[2025] A Compilation of Western Songs Used in Japanese Anime

Distant DreamerDuffy

[Japanese-to-English Translation] Duffy – Distant Dreamer | Anime “JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure: Stone Ocean” Ending Theme

Welsh artist Duffy’s “Distant Dreamer” is a song that reflects a longing for freedom and the strong resolve of a dream-chaser.

Included on her 2008 album Rockferry, the track was also used as the ending theme for JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure: Stone Ocean.

Its lyrics portray an inner struggle—facing reality while wishing for the best circumstances, and never abandoning hope for one’s dreams.

Perfectly capturing Jolyne Cujoh’s hidden strength and conflicts, the song saw a sharp rise in streams in Japan with the anime’s 2021 debut, cementing its popularity among fans.

Offering the courage to gain the strength to overcome any hardship, this piece is especially recommended for those pursuing their dreams!

Baby IAriana Grande

Ariana Grande – Baby I (Official Video)

“Baby I,” included on Ariana Grande’s 2013 debut album Yours Truly and still beloved by many listeners today, conveys an indescribably strong love for someone special, carried by a swaying beat.

At the same time, its polished production is pleasantly smooth, and its ’90s-style sound is irresistible.

Known for her deep love of Tamagotchi, Grande even released a newly arranged version in 2014 as the ending theme for GO-GO Tamagotchi!.

It’s a perfect track not only for fans of love songs, but also for younger generations of anime fans.

ShiverLucy Rose

Lucy Rose – Shiver

Lucy Rose’s song “Shiver” is a moving piece that captures the delicate emotional nuances of complex, fragile human relationships.

Chosen as the opening theme for the 2014 anime Mushishi: The Next Chapter, it features Rose’s delicate vocals that resonate deeply with listeners and lyrics that explore universal themes of love, vulnerability, and the fear of losing someone dear.

The song’s narrator looks back on a fading relationship, tormented by its impending end despite the deep love they share.

It portrays a bond that, despite efforts to sustain it, ultimately shatters—expressing a poignant conflict between lingering attachment to the past and the reality of the present.

The synergy with the anime is outstanding, leaving a lasting echo in viewers’ hearts.

Whether you’re new to Rose’s music or a fan of the anime, this is a work I highly recommend.

The Perfect WorldMarty Friedman feat. Jean-Ken Johnny, KenKen

B The Beginning End Theme – The Perfect World by Marty Friedman Lyrics

It is the theme song of the anime “B: The Beginning,” produced by Netflix.

It’s a track created through a collaboration between Marty Friedman—famous as a former guitarist of Megadeth—and a well-known Japanese pop artist.

Abyss (from Kaiju No. 8)Yungblud

YUNGBLUD – Abyss (from Kaiju No. 8) [Official Visualizer]

YUNGBLUD’s new track, steeped in a dark, powerful atmosphere, was unveiled as the opening theme for the much-discussed Japanese anime Kaiju No.

8, which premiered in April 2024.

The song, which explores struggles with inner darkness and a yearning for salvation, stands out with its commanding vocals and a melody tinged with melancholy.

It speaks to the universal human experience of battling personal demons and trying to find light at the brink of despair.

YUNGBLUD has said that the track signals a new musical direction for him, aligning with his artistic vision.

It’s a highly recommended song for those grappling with deep despair or loneliness, or anyone seeking to confront themselves.

Fine On The OutsidePriscilla Ahn

[Japan Tour Confirmed] Fine On The Outside / Priscilla Ahn — Theme song of Studio Ghibli’s film “When Marnie Was There”

The American singer-songwriter Priscilla Ahn’s song, created in 2005, drew attention when it was chosen as the theme song for Studio Ghibli’s film “When Marnie Was There.” The lyrics, which strikingly contrast inner loneliness with an outward show of strength, delicately portray the feelings of her girlhood, when she had few friends and carried a sense of solitude.

Released as a single in July 2014, the song resonated with many viewers as it played over the film’s ending.

The track is characterized by Ahn’s clear, transparent vocals and simple acoustic guitar accompaniment, making it a recommended listen for anyone who has experienced loneliness or wants to spend some quiet time.

I’m ALIVE!Becca

Becca – I’m Alive

The pop-punk world of BECCA’s “I’m ALIVE!” meshes perfectly with the striking atmosphere of the anime Black Butler set in Victorian London! This track is a single from BECCA’s 2008 debut album Alive!!, and the fact that it was chosen as the anime’s ending theme likely owes to its catchy, powerful melody and lyrics that brighten the series’ dark, gothic mood.

The lyrics mirror the protagonist’s mindset—struggling yet daring to live—beautifully capturing the sensitivity that wavers between toughness and vulnerability.

Remarkably, BECCA was only 17 at the time, yet you can already sense her musical instincts and talent.

It’s a recommended empowerment anthem for everyone who keeps living strongly in the face of hardship.