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!
- Recommended anime theme songs for children: timeless anime song classics you should listen to at least once.
- Only famous artists! Anime songs that energize the Reiwa era
- Anisongs that were hits in the 2000s: a nostalgic collection of legendary tracks
- Nothing but famous and hit songs! K-pop tracks recommended for Gen Z
- Packed with everything from friendship to romance! Youth anthems recommended for Gen Z
- [2026] Recommended Anisongs for Middle Schoolers: Theme Songs and Insert Songs from Popular Anime
- When you want to hype it up with your peers! Karaoke songs recommended for Gen Z
- Definitely when you want a boost of power! Energetic songs recommended for Gen Z
- Anime songs that were hits in the 1990s. Recommended masterpieces and popular tracks.
- Revival hits driven by social media! Classic Showa-era songs popular with Gen Z
- [Nostalgic] Classic and Popular Anime Songs Recommended for People in Their 30s
- Recommended anime songs for people in their 50s. Classic and popular anime theme songs.
- For those chasing dreams and goals! Support songs recommended for Gen Z
Global smash hits, too! Anime songs recommended for Gen Z (1–10)
Chaos reaches its peakUNISON SQUARE GARDEN
This track captivates with its exhilarating rock sound and meticulous arrangements.
Created by UNISON SQUARE GARDEN, it was selected as the opening theme for the TV anime Blue Lock and released in October 2022 as their 18th single.
In sync with the story’s intense developments, the rapidly shifting structure and catchy melodies weave a distinctive catharsis that leaves a strong impression.
Perfectly matching the anime’s dynamism, the song has earned high praise, including the Creators’ Choice Award for Most Votes.
It’s an uplifting tune I recommend for moments when you want to raise your spirits or recharge your energy.
Promise of SunflowersMotohiro Hata
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.
KICKBACKKenshi Yonezu
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.
Including global smash hits! Anime songs recommended for Gen Z (11–20)
idolYOASOBI
This track is striking for its contrast between hysteric synth sounds and a cute vocal tone.
The rapidly shifting arrangement and intricate melody alone are enough to get you hyped.
Chosen as the opening theme for the TV anime “Oshi no Ko,” the song was produced based on a newly written short story by the anime’s original author.
It’s a high-difficulty number that’s sure to relieve stress if you can nail it at karaoke.
Enjoy this fast-paced pop tune brimming with momentum.
One Last KissHikaru Utada
A digital-only single by the female singer-songwriter Hikaru Utada, who made a sensational debut at the tender age of 15 and has released numerous major hits since.
The song was written as the theme for the film Evangelion: 3.0+1.0 Thrice Upon a Time, released in March 2021.
It features a characteristically rhythmic melody emblematic of Utada’s style, and an outstanding arrangement that gains richness and depth as the track progresses.
Evoking a catharsis that suggests the end of a grand story, it is a piece truly worthy of closing out a work that has captivated fans for many years.
Spring DayAimyon
A song by Aimyon, a female singer-songwriter whose nostalgic, acoustic guitar–based sound has gained popularity especially among younger listeners.
Written as the theme song for the animated film Crayon Shin-chan: Honeymoon Hurricane ~The Lost Hiroshi~, this track features lyrics about family love that are truly soothing.
Released in April 2019 as her seventh major-label single, it garnered widespread acclaim, including Aimyon’s first No.
1 on the Billboard Japan Top Download Songs chart.
Its ensemble, blending a refreshing drive with a floating lightness, seems perfect for brightening a weekend road trip.
A comfortable pop tune with delicate textures, it suits drives with friends as well as with family.
1, 2, 3After the Rain
A song by the male duo music unit After the Rain, used as the opening theme for the TV anime Pokémon.
From the very start, it ramps up the excitement, featuring lyrics themed around adventure, growth, and friendship.
Released in December 2019, the track became a major talking point among Pokémon fans and spawned multiple versions.
Thanks to both its recognition as an anime theme and its refreshing, upbeat sound, it’s a surefire crowd-pleaser at karaoke.