Moving and iconic anime songs, popular tracks

Promise of SunflowersMotohiro Hata

Motohiro Hata / Promise of a Sunflower (Short Ver.)

This is the theme song for the animated film ‘STAND BY ME Doraemon.

‘ Released in 2014, it’s Motohiro Hata’s 17th single and his biggest hit.

It’s a devoted, heartfelt, and bittersweet song that perfectly suits a Doraemon movie—one that brings tears to everyone’s eyes.

strollJoe Hisaishi

My Neighbor Totoro – Hey let’s go (Ghibli 25th year Budokan concert)

Azumi Inoue’s “Sanpo,” the signature song from Studio Ghibli’s emblematic film My Neighbor Totoro, is performed here with orchestra and chorus.

The footage is from “Joe Hisaishi in Budokan: 25 Years with the Animations of Hayao Miyazaki,” featuring numerous Ghibli masterpieces arranged and conducted by Joe Hisaishi himself.

The live texture of the orchestra is truly wonderful.

This piece was previously arranged for “Orchestra Stories: My Neighbor Totoro,” which includes a narrated performance—highly recommended as well.

Like an instrument introduction, it features sections where only the woodwinds or only the brass play, as well as sections for strings and percussion, plus solo passages, making it an arrangement that showcases the orchestra’s appeal.

It’s also recommended as an introductory piece for those new to orchestral music.

Miracle soupMindaRyn

MindaRyn – Miracle soup (“That Time I Got Reincarnated as a Slime Season 3” 2nd ED) | Music Video

This song is characterized by its heartwarming message and gentle vocals.

MindaRyn’s clear, transparent voice resonates deeply with listeners.

Released in June 2024, it was selected as the ending theme for the popular anime That Time I Got Reincarnated as a Slime Season 3.

The song carries a warm message: let’s savor life’s joys and sorrows together, like a comforting soup.

When you need to heal a weary heart or find hope for tomorrow, this piece will surely embrace you.

It’s recommended not only for anime fans but also for anyone seeking touching lyrics and a tender melody.

Song of DepartureClass 3-E

Song of Departure

It’s an insert song from the anime Assassination Classroom.

Many people probably feel a lump in their throat when this track plays during the anime’s climax.

Sung by the members of Class 3-E, it’s a moving choral piece themed around graduation and parting.

Released in September 2016, the song brilliantly expresses the anime’s worldview through music and has left a deep impression on fans.

Its forward-looking lyrics, like a gentle push from the wind, will warmly encourage anyone embarking on a new journey.

Even if you haven’t seen the anime, listening to it during the spring graduation season will truly resonate with your heart.

LAGRIMAONEPIXCEL

ONEPIXCEL / LAGRIMA (TV Anime “Dragon Ball Super” January 2018 Cour Ending Theme) (FULL VER.)

A masterpiece whose wistful melody, carried by a cool electro sound, lingers in the heart.

Released in March 2018 as the major-label debut single of the vocal and dance unit ONEPIXCEL, it was used as the ending theme for the anime Dragon Ball Super.

As the Spanish title meaning “tears” suggests, the song conveys a strong will to turn sorrow into strength and step forward into the future.

Many listeners were likely moved by the resolve to face forward even while knowing the pain of loss.

Grand Escape (Movie edit) feat. Toko MiuraRADWIMPS

Grand Escape (Movie Edit)

It’s a grand and beautiful song that makes you want to soar into the sky.

Created by the rock band RADWIMPS and sung by vocalist Toko Miura, it was produced as the theme song for Makoto Shinkai’s animated film “Weathering With You” and included on the album “Weathering With You,” released in July 2019.

The lyrics express a strong resolve to break free from the stifling feeling of everyday life and carve out a future together with someone precious.

From its quiet beginning to a chorus that bursts open like a release, the song grips the listener’s heart and doesn’t let go.

If you listen while gazing up at the vast sky, you’ll surely feel courage welling up inside.

Tomorrow will come.TVXQ (also known as Tohoshinki; literally “Rising Gods of the East”)

TVXQ / Because Tomorrow Will Come

A gem of a medium-tempo ballad by Tohoshinki that brought a moving close to the ending of the anime ONE PIECE.

The song conveys a universal and powerful message of hope: no matter how deep the darkness, dawn will surely break.

Its beautiful harmonies, carried by a gently soothing melody, perfectly align with the series’ worldview—overcoming the bonds of friendship, the pain of parting, and pressing on.

Released as a single in March 2006, it was also included on the album Heart, Mind and Soul later that year.

It’s a heartwarming track that gives you a gentle courage to face tomorrow—perfect for nights when you feel uncertain about the future or quietly think of someone dear.