Popular anime songs you often hear on YouTube Shorts

Sugar Song and Bitter StepUNISON SQUARE GARDEN

UNISON SQUARE GARDEN “Sugar Song and Bitter Step” MV

A uniquely catchy pop-rock tune with an irresistibly memorable melody and a dash of irony about modern society.

This message song from UNISON SQUARE GARDEN vividly portrays contrasts between sweet and bitter, the subtle discomforts lurking in everyday life, and the tension between individuality and equality.

The more you listen, the more you discover, and its charm will have you humming along again and again.

Released from the album “Ninth Peel,” recorded in May 2015, it was used as the ending theme for the TV anime Blood Blockade Battlefront.

It’s a song we especially recommend to anyone trying to keep moving forward, even while feeling lost amid hectic days.

KICKBACKKenshi Yonezu

Kenshi Yonezu – KICKBACK

A track where the fierce beats woven by electrorock and drum’n’bass unfold into a soundscape brimming with raw energy, pulling in listeners one after another.

Kenshi Yonezu masterfully fuses emotionally stirring sound with lyrics that pierce the heart.

Musically, it portrays a protagonist who, despite grappling with desire and inner conflict, longs to live freely, and it vividly depicts a sense of emptiness through the repetition of plain, matter-of-fact words.

Released in November 2022, this piece was used as the opening theme for the TV anime Chainsaw Man, further amplifying the show’s distinctive worldview.

It expresses emotional highs and lows through music, drawing you into the story with its addictive rhythms and melodies.

Highly recommended for those seeking energetic music.

Run, SAKAMOTOVaundy

Run, SAKAMOTO / Vaundy: Music Video

This is the opening theme for the 2025 anime SAKAMOTO DAYS by Vaundy, a track that captivates with its high-energy sound and powerful vocals.

Recorded in London, the song brilliantly reflects the anime’s world.

The sharp guitar tones and heavy basslines create a sense of exhilarating speed, and together with lyrics that resonate with the story, it leaves an even stronger impression.

With strong themes of friendship and family, it’s the perfect song for a drive or whenever you want to get pumped up.

BOW AND ARROWKenshi Yonezu

BOW AND ARROW

Kenshi Yonezu’s new song, written as the opening theme for the TV anime “Medalist,” is a powerful track that embodies a coming-of-age story set in the world of figure skating.

Through the metaphor of bow and arrow, it portrays protagonists who overcome setbacks and grow, striking a deep chord with listeners.

Since its release in January 2025, it has achieved remarkable records, including topping daily charts on various streaming platforms.

It’s the perfect song for those who want to empathize with the process of overcoming trials and growing, or when you need to rouse your spirit.

PlazmaKenshi Yonezu

Kenshi Yonezu – Plazma

Kenshi Yonezu’s powerful vocals and grand, cinematic compositions blend perfectly, coloring an epic drama set in space.

Themes of “bonds” and “hope” found amid loneliness and conflict are portrayed through his distinctive poetic lyrics and sweeping sound.

Written as the theme song for the theatrical release Mobile Suit Gundam GQuuuuuuX -Beginning- premiering in January 2025, this track marks Yonezu’s first-ever contribution to the Gundam series—a milestone work.

With its dynamic developments intertwined with delicate melodies, it’s perfect for a drive or whenever you want to fire yourself up.

SailingBE:FIRST

BE:FIRST / Sailing -Lyric Video- (「ONE PIECE LOG: FISH-MAN ISLAND SAGA」Ending Theme “Sailing”)

This is an ambitious work from BE:FIRST overflowing with upbeat messages and youthful passion.

Its powerful, hope-filled beat, melodies that sing of bonds with friends, and lyrics that convey determination for the future come together beautifully.

Showcasing the distinctive vocals of every member, this piece is sure to be a reassuring anthem for anyone striving toward their dreams.

Starting in November 2024, it was selected as the ending theme for the Fish-Man Island arc of the TV anime ONE PIECE, and in February 2025 it was included on the double A-side single “Spacecraft / Sailing.” It’s a song I especially recommend to those chasing dreams with their friends or about to take a new step forward.

If you’re looking for a motivational song that gives you courage and hope, be sure to check it out.

UNDEADYOASOBI

YOASOBI “UNDEAD” Official Music Video / Theme song for ‘Monogatari Series: Off & Monster Season’

What matters most is living the present to the fullest—without being bound by the past or halted by fears of the future.

The powerful message conveyed by YOASOBI resonates deeply.

Released in July 2024, this work is based on an original short story written by NISIOISIN.

It drew attention as the theme song for the anime “Monogatari Series: Off & Monster Season.” Its bright, EDM-inspired sound and versatile vocals are captivating.

It’s a song for those who want to live true to themselves and keep looking forward.

On YouTube Shorts, it’s mainly used in dance and cover-singing videos.