Masterpieces of poignant anime songs. Recommended popular tracks.
I think it’s quite common that listening to songs tied in with anime makes you recall the work they’re from.
If the story was a sad one, hearing the song can leave you feeling wistful.
Here, I’ve picked out some Japanese pop songs—melancholic anime tracks—that evoke that feeling.
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Masterpieces of heart-wrenching anime songs: Recommended popular tracks (61–70)
TouchYoshimi Iwasaki
Speaking of Yoshimi Iwasaki’s “Touch,” it gained popularity as the theme song for the beloved national baseball anime Touch.
Just like the anime, which portrays bittersweet youth, the theme song preserves that worldview and stands as a poignant coming-of-age song.
Always With MeYumi Kimura
“Itsumo Nando Demo” by Yumi Kimura is, as everyone knows, the theme song of Studio Ghibli’s blockbuster anime Spirited Away.
Its fresh and light tones gently envelop the listener’s heart.
It’s an anime song with a touch of bittersweetness.
cat’s eyesAnri
Speaking of Anri’s “Cat’s Eye,” it’s the theme song of the popular anime Cat’s Eye.
The song was an enormous hit—so much so that it’s no exaggeration to say it became even more popular than the anime itself in a way.
It’s a quintessential anime song that evokes nostalgia with a lingering sense of wistfulness.
Orphan HachiHitomi Ishikawa
When it comes to heartbreaking anime songs, nothing beats this one: Hitomi Ishikawa’s “Minashigo Hatchi.” It’s the opening theme for the well-known and beloved anime “Minashigo Hatch.” I’m sure many people shed tears listening to this song while watching the show.
Dear MotherYoshiko Fujita
Yoshiko Fujita’s song “Hahaue-sama” is a deeply nostalgic anime theme for people in their 40s.
It was beloved as the ending theme of the popular anime Ikkyu-san.
Its lyrics, about writing a letter to a mother far away, are simply heart-wrenching.
A Cruel Angel's ThesisYoko Takahashi
Speaking of Evangelion, it’s a truly legendary anime loved not only in Japan but all around the world.
And just as beloved as the anime itself is the theme song “A Cruel Angel’s Thesis,” sung by Yoko Takahashi.
It’s a famous song that everyone has heard at least once.
Space Battleship YamatoIsao Sasaki
Speaking of Isao Sasaki, he is a legendary figure who has sung numerous anime songs.
Among them, “Space Battleship Yamato” is surely one of the most popular.
His powerful vocals are guaranteed to tug at your heartstrings.