The Tear-Jerking World of Heart-Piercing Anime Songs

Ash and PrayerGEMS COMPANY

GEMS COMPANY “Ash and Prayer” (Anime ‘NieR:Automata Ver1.1a’ Cour 2 Ending Theme) Music Video

It’s a moving number where deep sorrow and hope intersect.

It’s a song by GEMS COMPANY, released in July 2024.

It was also used as the ending theme for Cour 2 of the anime NieR:Automata Ver1.1a.

You’ll be drawn into the world woven by Taro Yoko’s lyrics and Keiichi Okabe’s composition.

The imagery of ash and prayer is striking, and the lyrics about humanity’s sins and atonement really pierce the heart.

The more you know about the NieR story, the more this work will hit you.

It’s great to listen to while watching the anime, of course, but also recommended when you want to sit quietly and face it alone.

Ho-n-to-u-soMe

Tales of Symphonia – United World Opening

This is the opening theme for the OVA Tales of Symphonia The Animation: United World Arc, sung by Me.

Set to an intense sound, it captures the complex human emotions portrayed in the story of Tales of Symphonia.

You can feel the difficulties of human relationships and the powerful feelings that arise in such situations as you listen.

I also recommend belting it out and singing along yourself.

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Beautiful WorldUtada Hikaru

Utada Hikaru「Beautiful World」　Directed by Tsurumaki Kazuya

This song sung by Hikaru Utada is deeply etched in people’s hearts alongside the Evangelion feature films.

Released in August 2007, it was used as the theme song for the movie Evangelion: 1.0 You Are (Not) Alone.

With a pop sound that incorporates mid-tempo house elements, it gives voice to poignant love and a profound prayer.

Utada herself is a fan of Evangelion and reportedly crafted the track with the world of the series in mind.

The lyrics, which reflect the emotions of the anime’s characters, are sure to resonate with listeners.

It’s a moving, tear-jerking song that fills you with a bittersweet feeling.

The world that was transparentHata Motohiro

Motohiro Hata – “The World That Was Transparent” Music Video

This is a heartwarming song crafted by Motohiro Hata as the opening theme for the anime Naruto Shippuden.

Released in August 2010, its sweeping message—reflecting on what has been lost and the resolve to move forward after parting—ties in with the story.

The pop-rock melody, centered on acoustic guitar, is layered with powerful vocals that harmonize beautifully with the anime’s world.

This work is Hata’s 10th single, released in three editions: First Press Limited, Limited Period, and Regular, and it reached No.

13 on the Oricon Weekly Chart.

It’s a song that resonates deeply with those who have experienced parting from someone important or are trying to face events from their past.

Life is Like a BoatRie fu

Rie fu「Life is Like a Boat」Official Music Video

The gentle piano melody and warm acoustic guitar tones seem to softly nestle up to the listener’s heart.

This work by Rie fu is a song that richly expresses the journey of pressing forward with hope alongside someone precious, even as we face rough waves on the voyage called life.

The interplay of English and Japanese in the lyrics is truly beautiful.

Released as a single in September 2004, it captured the hearts of many fans as the very first ending theme for the anime BLEACH.

Give it a listen when you’re feeling a touch nostalgic or when you need the courage to take a new step forward.