Lovely anime song

[Anison × Rock] A compilation of anime songs performed by rock bands

DancerFukkun:)Tatsuki Fukuda
Primarily active in Tokyo, I have experience as a backup dancer for artists, a music video dancer, and a commercial dancer. I continue to work as a dancer while also engaging in article production. After discovering Michael Jackson in junior high school, I began dancing in my second year of high school. Since starting dance, in addition to the J-Pop and Japanese rock I had been listening to, I began exploring Western R&B, rap, alternative music, and other tracks commonly used for dance. In elementary school, I spent three years in a choir, and because I love singing, I often go to karaoke for fun. These days, I enjoy a wide range of music, from Japanese rock and rap to K-pop.
Bassist and radio listenercucumber roll (kappa maki)
A Kyoto-based bassist who loves radio and ska punk. I mostly inhabit the ani-radio scene, but I’m not a professional. I’m a bit unusual in that I’ve built up my anison knowledge through ani-radio. My love of ska punk centers on Japanese bands. I’ve also worked as a staffer at a music studio. I’m always running around in circles every day.

In recent years, it’s become the norm for popular rock bands to handle anime theme songs!

High-energy, fast-paced Japanese rock is a perfect fit for hyping up anime.

These days, many bands have gone nationwide thanks to anime tie-ins, and there are plenty of people who got into anime, fell in love with the theme song, and then became fans of the band.

So in this article, we’ll be showcasing a bunch of anime songs created by rock bands!

A must-read for rock band lovers and anime fans alike.

[Anison × Rock] A Collection of Anime Songs Sung by Rock Bands (71–80)

Say My NameHEY-SMITH

HEY-SMITH – Say My Name【OFFICIAL MUSIC VIDEO】

Say My NameHEY-SMITH

Say My Name, released in 2023 by HEY-SMITH, a punk band from Osaka Prefecture, was featured as the ending theme for the Tenjiku Arc of the anime Tokyo Revengers.

It delivers a vibrant rock sound built on passionate punk and melodic hardcore, intertwined with a horn section.

The lyrics, which resonate with the story depicting characters’ emotions as they move between past and future, are also noteworthy.

It’s a fast-paced track that sings of a heroic figure who keeps fighting for their dear friends and for themselves.

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Mosaic FragmentSun Set Swish

[Code Geass] Mosaic Kakera / SunSet Swish [LIVE] with Lyrics Subtitles

Mosaic Kakera Sun Set Swish

This is a 2007 song by SunSet Swish, a three-piece rock band known for having many anime tie-in tracks.

It served as the ending theme for the anime Code Geass: Lelouch of the Rebellion, with beautiful lyrics and vocals that enhance the show’s world.

SunSet Swish is currently active under the band name Swish!.

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Gradation feat. Yuho KitazawaKANA-BOON

TV anime “My Love Story with Yamada-kun at Lv999” non-credit opening video | KANA-BOON “Gradation feat. Yuuho Kitazawa”

Gradation feat. Yuho Kitazawa (KANA-BOON)

“gradation feat.

Yuho Kitazawa” stands out with a rhythm that makes you want to start dancing.

This track is a collaboration between the rock band KANA-BOON—known for hits like “Silhouette” and “Full Drive”—and female guitarist Yuho Kitazawa.

Chosen as the opening theme for the TV anime Loving Yamada at Lv999!, the song features KANA-BOON’s signature simple melody that matches the anime’s vibe perfectly.

Kitazawa’s cute vocals also give the track a more poppy feel, so be sure to pay attention to the vocal work when you listen.

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Cry BabyOfficial HIGE DANDism

Official HIGE DANDism – Cry Baby [Official Video]

Cry Baby Official HIGE DANDism

This is the fifth digital single by Official HIGE DANDism, a band that now leads the J-pop scene.

Chosen as the opening theme for the TV anime Tokyo Revengers, the track rides a shuffle beat with a rock sound that pumps up the energy.

Even with its thrilling structure that rapidly shifts keys, it never loses the band’s trademark pop sensibility and catchiness, showcasing their impeccable musical balance and taste.

With arrangements that superbly mirror the anime’s emotional temperature, this song reveals a new side of Official HIGE DANDism.

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DAYBREAK’S BELLL’Arc〜en〜Ciel

L’Arc～en～Ciel「DAYBREAK’S BELL」-Music Clip-

DAYBREAK'S BELLL'Arc〜en〜Ciel

With its grand melody and profound message, this song is a gem of rock that leaves a deep impression on listeners.

It masterfully fuses L’Arc~en~Ciel’s distinctive sound with lyrics themed around anti-war sentiment and love for humanity.

The intricate drum and guitar rhythm patterns, along with a youthful arrangement reminiscent of their indie days, are also striking.

Released in October 2007, the track was chosen as the opening theme for Season 1 of the anime Mobile Suit Gundam 00 and topped the Oricon Weekly Singles Chart.

It was also included on the album KISS, capturing the hearts of a wide audience from rock fans to anime enthusiasts.

For those who grew up loving anime and the Gundam series, it is surely a song that resonates even more deeply.

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Kokoro-eRoad of Major

Road of Major / Kokoro-e

Kokoro-e Road of Major

When it comes to the theme songs for the baseball-themed anime Major, their image is strongly associated with it, isn’t it? Among them, their major-label debut single Kokoroe is one of their most popular and representative songs.

They’re a band known for a punk-like sense of speed and a high-tone voice that leaves a catchy impression.

The band was active for only five years, from 2002 to 2007, and afterward, Kenichi Kitagawa, who served as the vocalist, has continued his solo career.

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Cherry blossoms in full, resplendent bloomKEYTALK

KEYTALK – “Ouka Ranman” MUSIC VIDEO

Cherry Blossoms in Full Bloom KEYTALK

The rock band KEYTALK performs the theme song “Ouka Ranman” for the anime RIN-NE.

They’ve produced many catchy tracks marked by a danceable beat that makes effective use of four-on-the-floor and sharp guitar riffs.

Another of their strengths is their twin-vocal setup, in which the two members—guitarist Tomomasa Teranaka, known as “the maestro,” and bassist Yoshikatsu Shutō—switch vocal duties depending on the song.

Their ability to show different sides of themselves from track to track is a big part of their appeal!

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