A classic song with a title that starts with “Ru”
Have you ever played shiritori using song titles?
Surprisingly, you can’t recall song names as easily as you’d think, and it gets pretty heated.
One of the trickiest letters in that game—easily among the top contenders—is “ru.”
There just aren’t many songs that come to mind starting with “ru,” right?
But if you look, you’ll find there are plenty of hidden gems that do start with “ru”!
From titles using colors and gemstones to words like rookie and loop, we found lots of songs.
By all means, enjoy the quirky yet wonderful world of songs starting with the notoriously tricky “ru.”
Masterpieces with Titles Starting with “Ru” (1–10)
LOSERNEW!Kenshi Yonezu
Kenshi Yonezu’s iconic song “LOSER.” The music video drew attention for his own dancing, and the track became one that showcased Yonezu’s artistry to the public.
Though released in 2016, it remains highly popular today, earning strong support not only from people in their 20s but also from those in their 30s.
The track has a somewhat cyber vibe, and despite the title’s “loser” theme, the lyrics are crafted to be uplifting—making it a perfect fit for those in their 30s who often face many challenges in the working world.
Look at meNEW!BIGMAMA
On a morning platform, clenching a fist tight inside a packed train.
Starting from that everyday sense of urgency, this song vividly captures the frustration and loneliness of a protagonist not yet twenty.
The world moves on without you noticing, everything rushing past, and in the midst of it, a cry of anger at being left behind.
Originally released to the world in 2006 on the mini-album “short films,” the track was re-recorded and released in 2013 as the B-side of the single “alongside.” It was also included on the 2017 best-of album “BESTMAMA.” It’s a song that resonates with the youthful urgency many have felt—the yearning to assert yourself, and the exasperation when it doesn’t quite come out right.
rougeNEW!Ayami Muto
A singer who brings the charm of ’80s kayō pop into the present, Ayami Muto included this track on her 10th solo debut anniversary album, “Memorial HOTEL,” released in December 2024.
The song captures a magical moment: standing before a mirror, applying a bold rouge, and transforming into a special, one-night-only version of yourself.
Her sweet, whisper-like vocals convey the heroine’s fluttering excitement as she gains confidence, making it a perfect choice for a makeup-themed playlist.
Its straightforward, roughly two-and-a-half-minute structure, reminiscent of Showa-era pop, also leaves a strong impression.
Play it while you’re getting ready to go out, and it’s sure to lift your mood.
A glittering pop tune that gives you the strength not to let your dreams fade away.
Route 246Nogizaka46
This is a digital-only single composed by Tetsuya Komuro, famed as a master hitmaker, created in collaboration with lyricist Yasushi Akimoto—their first team-up in about ten years.
Released in July 2020, the song was also performed at that year’s NHK Kōhaku Uta Gassen.
Its sparkling synths that evoke classic TK sound and its exhilarating, fast-paced beat really stick in your ears.
The lyrics inspire the courage to follow the path you believe in without being swayed by others’ judgments, giving a push to anyone pursuing a dream or goal.
With a striking contrast between its cool melody and supple vocals, it’s a track that lifts your spirits and moves you forward.
lutherKendrick Lamar & SZA
Kendrick Lamar, the rapper at the pinnacle of today’s hip-hop scene, and SZA, who reigns supreme in modern R&B—their team-up on this love ballad naturally produces a remarkable chemistry.
Paying homage to a legendary soul singer, the track is a moving piece that portrays two people nurturing love even in difficult circumstances.
Kendrick’s rap, pledging a devoted love that amplifies his partner’s dreams many times over, blends powerfully with SZA’s vocals, which find hope amid adversity like a flower blooming through concrete—truly breathtaking.
Featured on Kendrick’s album “GNX,” the song became a massive hit, reaching No.
1 on the U.
S.
charts in March 2025.
Use it as the soundtrack for a video montage with someone special or for an emotional vlog, and it’s sure to add depth and resonance.
LOOPSIRUP
Here’s a track by singer-songwriter SIRUP, known for his polished sound.
It’s included on his August 2018 EP, “SIRUP EP2,” and features smooth vocals and a comfortable beat.
The lyrics portray a bittersweet feeling, replaying memories of a love that can never return over and over in one’s mind.
With its laid-back groove, it’s perfect for focused work sessions.
At the same time, the story woven into the lyrics gently accompanies quiet nights when you want to be alone with your thoughts.
Rubik LoveGenie High
This track is a pop number that portrays a frustrating, unrequited love, included on the second album “Jenny Star,” released in September 2021.
With a theme of a relationship that never quite aligns—like a Rubik’s Cube—it sings of missed connections, inner conflict, and a longing that refuses to give up.
The message, which gently embraces such complex emotions, becomes deeply relatable.
Over a lively groove, the interwoven ensemble of guitar and dazzling piano deftly expresses the wavering of a love that’s anything but straightforward.
It’s a song that will resonate with anyone struggling through a complicated romance.