugen no shinario
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.
Who's your oshi? Roundup of popular underground idols and live idols (11–20)
New Strangersora tob sakana
Known by the nickname “Osakana,” this idol group enjoyed popularity for their one-of-a-kind musicality despite a brief run from 2014 to 2020.
Their unusual group name stems from the idea that “by embracing incompleteness, we can get closer to completeness; taking off into the sky, step by step aiming upward and growing,” expressing a direction that treats incompleteness as a defining trait.
The post-rock approach produced by Junsei Terui of the alternative rock band haisuinonasa was unlike anything else in idol music, making a striking impact on the scene.
Though they disbanded to much regret, they remain a beloved group remembered for shaking up the idol music landscape.
I won’t run away!!Yurumerumo!
I think many people are drawn in by the uniquely unconventional lyrical world that isn’t very idol-like.
Collaborations with a wide range of musicians—such as Akira Sakata and Urbangarde—have also become a hot topic.
This song, “I Won’t Run Away!!,” perhaps created as an homage to “Run Away!!,” presents a paradoxical lyrical world that, in its own way, affirms the act of running away.
Its bouncy, pop sound lightens the weight of a difficult theme, which also gives it that distinct Yurumerumo! feel.
I hope you’ll listen to it whenever school or work feels tough.
Poi Poi Pacmasshirona kyanbasu
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!
Girls LegendANDCRAZY BREAK
ANDCRAZY, who went on hiatus in 2013, is back—now as ANDCRAZY BREAK—and they’re on the verge of a real breakthrough! Their track “Girrls Legend” goes beyond the typical idol sound and is a must-listen even for those who don’t usually listen to idol music.
It lulls you into thinking, “Is this a digital sound?” and then—bam—the chorus explodes into a rock style that’s just plain cool.
With lyrics that shout, “Let’s create a new legend from nothing,” it delivers the quintessential thrill of girls’ rock!