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 whose titles start with 'I'. Masterpieces that begin with 'I' (311–320)
Path of LifeMitsuko Nakamura
Among Mitsuko Nakamura’s songs, the famed “Inochi no Hanamichi” is known as one of her most poignant, melancholic numbers.
This piece incorporates kobushi (ornamental vocal turns) that include hiccups—an inverted, flipping vocal technique characteristic of the Kawachi Ondo style.
Because the Kawachi Ondo kobushi is generally easier than the typical chest-voice kobushi that moves pitch up and down, the overall difficulty of this song is set relatively low.
However, if the key doesn’t suit your voice, the difficulty can spike sharply, so when singing it at karaoke, adjust the key so that your voice flips comfortably right at the kobushi passages.
Pain, go away!ZORN
ZORN weaves a soul’s cry, facing pain that gouges at the depths of the heart, in his uniquely crafted words.
It’s a gem of a song that earnestly sings to a friend on the verge of being crushed by mental exhaustion and helplessness.
Even amid heart-rending sorrow, the warm wish of “let’s meet again” shines like a light and seeps into the heart.
Released in July 2022, the piece features BACHLOGIC’s polished production, vividly coloring the nuances of emotion.
It gently resonates with those standing at the brink of deep despair, and with anyone who wants to be close to the pain of someone they cherish.
Someday, become a star that never fades.Tohta Kasamura
A Vocaloid track that blends poignancy and emotion, pressing close to the heart.
Composed by Toa Kasamura, it was released in January 2025.
The lyrics—an earnest wish to stay by the side of someone precious, reaching toward eternity—truly resonate.
Its beautiful piano-only arrangement and Hatsune Miku’s clear, straightforward vocals are profoundly moving.
It’s a song to listen to when you feel lonely.
It will surely soothe you with a gentle touch.
Live (feat. KAFU)Atsu Mizuno
A moving song that portrays the struggle and hope of living.
While there’s a measure of positivity toward “life,” many will relate to the protagonist who feels anxious and withdraws.
At the same time, the strong desire to “keep living” leaves a lasting impression.
Released in July 2021, the track earned high marks overseas on the iTunes Store J-Pop chart.
It’s a song that stays close to those who feel life is hard or who want to discover their sense of purpose.
Why not spend some time facing yourself, wrapped in gentle melodies and a clear, transparent voice?
01Nei Kamizaki
“01” is a work by Nei Kamizaki, released in January 2025.
It’s an impressive track featuring Hatsune Miku’s clear, translucent vocals and a grand, expansive EDM sound.
The lyrics explore one’s sense of purpose and loneliness while singing of hope for the future.
Combined with its ethereal sound, it resonates deeply with listeners.
When you’re struggling, this song might just be there to stay by your side.
Songs that start with 'I'. Classic tracks beginning with 'I' (321–330)
love at first sightMashō Funatsu
This is a song by Masato Funatsu that portrays a sweet, bittersweet feeling of love.
It sings, over a catchy melody, about pure emotions that begin the moment of love at first sight.
From the instant you first see them, your heart won’t stop racing and everything about that person becomes precious—many listeners will relate to that exhilarating start of a romance.
Released in May 2024, the song became a massive hit, surpassing 300 million views thanks to its spread on TikTok.
It’s the perfect track when you want to boost your motivation for love.
Give it a listen—and maybe find the courage to talk to that special someone.
That’s how it always is.TENSONG
TENSONG’s track “Itsudatte Sonna Mondaro” was released in February 2025.
Its lyrics, which depict everyday struggles and the ups and downs of life, really hit home.
It’s resonating especially with young people, and there are many posts on social media saying things like “the lyrics hit hard” and “it gives me energy.” If you’re feeling down, this song might help.
Be sure to give it a careful listen!