Including global smash hits! Anime songs recommended for Gen Z

Crimson Lotus FlowerLiSA

LiSA “Gurenge” -MUSiC CLiP- (Anime “Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba” Tanjiro Kamado: Unwavering Resolve Arc Opening Theme)

This is the 15th single by female singer LiSA, which achieved explosive popularity as the theme song for the TV anime Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba.

Released on CD in July 2019, it became a massive hit that could be called a social phenomenon.

The contrast between the intense rock sound of the A melody and chorus, and the calm section in the B melody, creates exquisite dynamics that maximize the impact of the chorus.

A catchy melody rides over a simple chord progression, and LiSA’s powerful yet delicate vocals further enhance the song’s appeal.

It’s a highly recommended track not only for anime fans but also for rock enthusiasts.

A Slice of PeachKensuke Ushio

Dandadan | A Slice of Peach | Soundtrack HQ

This is a track that colors the world of the hit anime Dandadan, which depicts intense battles with ghosts and aliens as well as a bittersweet romance.

The music is by Kensuke Ushio, known for works like Chainsaw Man and A Silent Voice.

It’s included on the album Dan Da Dan (Original Series Soundtrack), released in December 2024.

The piece is marked by a heartbeat-like pulsing beat and melodious synth tones that evoke a sense of nostalgia.

Thanks to a sound design that seamlessly blends the thrill of an unpredictable story with the sparkle of the protagonists’ youth, it’s a song that fills you with excitement just by listening.

It’s recommended not only for fans of the story but also for anyone who wants to add some color to their everyday life.

One Last KissHikaru Utada

Hikaru Utada 'One Last Kiss'

A digital-only single by the female singer-songwriter Hikaru Utada, who made a sensational debut at the tender age of 15 and has released numerous major hits since.

The song was written as the theme for the film Evangelion: 3.

0+1.

0 Thrice Upon a Time, released in March 2021.

It features a characteristically rhythmic melody emblematic of Utada’s style, and an outstanding arrangement that gains richness and depth as the track progresses.

Evoking a catharsis that suggests the end of a grand story, it is a piece truly worthy of closing out a work that has captivated fans for many years.

Bling-Bang-Bang-BornCreepy Nuts

Creepy Nuts “Bling-Bang-Bang-Born” × TV Anime “MASHLE: MAGIC AND MUSCLES” Collaboration Music Video #BBBB Dance

A track packed with musicality that pioneers a new frontier in hip-hop and delivers a message of self-affirmation.

Created by Creepy Nuts, this song was released in January 2024 as the opening theme for season 2 of the TV anime “Mashle: MAGIC AND MUSCLES.” Its distinctive sound—showcasing refined rap and DJ techniques—grabs listeners from the first moment.

Notably, it went viral on social media, especially TikTok, where countless videos featured the track.

Dance clips by anime characters drew particular attention and further boosted the song’s popularity.

This piece is highly recommended for anyone who wants to cherish their individuality or take on a new challenge.

1, 2, 3After the Rain

[Pokémon OP] 1・2・3 / After the Rain (Soraru × Mafumafu)

A song by the male duo music unit After the Rain, used as the opening theme for the TV anime Pokémon.

From the very start, it ramps up the excitement, featuring lyrics themed around adventure, growth, and friendship.

Released in December 2019, the track became a major talking point among Pokémon fans and spawned multiple versions.

Thanks to both its recognition as an anime theme and its refreshing, upbeat sound, it’s a surefire crowd-pleaser at karaoke.

Bubble feat.UtaEVE

Bubble feat.Uta – MV Eve

The song specially written as the opening theme for the film “Bubble” is a number marked by Eve’s signature, grand and beautiful worldview and a melody full of exhilarating drive.

Released as a digital single in April 2022, it was also included on the film’s soundtrack in May of the same year.

With lyrics depicting people in a gravity-disrupted Tokyo who use parkour to compete in battle races for essential supplies, it perfectly conveys the film’s theme of the “gravity of the heart.” The lyrics, which express the determination to keep moving forward no matter how difficult the situation, along with the dynamic sound, fit the film’s world perfectly.

It’s a rock tune I’d recommend to anyone who longs for epic stories and adventures.

Promise of SunflowersMotohiro Hata

Motohiro Hata – “Himawari no Yakusoku” Music Video

Singer-songwriter Motohiro Hata, known for his gentle vocals and endearing persona, has won listeners across a wide range of demographics.

This work is his 17th single, written specifically for a 3DCG animated film.

The lyrics, which express empathy for others and mutual support, resonated with many people.

Since its 2014 release, it has achieved an unusually long run as an anime song, including reaching No.

1 on the iTunes charts.

It’s a recommended track for moments when you want to reaffirm your bonds with someone important or liven up a karaoke session.