Listen More! A Collection of Hidden Gems in Anime Songs

Return to the Earth ~on the Earth~KOTOKO

TV anime “Starship Operators” ending sequence (Returning to the Earth ~on the earth~ / KOTOKO) [NBCUniversal Anime × Music 30th Anniversary Daily OP/ED Posting Project]

The ballad by KOTOKO that plays as the ending theme of the anime “Starship Operators” leaves a strong impression with lyrics interweaving love and bittersweet longing.

It portrays someone etching past pain and the passage of time into their memory, and learning kindness from those experiences.

The message—that small worries and tears turn into memories and encourage growth—resonated with many listeners.

Released on February 23, 2005 alongside the single “radiance,” the song reached a peak position of 19 on the Oricon chart.

It’s a track for everyone facing life’s hardships and striving to overcome them.

Take this! Telepathy!Maharajan

Maharajan – Take This! Telepathy [TV Anime Tomo-chan Is a Girl! Anime PV]

Singer-songwriter Maharajan, known for his distinctive look of a suit paired with a turban, has written his first-ever anime theme song: “Kurae! Telepathy,” the opening theme for the anime Tomo-chan Is a Girl! Its driving beat and catchy melody create a refreshing sound.

Midway through the track, there’s also a chiptune-like synth section that really evokes the feel of “telepathy.” In addition to a music video produced in an ’80s anime style, there’s also a collaboration version with Tomo-chan Is a Girl!, so if you’re interested, be sure to check out both!

calendrierAki Okui

Dusk Maiden of Amnesia ED – Aki Okui – Calendrier (Chinese and Japanese Subtitles)

This piece was used as the ending theme for the TV anime Dusk Maiden of Amnesia and was released as a single in 2012.

Aki Okui’s delicate vocals convey both the yearning and the anguish for someone you can’t touch but love from the bottom of your heart.

The lyrics explore the depth of love and bonds, etching unforgettable emotion into the listener’s heart after just one listen.

This bittersweet yet beautiful song is especially recommended for quiet nights alone, when you find yourself reminiscing about the past or wanting to touch the feelings hidden in your heart.

absolute zeroNatori

Natori – Absolute Zero

A track that stirs the heart—a coming-of-age drama painted with a fast-paced rock sound.

It captures the fiery determination of young people who, together with their trusted friends, face hardships and carve out a future from zero.

Riding on energetic guitar riffs and a rhythmic drum beat, Natori’s passionate vocals resound with power.

Chosen as the opening theme for the TV anime WIND BREAKER, which began airing in April 2024, the song enriches the series’ world.

It’s a supportive anthem that gently pushes forward everyone who, with burning resolve in their hearts, chooses to look ahead and keep moving.

Thank you!!HOME MADE Family

HOME MADE Kazoku 'Thank You!!'

This track showed an even more meteoric rise than fhána, who were suddenly tapped for an ending theme.

When it was released in March 2005, HOME MADE Kazoku was selected for the ending theme of the anime BLEACH.

The melody is an easy-to-listen-to pop tune with a hip-hop flair and no rough edges, and its bright mood is sure to lift your spirits! The lyrics, filled with gratitude, are easy for anyone to relate to and will add color to everyday life.

It also meshes well with the world of BLEACH, giving off a distinctive charm.

When you listen, it’s a song you’ll want to enjoy for the synergy it creates with the TV Tokyo–aired anime.

You are not aloneDEEN

DEEN – You're Not Alone

This work by DEEN captivates a wide range of generations, from children to adults, and never lets go.

With its warm melody and lyrics filled with a positive message, it overflows with a charm that gives courage to everyone.

Released in April 1996, it was used as the first ending theme for the Fuji TV anime Dragon Ball GT, leaving a lasting impression on many people.

It is also included on the albums I wish and Mariage, making it enjoyable in various contexts.

It’s a song that gives you the strength to live, the kind that lifts your spirits when you’re feeling down.

You’ll definitely want to add it to your karaoke repertoire!

lives remainingI wish it could stay midnight forever.

ZUTOMAYO - “Time Left” Music Video (‘Zanki’)

Zutomayo’s “Zanki,” which unfolds from a captivating intro, is—just as its title suggests—a track with an addictive pull that makes you want to replay it over and over.

The thrilling slapped-bass phrases are especially striking, instantly drawing listeners into the song’s world.

Released on October 19, 2022, it gained attention as one of the ending themes for the anime Chainsaw Man.

ACAne’s distinctive word choices and rhythmic vocals are perfect for those times when you want to forget the clamor of everyday life and immerse yourself in music.

Framed in the language of video games, the lyrics powerfully sing about the importance of moving forward without fear of failure, brimming with the energy to keep you facing ahead in any moment.