[For Band Members] Recommended Anime Songs for Cultural and School Festival Live Performances [2025]

Ninja ScrollOnmyo-za

Koga Ninpōchō (MV)

It was used as the opening theme for the anime Basilisk: The Kouga Ninja Scrolls.

Since Onmyo-za is a metal band, you’ll need both heaviness and technical skill in the sound.

Performing metal or anime songs at a school festival is quite a challenge, but it will become a great memory once it’s over.

Dead EndHiran

[Official Video] Faylan – Dead END – Faylan

This song was used as the opening theme for the anime Mirai Nikki (Future Diary).

It’s a cool track with a heavy sound.

With its hard rock flavor, it’s likely to appeal to middle-aged and older men as well.

Not only the guitar but also the drums and bass stand out, making it perfect for live performances on stage.

New EraAdo

[Ado] New Genesis (Uta from ONE PIECE FILM RED)

Since her debut, singer Ado has been rapidly expanding her popularity.

“New Genesis,” her tenth digital-only single written as the theme song for the animated film ONE PIECE FILM RED, is a mega-hit that topped music charts both in Japan and abroad.

While no section requires particularly difficult techniques, making it approachable to try, the song is strongly associated with a powerful, impactful vocal image—so be sure to practice not only the notes but also your expressiveness.

With its catchy melodies and ensemble, it’s a pop tune that will energize any school festival stage.

Definitely give it a try!

Say My NameHEY-SMITH

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

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.

GOLDPEOPLE 1

TV anime “Ranking of Kings: The Treasure Chest of Courage” PEOPLE 1 “GOLD” opening non-credit footage

GOLD, performed by the rock band PEOPLE1, was used as the opening theme for the TV anime Ranking of Kings: The Treasure Chest of Courage.

Its lyrics, which feel like a gentle whisper, echo the story of the protagonist—who cannot hear or speak—setting off on an adventure after gaining a true friend.

The exhilarating melody is sure to spark your spirit of adventure! It’s a song that energizes you and moves you to tears—why not experience it together with the anime?

bad fool logicUNISON SQUARE GARDEN

UNISON SQUARE GARDEN “Ikkenai Fool Logic” MV

UNISON SQUARE GARDEN is a rock band known for creating numerous anime theme songs.

Their 2023 release “Ikenai fool logic” was selected as the opening theme for the anime Ron Kamonohashi: Deranged Detective.

The song perfectly matches the story, which focuses on the relationship between a protagonist aspiring to be a detective and a police officer.

With a jazzy band sound enhanced by a dazzling brass section, Kosuke Saito’s versatile vocals unfold dynamically.

It’s a pop number overflowing with a worldview that depicts friends and companions joining forces and pushing forward toward the future.

Youth LineIkimonogakari

Youthful Line♪ Ikimonogakari YOKOHAMA STADIUM 2011

Ikimono-gakari is a two-member band that launched activities under a new structure in 2021, and each member’s individual work is also drawing attention.

Their 6th single “Seishun Line,” released as a double A-side with “Natsuzora Graffiti,” was used as the opening theme for the TV anime Big Windup! The lyrics, packed with encouragement for those giving it their all, are perfect for a festival celebrating students sprinting through their youth.

With its refreshing melody and beat, this pop, upbeat tune will light up any event.