cherry (cherry fruit; sakuranbo)Ai Otsuka1rank/position

Ai Otsuka / Sakuranbo

Among Ai Otsuka’s works, this is truly a timeless classic that brightens listeners’ hearts and is loved across generations.

The lyrics, which look back on precious moments spent with a lover while singing of hope for the future, overflow with a universal appeal that resonates with anyone.

The expression that likens two fruits nestled close together to the couple’s relationship is also wonderfully cute and memorable.

This piece was released in December 2003 as her second single and is included on the album “LOVE PUNCH.” Many will recognize it as the opening theme for TBS’s music program “COUNT DOWN TV” and the ending theme for Fuji TV’s variety show “Mecha-Mecha Iketeru!” Even in slightly tense situations like karaoke with your boss, the song’s happy vibe will help lighten the mood.

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Ai Otsuka / Planetarium

A heart-stirring ballad that projects the ache of love onto the stars in the night sky, this piece is marked by Ai Otsuka’s delicate vocals and lyrical piano.

Memories of a lover and the wistfulness of time gone by are woven into the beautiful imagery of starry skies and planetariums, resonating deeply with listeners.

Used as the theme song for the drama “Koi no Karasawagi” and included on the album “LOVE COOK,” it has continued to soothe many hearts since its release in September 2005.

It’s a song you’ll want to listen to while gazing up at the stars on a solitary night—recommended for those looking to heal the pain of heartbreak or to immerse themselves in cherished memories with someone special.

Premium salted grilled Kuroge Wagyu tongue 680 yenAi Otsuka3rank/position

Ai Otsuka / Grilled Kuroge Wagyu Top Salted Tongue 680 yen

It’s a track distinguished by its buoyant rhythm and playful lyrics.

Released as a single by Ai Otsuka in February 2005, it was also used as the opening theme for the anime Black Jack.

While the title’s use of a yakiniku (grilled meat) menu is strikingly unique, the song carries a deeper message about finding happiness in life’s small, everyday moments.

It became a popular piece not only among anime fans but also among listeners of Ai Otsuka’s music.

Online, some interpret the food references as metaphors for romantic relationships, which offers a different perspective on the song.

Sing it at karaoke and the quirky title plus the light, breezy melody are sure to liven up the room.

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Ai Otsuka / Love Photograph

A heartbreakingly sad ballad that conveys unwavering love through its lyrics—one you absolutely shouldn’t miss.

It’s a song by singer-songwriter Ai Otsuka, also known for her hits “Sakuranbo” and “Kuroge Wagyu Jojo Tan Yaki 680 Yen.” Released in 2006 as her 13th single, it was chosen as the theme song for the film “Heavenly Forest” (Tada, Kimi wo Aishiteru).

The song’s transparent, delicate tone pairs beautifully with Otsuka’s straightforward vocals, resulting in something that could move you to tears on its own.

It will surely make you think, “Let’s have a love with no regrets.”

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Ai Otsuka / Spoiled Child (Short Ver.)

Ai Otsuka’s classic song “Amaenbo.” While Ai Otsuka has many unique tracks, this one is arranged as a particularly orthodox J-pop number among her works.

As a result, you won’t find vocal lines that require the complex pitch movements typical of modern songs.

The vocal range is about average, and since there aren’t especially high phrases in any section, there should be no vocal strain if you sing it in an appropriate key.

Consider adding it to your repertoire.

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Ai Otsuka / Goldfish Fireworks (Short Ver.)

Kin’yo Hanabi (Goldfish Fireworks) is one of Ai Otsuka’s signature summer songs, featuring two quintessential summer images: goldfish and fireworks.

Released in 2004, the song portrays a bittersweet love in summer that never quite reaches its destination.

It’s a love where simply being near the person, simply watching them, brings happiness.

Knowing the love won’t come true, the resolve to at least wish for that person’s happiness is achingly pure, heightening the sense of sorrow.

The piano’s timbre and Otsuka’s heart-piercing vocals seem to capture the fleeting nature of summer to the fullest.

The lyrics, the vocal delivery, and the melody are all expressed in a distinctly feminine style.

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Ai Otsuka / PEACH (Short Ver.)

Ai Otsuka has lots of energetic, hype songs, but this one is fresh, cute, and highly recommended.

There’s a simple bit of choreography where you raise your hands during the “PEACH” lyric in the song, so if you do it together with the audience during a performance, it might really liven things up.