Popular Western Music Anime Songs Ranking [2025]
When it comes to Western-language anime songs, the first thing that comes to mind is probably Disney.
We’ve put together a collection of popular Western anime songs that appeal to a wide range of ages, from children to adults.
Did your favorite song from that anime make the list?
Popular Western Music Anime Song Rankings [2025] (1–10)
The OneBackstreet Boys8rank/position
This song was used as the opening theme for the Nippon TV anime “Hanada Shonen-shi,” which aired in 2002.
Not just this track, but Backstreet Boys’ songs are hugely popular worldwide, so singing them at karaoke is likely to be well-received, especially in groups that include people in their late 20s and older.
Distant DreamerDuffy9rank/position
It’s an inspiring song that sings of the resolve to chase a distant dream.
Created by Welsh singer-songwriter Duffy, it’s included on her album Rockferry, released in March 2008.
The lyrics, filled with a yearning for freedom and hope, truly resonate.
Set to a laid-back melody, Duffy’s clear, luminous vocals are captivating.
It’s a track that gently supports anyone who wants to keep striving without giving up on their dreams.
It was also used as the ending theme for JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure: Stone Ocean, and its popularity is surging among anime fans.
Recommended for times when you’re feeling down or want to boost your motivation.
Cautionary WarningJohn Sykes10rank/position
It’s a scorching rock number whose solid guitar riff slams in from the very start, making you clench your fist.
The track was crafted by British guitarist John Sykes, who has played with legendary bands like Whitesnake and Thin Lizzy.
This song is included on the album “20th Century,” released in December 1997.
It was later chosen as the opening theme for the 1999 anime “Section Manager Prince,” and you can practically picture the protagonist unleashing his hidden fighting spirit.
You can hear a warning against an approaching fate and a soul’s cry to spur oneself on—just listening to it sends your adrenaline into overdrive!
Popular Western Music Anime Song Rankings [2025] (11–20)
NobodyOneRepublic11rank/position
This is a song whose catchy melody and passionate message really resonate! The track OneRepublic released in April 2024 was written specifically as the ending theme for the anime Kaiju No.
8.
The band’s leader, Ryan Tedder, created it after drawing inspiration in Japan.
With lyrics themed around deep devotion and unconditional love, it links beautifully with the anime’s world.
While it follows the classic path of pop rock, it’s polished in a way that’s distinctly OneRepublic.
Its powerful message—overcoming any hardship together—will surely speak to many listeners.
The Light Before We LandThe Delgados12rank/position
Released in October 2002 by the Scottish indie rock band The Delgados, this song is a masterpiece that sings of courage and hope in the face of life’s hardships.
Its melancholic yet grand sound blends seamlessly with lyrics that explore themes of disappointment, suffering, and self-reflection.
Featured on the album “Hate,” the track garnered high praise from critics, aided by producer Dave Fridmann’s meticulous sound design.
Furthermore, its selection as the opening theme for the Japanese anime “GUNSLINGER GIRL” helped the band expand their fanbase both in Japan and abroad.
Highly recommended as a song that can offer support to those feeling lost or anxious in life.
AbyssYungblud13rank/position
A number by YUNGBLUD, a British singer-songwriter who has won support from today’s youth for his rebellious spirit and diverse musicality.
It was selected as the opening theme for the TV anime Kaiju No.
8.
This track fuses YUNGBLUD’s raw energy with the anthemic power of his co-producer, Dan Reynolds of Imagine Dragons.
The punk-driven impulse and hard rock sound, which slam into the protagonist’s anguish over transformation and fighting spirit, are enough to get your blood pumping just by listening! Released in March 2024, the song is also included on the album Idols.
It’s the kind of track that will give you a push when you want to unleash the emotions you hold inside.
I’m ALIVE!Becca14rank/position
This piece, included on the debut album Alive!! released in 2008, is an energetic rock anthem with a powerful, uplifting theme.
Its lyrics, which explore the meaning of “being alive” and portray a determination to stay true to oneself even in difficult times, deliver a message that resonates with listeners.
Also chosen as the ending theme for the popular Japanese anime Black Butler, the song stands as an important work showcasing Becca’s talent and potential.
Combined with the background that it was written during a tough period, it carries more than just musical value—it embodies her outlook on life and her hopes.
The lyrics, symbolizing the will to live and a vital force, are sure to encourage listeners facing everyday stress and inner conflict.