Including global smash hits! Anime songs recommended for Gen Z
In the past, anime songs were often closely tied to the content of their shows and felt somewhat distinct from mainstream J-pop.
In the Heisei era, however, famous artists’ tracks began to be used, and songs written specifically for anime by those artists even became massive hits.
As a result, the nature and reputation of anime songs changed significantly.
This time, we’re introducing anime songs recommended for Gen Z—those who likely spent their childhood or teen years during that era.
From nostalgic tunes to global mega-hits, enjoy the selection!
- Recommended anime theme songs for children: timeless anime song classics you should listen to at least once.
- Only famous artists! Anime songs that energize the Reiwa era
- Anisongs that were hits in the 2000s: a nostalgic collection of legendary tracks
- [2025] Recommended Anime Songs for Middle School Students: Theme Songs and Insert Songs from Popular Anime
- Anime songs that were hits in the 1990s. Recommended masterpieces and popular tracks.
- [Nostalgic] Classic and Popular Anime Songs Recommended for People in Their 30s
- Recommended anime songs for people in their 50s. Classic and popular anime theme songs.
- [Popular] A compilation of anime songs that were hits in 2020
- Iconic scenes overlap! Anime songs recommended for the yutori generation
- Great anime songs that colored the Heisei era
- Anime songs recommended for people in their 40s, from nostalgic classics to the latest hits.
- Anime songs recommended for people in their 60s: from nostalgic classics to the latest hits
- [Cute] A Collection of Popular and Famous Anime-Style Songs [J-Pop]
Including global smash hits! Anime songs recommended for Gen Z (21–30)
Angel and DemonGRe4N BOYZ
A grand, dramatic pop tune that accelerates all at once from a quiet intro of just piano and vocals.
Created by GRe4N BOYZ, it was selected as the opening theme for the TV anime ONE PIECE.
Energetic developments woven with an ethnic flair blend seamlessly with their signature, pleasing harmonies.
With its passionate message and meticulously crafted sound arrangement that grabs the heart, this is a song you should definitely listen to when you want to feel positive.
SketchAimyon
It’s a work filled with gentle thoughtfulness, as if lovingly capturing each and every moment of everyday life that meets the eye.
Released by Aimyon in March 2025, this gem was created as the theme song for “Doraemon the Movie: Nobita’s Picture-World Story.” The lyrics depict everyday scenes brimming with kindness and warmth, vividly bringing to mind the friendship between Nobita and Doraemon.
It’s perfect for anyone who wants to experience a heartwarming melody and lyrics rich in imagery.
Including global smash hits! Anime songs Gen Z should check out (31–40)
lilacMrs. GREEN APPLE
This song features a gentle, enveloping melody and lyrics that resonate deeply, capturing the sparkle of youth.
The page of adolescence depicted by Mrs.
GREEN APPLE carefully weaves together the anxiety, loneliness, and hope that everyone experiences.
Its sound balances nostalgia with freshness, giving you the courage to face bittersweet memories.
Chosen as the opening theme for the TV Tokyo anime “Oblivion Battery,” which began airing in April 2024, it went on to win the Grand Prize at the 66th Japan Record Awards.
This track is perfect for performing at school festivals or singing at karaoke.
Its catchy melody and refreshing vocals will help create lasting memories with your classmates.
child of the devilAi Higuchi
Ai Higuchi created the ending theme for the TV anime Attack on Titan, which carries a grand message depicting the cruelty of the world and the contradictions of humanity.
The song delves deeply into the blurred boundary between justice and evil that emerges in the extreme state of war, as well as the complexities of human psychology, all powerfully expressed through her dramatic alto voice.
Released digitally in January 2022, it was included on her March 2022 album Saiaku Saiai (Worst, Beloved).
It has resonated across borders, topping Apple Music’s J-Pop charts in 120 countries.
This is a recommended track for those who want to reflect on choices and justice in life, or experience an epic story through music.
MONTAGEKento Nakajima
I’m drawn to its grand sense of scale and refined sound.
“MONTAGE” was released in May 2025 and was chosen as the opening theme for the TV anime “The After-Dinner Mysteries.” The composition is by Hiroyuki Sawano, known for works like “Attack on Titan” and “Mobile Suit Gundam.” The fusion of a mysterious atmosphere with a danceable rhythm is striking, and Kento Nakajima’s expressively rich vocals are another highlight.
The thrilling melody that echoes the anime’s story is superb as well.
Be sure to listen closely and immerse yourself in its world.
Azure WaltzEVE
A magnificent and graceful waltz in 3/4 time that resonates in the heart—one of Eve’s masterpieces.
Released in December 2020 as the theme song for the animated film “Josee, the Tiger and the Fish,” this gem of a ballad delicately portrays the days of youth where immaturity, hope, and anxiety intersect, beautifully expressing nostalgia for the past and longing for the future.
The majestic resonance of the strings and the gentle melodic lines add depth to the film’s moving scenes.
The song is included on the album “Kaikai Kitan/Ao no Waltz” and reached No.
3 on the Oricon Weekly Chart.
It’s a highly recommended track for those who want to feel the bittersweetness of adolescence and the joy of growing up, or who are seeking heartwarming film music.
Dan Dan Kokoro HikaretekuFIELD OF VIEW
This song is characterized by its refreshing melody and lyrics that gradually intensify the feeling of being in love.
Captivated by the other person’s smile, it conveys a positive determination to break free from the darkness and the courage to embark on a new adventure.
Released in March 1996 by FIELD OF VIEW, the track features a powerful performance by the band and emotive vocals in perfect harmony, and it also drew attention as the opening theme for the anime Dragon Ball GT.
With heartwarming lyrics by Izumi Sakai and a memorable melodic line by Tetsurō Oda, this is a highly recommended song for those who want to relate to the feelings of being in love or look back on memories of their youth.