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)
Bling-Bang-Bang-BornCreepy Nuts
A track packed with musicality that pioneers a new frontier in hip-hop and delivers a message of self-affirmation.
Created by Creepy Nuts, this song was released in January 2024 as the opening theme for season 2 of the TV anime “Mashle: MAGIC AND MUSCLES.” Its distinctive sound—showcasing refined rap and DJ techniques—grabs listeners from the first moment.
Notably, it went viral on social media, especially TikTok, where countless videos featured the track.
Dance clips by anime characters drew particular attention and further boosted the song’s popularity.
This piece is highly recommended for anyone who wants to cherish their individuality or take on a new challenge.
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.
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.
Including global smash hits! Anime songs recommended for Gen Z (11–20)
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.
orangeSPYAIR
SPYAIR’s song, written as the theme for the film Haikyu!! The Dumpster Battle, was produced with their new vocalist YOSUKE.
The lyrics, which feel connected to past Haikyu!! theme songs, unfold around the theme of “farewells and reunions.” The message of moving forward into the future without saying goodbye is likened to the taste of bittersweet oranges.
Released in February 2024 as the title track of an EP, it marks their fourth collaboration with the Haikyu!! series.
Blending an emotional melody with a powerful sound, this track is one that gives a push to young people chasing youth and their dreams.
Bubble feat.UtaEVE
The song specially written as the opening theme for the film “Bubble” is a number marked by Eve’s signature, grand and beautiful worldview and a melody full of exhilarating drive.
Released as a digital single in April 2022, it was also included on the film’s soundtrack in May of the same year.
With lyrics depicting people in a gravity-disrupted Tokyo who use parkour to compete in battle races for essential supplies, it perfectly conveys the film’s theme of the “gravity of the heart.” The lyrics, which express the determination to keep moving forward no matter how difficult the situation, along with the dynamic sound, fit the film’s world perfectly.
It’s a rock tune I’d recommend to anyone who longs for epic stories and adventures.