Theme songs and insert songs from Slam Dunk through the years, including the theme song from the 2022 film!
Slam Dunk, a nationally beloved manga by Takehiko Inoue, debuted in 1990.
It’s a masterpiece that stands as a landmark in basketball-themed manga and anime!
In this article, we’ll introduce the opening and insert songs from the Slam Dunk anime.
We’ve also highlighted the insert songs from the past theatrical releases and the theme song for THE FIRST SLAM DUNK, which premiered in 2022.
Be sure to listen to these wonderful tracks that bring the world of the series to life!
All-time Slam Dunk theme and insert songs, including the 2022 movie theme! (1–10)
Until the World Ends…WANDS
“Sekai ga Owaru Made wa” was chosen as the ending theme for Season 2 of the anime SLAM DUNK.
Released in 1994 by WANDS, a rock band active since the 1990s, it remains one of the most overwhelmingly popular anime songs.
The lyrics portray someone reflecting on their precious days as they face the end of youth and love.
Its slow-tempo rock sound evokes scenes steeped in nostalgia.
This passionate number has also been used as walk-up/entrance music by professional baseball players and other athletes.
ENDLESS CHAINBAAD
ENDLESS CHAIN, which was used as an insert song in the anime SLAM DUNK, was created by BAAD, a rock band that blazed through the 1990s.
It features a refreshing rock sound that unfolds at a medium tempo.
Its melody gently resonates in the heart, evoking memories of school days—club activities and first loves.
With a straightforward message that vows to love one’s partner no matter what, it’s a song that truly strikes a chord.
Why not listen to it while picturing the iconic scenes from the story where the players pour out their sweat and tears?
LOVE ROCKETSThe Birthday
The opening theme of the 2022 film THE FIRST SLAM DUNK is LOVE ROCKETS, released in 2022 by The Birthday, a band formed around Yusuke Chiba, a leading figure in Japan’s rock scene.
Set to interwoven guitar, bass, and drums, the song sings of passionate love.
Its slightly thrilling sound conveys the momentum of youth and fervor.
With Chiba’s cool vocals, it’s a rock number that brings the film’s characters vividly to mind.
My friendZARD
My Friend, which was selected as the ending theme for the final cour of the anime SLAM DUNK, was released in 1996 by the music unit ZARD, known for their many signature songs.
Carried by a passionate band performance, its expansive melody line resonates.
The lyrics depict a bittersweet feeling of thinking about someone dear, and many listeners may picture the protagonist in the story continuing to run.
It’s a perfect song for scenes where you move past youthful club activities and first love to step onto a new path.
Let yourself be soothed by Izumi Sakai’s clear, transparent vocals.
Get your act together!
It’s a song that feels refreshing, as if you’ve broken free from your worries and the fog before your eyes has lifted.
Just listening to it brings to mind bright scenes to come.
When facing something head-on, it also feels like everyone’s hearts have become one.
The Zero Sense10-FEET
The film THE FIRST SLAM DUNK depicts the nationally beloved basketball manga SLAM DUNK and the one-shot Piercing.
Its ending theme is Dai Zero Kan by the rock band 10-FEET, released in 2022.
The driving rock sound conjures images of the players battling on the court.
The lyrics, which portray friendship among teammates and burning passion, also convey the story.
Paired with their fiery shouts, it’s a track brimming with fighting spirit.
Captivated by a sparkling momentMANISH
The song chosen as the ending theme for season 3 is performed by MANISH, a two-woman unit consisting of vocalist Misuzu Takahashi and keyboardist Mari Nishimoto.
Their popularity soared thanks to a powerful, high-range vocal style reminiscent of Maki Ohguro and their model-like looks.
The lyrics paint vivid scenes, making it easy to visualize as you listen.
The assertive lines—wanting to be absorbed in this very moment and not wanting to have regrets—resonate with people who are striving, so it’s a recommended track for anyone working hard toward their goals.