Mariya Takeuchi's new song "Let's Give a Song" has been chosen as the theme song for the drama "Subarashiki Sai, Sensei!" Drama lead Erika Ikuta will also be joining the chorus.

■ “By having Ms. Sasaoka join in for one more voice at the end, I think it turned out to be a gentle song that really shows the bond between her and me.” (Mariya Takeuchi), “I was so honored I was shaking.” (Erika Ikuta)

Mariya Takeuchi’s new song “Uta wo Okuriou” has been chosen as the theme song for the ABC TV/TV Asahi drama “Subarashiki Kaya, Sensei!” which will start on August 18th.

Ikuta Erika’s first lead role in a terrestrial TV drama series, “Subarashiki Kaya, Sensei!”, is a hotly anticipated drama series this summer that depicts the growth of a new high school teacher, Sasaoka Rio.

The new song “Songs to Give” was written specifically for this drama. It is a medium tempo ballad. It is a heartwarming song with a warm message for people who are struggling and hurting, like the main character played by Ikuta, and is a song of encouragement that touches the heart.

In the second half of the song, Ikuta participated as a chorus, and the beautiful harmony between Takeuchi and Ikuta created a special song that is unique to the drama theme song. The video of the drama using the theme song was also released on each SNS of the drama.

It was also announced that “Let’s Give a Song” will be released on August 28th as Mariya Takeuchi’s first single of 2024.

The B-side includes a remastered version of the hit Asahi Draft Beer CM song “Genki wo Dashite,” as well as the first recorded version of JD Souther’s “The Last In Love” and a cover of the Eagles’ “New Kid In Town.” In addition, the album also includes the original karaoke versions of “Uta wo Okurerou” and “Genki wo Dashite.”

This title will be a limited edition, so if you want to be sure to get your hands on one, make sure to pre-order early.

Comment from Mariya Takeuchi
This is the first time I’ve been in charge of the theme song for a school drama, so I’m very grateful for this wonderful offer.
What’s more, the main character is played by the popular Erika Ikuta! I wanted to write a song that would heal her from the perspective of a young high school teacher and ease the pain and hardships she is carrying.
By having Professor Sasaoka join in with us at the end, I think it has turned out to be a gentle song that really shows the bond between us and the singer.
Nothing would make me happier than being able to cheer up not only teachers but also many people in different positions.

■ Comment from Erika Ikuta
When I heard that Takeuchi-san would be in charge of the theme song this time, I was so honored that I trembled.
Furthermore, when it was decided that I would be participating in the song as a chorus member, I felt a renewed sense of determination to “do my best” not only in the chorus but also in the drama that is colored by this song.
Before the recording, we received a handwritten letter from Takeuchi in which he explained the feelings he put into the song and a heartfelt message from him.
I put my heart into this song so that I could empathize with Takeuchi-san’s kindness, so I hope that people will love this song as much as they love the drama.

(C)ABC Television