[Anison Singer] A roundup of popular anime song vocalists

ImperfectMasayoshi Oishi

Masayoshi Oishi – Imperfect [Official Video]

The name he uses when performing as an anisong singer is the stage name of Masayoshi Oishi, who is active as a singer-songwriter.

He made his major debut in 1999 as a member of the three-piece band Sound Schedule.

In his solo career, he has earned high praise not only for singing anime songs but also as an anime song creator for his lyric writing and composition.

His soaring yet gentle high-tone voice showcases his exceptional vocal ability and expressive power.

In 2021, prompted by an appearance in the omnibus drama “The World of the Strange” (Yonimo Kimyōna Monogatari), he also began working as an actor.

He is an artist expected to continue pursuing a wide range of activities.

SignNEW!KOHSHI（FLOW）

FLOW – Sign / THE FIRST TAKE

FLOW, globally popular for anime theme songs like “GO!!!,” “COLORS,” and “DAYS,” is a central presence as a “border-crossing live band” that has performed in 19 countries overseas.

KOHSHI, the twin vocalist known for his sunglasses, balances excellently with KEIGO, who sings the main melody.

He plays a very important role by providing lower harmonies, delivering rap-like rhythms, and adding momentum in the chorus.

When I first listened to FLOW, I thought KOHSHI’s voice was so cool and manly—‘If I could sing with a voice like that, it would be awesome!’ I also went to the 2024 FLOW theme-song live event “Anison Festival,” and their voices were truly straight and unwavering, just like a studio recording! I’ve come to love FLOW’s character as people too, so if you like anime songs, I definitely recommend going to their live shows.

forget-me-notReoNa

ReoNa 『forget-me-not』-Music Video YouTube EDIT ver.-

A female singer who performs under the catchphrase “Despair-type Anisong Singer.” Since becoming a finalist in the 2017 SACRA MUSIC Audition, her vocals have drawn attention—such as the mini-album released under the name Kanzaki Elsa starring ReoNa, an in-anime artist from the TV anime Sword Art Online Alternative: Gun Gale Online, which reached No.

8 on the Oricon charts.

Songs built on her own experiences, with the concept of “music that stays close to you in times of despair,” match her clear voice that retains a hint of innocence, creating a uniquely atmospheric presence.

She’s a promising singer who seems poised to reveal even more new worlds going forward.

IGNITEEir Aoi

Eir Aoi “IGNITE” MV (Short Ver.)

A female singer who grew up in a music-loving family and began performing early, playing guitar in a band during high school.

While known as an anisong singer, she electrifies audiences at live shows with headbanging, jumping, and other rock band–style performances.

Her powerful yet crystalline voice pairs well with rock sounds and really lifts listeners’ spirits.

Although she temporarily suspended activities in 2016 due to health issues, she made a comeback and held her first post-return tour at the Nippon Budokan in 2018, and she continues to be active today.

Northern CrossMay’n

May’n – Northern Cross (english subtitles)

A female singer who began taking full-fledged auditions in elementary school and made her major debut in high school under her real name, Mei Nakabayashi.

Aiming since childhood to be an artist who can both sing and dance, she rose to wide recognition as a new-generation female anime song singer after the success of tracks such as “Diamond Crevasse,” released under the name Sheryl Nome starring May’n for the TV anime Macross Frontier.

Her high expressive ability and vocal power evoke the world of each song and draw listeners in.

Since 2018, she has also been active as a stage actress, showcasing her multifaceted artistic sensibilities.

ETERNAL BLAZENana Mizuki

Nana Mizuki “ETERNAL BLAZE” (NANA MIZUKI LIVE CIRCUS 2013 at Seibu Dome)

A female singer from Ehime Prefecture who also boasts top-tier talent as a narrator and voice actor.

Entrusted with her father’s dream of becoming an enka singer, she underwent rigorous early training—vocals, piano, and Electone to hone her ear, as well as calligraphy so she wouldn’t be at a loss when asked for autographs.

As a result of this intensive education, she was even known locally as a “Nodojiman contest raider.” Despite that background, her charming personality has won her a broad fanbase beyond anime enthusiasts, and coupled with her powerful vocal ability, she is a musician who thrives beyond the confines of the anisong singer category.

Interstellar FlightMegumi Nakajima

Daytime flight

A female singer who also made her voice acting debut after being selected from 5,000 applicants in an audition to choose the heroine for a new Macross series.

She initially performed both as a voice actress and singer in Macross Frontier as Ranka Lee, but starting in 2009 she began activities under her own name and expanded her career as a singer.

Her distinctive voice—combining power and cuteness as heard in her signature song “Seikan Hikou”—captivated a wide range of listeners, including anime fans.

She is a singer whose future success is anticipated both as a voice actress and as a performer.