Songs whose titles start with 'I'. Masterpieces that begin with 'I'.
I’m going to introduce songs with titles that start with “i” (the Japanese syllable pronounced ee)!
When you think of “i,” words like ichigo (strawberry), iruka (dolphin), and iro (color) come to mind, so it’s not a particularly tricky letter even in shiritori, right?
But what about when it comes to song titles?
Actually, there are plenty of songs whose titles start with “i”!
In this article, I’ve gathered a variety of Japanese songs—both old and new—whose titles begin with “i.”
You might even find some you listen to regularly.
Feel free to use this as a reference when playing song-title shiritori and the like!
- A compilation of Vocaloid songs with titles that start with “I.”
- Songs with titles starting with “Ki” [Great for karaoke & shiritori!]
- Songs with titles that start with “Su.” A collection of tracks useful for shiritori.
- Masterpieces with titles that start with 'A'
- Songs with titles that start with “Chi.” Useful as hints for word-chain games!
- Songs with titles starting with “E” [Great for karaoke and shiritori, too!]
- A compilation of Vocaloid songs with titles that start with “Ki”
- Songs with titles that start with 'Ke'
- Songs with titles that start with a number. Useful for karaoke or playlist selection.
- Vocaloid Songs for When You Want to Cry [Moving and Heart-wrenching]
- Songs that start with the letter “Shi.” Perfect for shiritori or karaoke!
- A roundup of songs with titles that start with “N” [There are actually more than you’d expect!!]
- Collection of song titles that start with 'Ni'
Songs with titles that start with 'I'. Masterpieces beginning with 'I' (301–310)
If we ever meet in the city somedayMasatoshi Nakamura
It’s a gently written, heart-touching classic about memories of a past lover and the wish to meet again.
From parting in the city of memories, to love and resentment, and even the moment when dreams were shattered, it weaves together every moment the two spent together.
Masatoshi Nakamura’s warm vocals blend beautifully with the soothing melody crafted by Takuro Yoshida, resulting in a song that evokes both nostalgia and bittersweet longing.
Released in May 1975, it was used as an insert song in the drama “Oretachi no Kunshō” and reached No.
6 on the Oricon charts.
Many artists, including Naoko Ken and Masayuki Suzuki, have covered it.
It’s a song you’ll want to listen to if you’ve experienced parting from someone dear, or when you’re in the mood to reminisce about the past.
one thousand light-yearsIyowa
If you like Vocaloid, this is guaranteed to hit home! Composed by Iyowa, it was released in March 2023.
The sustained long tones that resonate throughout and the soothing choral work create a bliss so moving it might bring you to tears.
The lyrics depict a journey to a distant future and fantastical places while beautifully expressing the ebb and flow of emotions in the real world.
Its profound message—centered on love, time, and the meaning of existence—truly sinks in.
It’s a Vocaloid track that gives you the strength to keep moving forward!
Songs whose titles start with 'I'. Masterpieces that begin with 'I' (311–320)
Easy On MeAdele
Adele, the British singer known for her deep emotions and powerful vocals, released a song that symbolizes a turning point in her life as the lead single from her album “30” in October 2021.
Beginning with a gentle piano melody and gradually building in emotion, this moving ballad reflects on the turmoil following her divorce and her feelings for her son.
Looking back on the version of herself who was “still a child,” Adele sings with apologies and love for her son.
With lyrics and vocals that stir many hearts, the song dominated charts around the world.
It’s a track that quietly stays by your side when facing heartbreak or standing at a crossroads in life.
Izakaya “Showa”Aki Yashiro
Aki Yashiro’s classic “Izakaya ‘Showa’” leaves a strikingly somber impression.
Yashiro is renowned for her ‘men’s songs,’ and among them, this piece is exceptionally rugged and refined.
True to enka style, there are solid kobushi (ornamental turns), but most of them shift only one or two scale degrees, so it shouldn’t feel difficult.
Rather than a clean vocal tone, this song benefits from a weathered, husky quality, so it’s recommended to sing it when your voice feels a bit worn.
To my belovedMiyuki Kawanaka
Listening to the chorus of this song, many people from the generation familiar with the ’90s will probably be reminded of House Foods’ instant ramen “Umaissho” commercial.
It’s a single released in 1994 by Miyuki Kawanaka, packed with J-pop flavor and a bit removed from classic enka.
Even those who aren’t fond of full-on enka will likely find it an easy song to try at karaoke.
Of course, techniques honed in enka—like vibrato—show up throughout, but it’s nice that the melody still feels good to sing even without vibrato.
Once you get used to it, listen closely to Kawanaka’s original performance and try gradually incorporating vibrato.
Inarimachi Love SongYuto Tatsumi
For Yuto Tatsumi, the coupling track “Inaricho Koiuta” from his second single “Otoko no Junjo” is a classic, heartwarming enka themed around “Inaricho,” which lies between the Ueno and Asakusa areas, just as the title suggests.
It has the feel of quintessential enka, so those accustomed to singing enka should handle it with ease.
Even beginners will likely find it approachable, as signature enka techniques like kobushi and vibrato aren’t overly emphasized.
The pitch range is on the lower side, making it a welcome choice for those who struggle with high notes.
Conversely, if low notes are difficult for you, try to focus on clearly enunciating the lyrics as you sing.
Merry Christmas forever.INFINITY 16 welcomes SHOCK EYE from Shonan no Kaze, MUNEHIRO
A heartwarming track that delivers the warmth and love of Christmas on a reggae rhythm.
INFINITY 16 presents this winter classic featuring SHOCK EYE and MUNEHIRO.
Released in November 2007, the song’s lyrics—expressing gentle feelings for a lover—leave a lasting impression.
Scenes like gifting a small diamond ring capture a man’s awkward yet touching way of showing love.
It was also chosen as the opening theme for TBS’s “COUNT DOWN TV,” resonating with many listeners.
Perfect for anyone who wants to savor the Christmas atmosphere or convey feelings to someone special through song.
It’s sure to be a hit at karaoke, too.