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Anime BGM compilation: background music and insert songs that color the story

When you watch anime, you hear all kinds of music in addition to the opening and ending themes.

These are what we generally call BGM and insert songs, and I bet many of you love the BGM and insert songs from certain shows—like, “I love the BGM in that series!”

In this article, we’ll introduce recommended tracks from the BGM and insert songs that play within popular anime series.

Many of these tracks are included on each show’s official soundtrack, so if you find something you like, be sure to check out the soundtrack as well.

Anime BGM compilation: background music and insert songs that color the story (1–10)

I want to shout that I love you.BAAD

"Slam Dunk Theme Song" vol. 2 BAAD - 'I Want to Shout That I Love You' sung by Kaname Kawabata (Short Ver.)
I want to shout that I love you.BAAD

It’s a timeless masterpiece etched in my heart along with memories of my nostalgic youth.

Beginning with a fresh morning scene, it portrays the protagonist’s emotions as they waver between friendship and romantic feelings, conveyed through a passionate melody and powerful vocals.

A signature work by BAAD, it was released as a single in December 1993 and used as the first opening theme for the TV anime SLAM DUNK.

In March 2021, it won the Users’ Choice Award at the Heisei Anisong Grand Prize, and it continues to be loved across generations.

With lyrics that explore universal themes such as the frustrations of love and the courage to take a step forward, it’s perfect for moments when you want to indulge in sweet, bittersweet memories of romance.

crazy rainbowTakkī & Tsubasa

This is a song by Tackey & Tsubasa, chosen as the opening theme for Season 8 of the hugely popular anime One Piece.

It drew attention as the first attempt to have an idol group perform an opening for the series.

True to its title, the track is a pop tune that sings of hope for a rainbow-colored, shining future.

Its exciting melody and lyrics that give you the courage to charge toward your dreams leave a strong impression.

Released in November 2006, it reached No.

2 on the Oricon Weekly Singles Chart and won support not only from anime fans but from a wide audience.

It’s a perfect pick for mornings when you need motivation or when you want to push toward your goals.

Listen to this song, and a rainbow is sure to arc across your heart!

Winding RoadMAN WITH A MISSION

An ambitious work that portrays a powerful sprint through life’s twists and turns with lyrics that skillfully interweave English and Japanese.

MAN WITH A MISSION’s signature hard-hitting rap-rock sound blends seamlessly with a grand melody, gripping the listener’s heart.

The track was included on the single “Take Me Under / Winding Road,” released in April 2018, which reached No.

4 on the Oricon Singles Chart.

It was later featured on the album “Chasing the Horizon.” Around the same time, it was selected as the opening theme for Season 1 of the TV anime “Golden Kamuy,” garnering attention as a song perfectly suited to the sweeping story set in Hokkaido at the end of the Meiji era.

This is a song for everyone who keeps moving forward, believing in the dawn despite setbacks and hardships.

Anime BGM Collection: Background Music and Insert Songs that Color the Story (11–20)

silhouetteKANA-BOON

KANA-BOON “Silhouette” Music Video
silhouetteKANA-BOON

This is a song imbued with a message that will be etched in memory forever.

Released by KANA-BOON in November 2014, it became the opening theme for the popular anime Naruto Shippuden and captured the hearts of a wide range of generations.

The melody is fast-paced and striking, with an addictive, catchy quality that makes you want to listen on repeat.

The lyrics tell a moving story about growing while holding on to what’s important, perfectly syncing with the anime’s themes.

Included on the album TIME, it became a popular release that reached No.

4 on the Oricon album chart.

It’s a recommended track not only for young people in their formative years, but for anyone who wants to feel the greatness of continuing to protect what’s precious.

Blooming at nightHoshimachi Suisei

A track colored by a fantastical melody and EDM beats suddenly appeared as the insert song in episode 3 of the TV anime “Mobile Suit Gundam GQuuuuuuX,” captivating viewers.

Suisei Hoshimachi’s transparent, crystalline vocals beautifully capture the world of the series.

Evoking the stillness of night and the beauty of blooming flowers, this piece is perfect for a nighttime drive when you want lingering feelings to stay with you, for moments when you wish to step a little away from everyday life and drift into thought, and of course for fans of the same anime.

impulseB’z

This song, the theme of a beloved national anime even today, captivated the entire country with its upbeat rock melody and powerhouse vocals.

Its impassioned lyrics about love perfectly express a blend of allure and freshness.

By your side.riria.

TV Anime “My Happy Marriage” × Riria. “By Your Side.” Collaboration Movie
By your side.riria.

Gently and warmly expressing the happiness of walking through life with a loved one, this song by Riria was chosen as the opening theme for the TV anime My Happy Marriage.

Feelings and affection for someone precious are delicately portrayed through her tender vocals.

Its soundscape—quiet yet powerful—will add an even more radiant touch to the joyful atmosphere of a wedding.

Wishing for a Cinderella-like happiness, the song seems to speak on behalf of a bride’s blissful heart.

Why not create a moving wedding scene with this track?