Including global smash hits! Anime songs recommended for Gen Z
In the past, anime songs were often closely tied to the content of their shows and felt somewhat distinct from mainstream J-pop.
In the Heisei era, however, famous artists’ tracks began to be used, and songs written specifically for anime by those artists even became massive hits.
As a result, the nature and reputation of anime songs changed significantly.
This time, we’re introducing anime songs recommended for Gen Z—those who likely spent their childhood or teen years during that era.
From nostalgic tunes to global mega-hits, enjoy the selection!
Global smash hits, too! Anime songs recommended for Gen Z (1–10)
Revolutionary Journey – On the WayAina ji Endo
This song, created as the opening theme for Season 2 of the TV anime Dandadan, was written and composed by Aina the End.
It will be released digitally in July 2025, followed by physical releases in two formats—CD and Blu-ray—in September.
Its exhilarating sound layers with a mysterious melody, conveying the protagonists’ determination to fight to protect what’s precious to them in a straightforward way.
As Aina herself says, she “reduced the distortion in her voice and sang straightforwardly,” resulting in a clear and powerful vocal performance.
It perfectly matches the anime’s worldview, where the occult and youth intersect.
It’s a track we recommend when you want to keep moving forward or need a push on your back.
Blue HabitatKitanitatsuya
Tatsuya Kitani is a singer-songwriter also known as a long-time support member since the early days of Yorushika.
This work was selected as the opening theme for the TV anime Jujutsu Kaisen: Hidden Inventory/Premature Death.
With lyrics themed around farewells in youth and lost time, it’s sure to resonate deeply with listeners.
Released in July 2023, the song received high acclaim, reaching No.
2 on the Billboard Japan Hot 100 weekly chart.
It’s a must-hear rock tune, woven from a powerful ensemble and Kitani’s soaring vocals.
My Past Life, Many Lifetimes AgoRADWIMPS
A song by the four-piece rock band RADWIMPS, written as an insert track for the record-breaking hit animated film Your Name.
With lyrics themed around the bond between lovers across time and its exhilarating rock sound, the song spread RADWIMPS’ name to a wide range of listeners alongside the film’s popularity.
Released in July 2016, it spent eight consecutive weeks in the Billboard JAPAN Hot 100 top 10 and claimed its first solo No.
1 on the chart dated October 3.
As a track that symbolizes a film that became a social phenomenon, everyone knows it, and it always gets the crowd going at karaoke.
It’s a song about a fateful encounter and eternal love, perfect for a big sing-along in the chorus.
kaiju (giant monster)Sakanakushon
This is Sakanaction’s first anime tie-in song, depicting the passion and struggles of those who pursue truth.
Released in February 2025, it was chosen as the opening theme for NHK General’s “Chi: On the Movements of the Earth.” Deeply connected to the anime’s worldview, which focuses on people attempting to prove the heliocentric theory, the lyrics convey a strong will to keep seeking the truth even in darkness.
Sakanaction’s unique sound—a fusion of electronica and rock—evokes curiosity and a forward-looking mindset.
It’s a must-listen for anyone who wants to experience that sensation of having your own common sense overturned when you encounter new knowledge.
Crimson Lotus FlowerLiSA
This is the 15th single by female singer LiSA, which achieved explosive popularity as the theme song for the TV anime Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba.
Released on CD in July 2019, it became a massive hit that could be called a social phenomenon.
The contrast between the intense rock sound of the A melody and chorus, and the calm section in the B melody, creates exquisite dynamics that maximize the impact of the chorus.
A catchy melody rides over a simple chord progression, and LiSA’s powerful yet delicate vocals further enhance the song’s appeal.
It’s a highly recommended track not only for anime fans but also for rock enthusiasts.
Promise of SunflowersHata Motohiro
Singer-songwriter Motohiro Hata, known for his gentle vocals and endearing persona, has won listeners across a wide range of demographics.
This work is his 17th single, written specifically for a 3DCG animated film.
The lyrics, which express empathy for others and mutual support, resonated with many people.
Since its 2014 release, it has achieved an unusually long run as an anime song, including reaching No.
1 on the iTunes charts.
It’s a recommended track for moments when you want to reaffirm your bonds with someone important or liven up a karaoke session.
KICKBACKYonezu Kenshi
Kenshi Yonezu, a singer-songwriter whose cutting-edge sensibilities have produced hit after hit and who’s now indispensable when discussing the modern J-pop scene.
His 13th single, written as the opening theme for the TV anime Chainsaw Man, is striking for the mounting tension from its breakbeat intro and its dizzyingly fast-changing arrangement.
The music video, featuring weight training and parkour, also drew attention.
Released in October 2022, the track feels closely linked to the anime’s world and story.
It’s a modern rock tune that lifts your spirits on those mornings when your feet just won’t move.