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
Including global smash hits! Anime songs recommended for Gen Z (11–20)
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.
New EraAdo
Ado, a singer who continues to shock the global music scene.
Written as the theme song for the film ONE PIECE FILM RED, this track drew attention for its lyrics that vividly capture the anime’s world and her overwhelming vocal prowess.
Released in June 2022, it dominated charts at home and abroad, becoming the first Japanese song to reach No.
1 on the Apple Music Global Chart.
Its powerful message of hope for a new era resonates with listeners across generations.
It’s a high-energy anthem perfect for moments when everyone wants to get hyped, like year-end and New Year parties.
mixed nutsOfisharu Higedan Dism
This is the seventh digital single by the four-piece piano pop band Official HIGE DANDism, written as the opening theme for the TV anime SPY x FAMILY.
Released in April 2022, the track kicks off with a jazzy beat and a noisy guitar that instantly amps you up.
The lyrics deftly capture the anime’s central themes of family, love, and hidden truths.
While symbolically depicting complex family dynamics and social prejudice, it conveys the importance of overcoming differences to build bonds.
Its exhilarating arrangement feels perfect for livening up a drive.
A highly addictive uptempo tune where intricate ensemble work meets a catchy pop melody.
The Zero Sense10-FEET
A perfect song to close things out, featuring a powerful rock sound and a message that resonates.
Written specifically for the film THE FIRST SLAM DUNK, it portrays a passion for basketball, bonds with teammates, and the courage to take on challenges.
10-FEET’s characteristically energetic performance pairs perfectly with lyrics about pursuing dreams and ideals, creating a track that gives listeners a push forward.
Released as a digital single in November 2022, it was performed on many music programs.
In December 2023, the band also appeared at the 74th NHK Kōhaku Uta Gassen, drawing a lot of attention.
It’s the perfect song for times when you want to strive toward your dreams or accomplish something together with your friends.
Chu, diversity.ano
After leaving You’ll Melt More!, Ano began working as a solo artist.
The digital-only single released from TOY’S FACTORY in November 2022 was written as the ending theme for episode 7 of the TV anime Chainsaw Man.
Over a technically intricate band sound by Shuichi Manabe, formerly of Soutaiseiriron, Ano’s sweet yet venom-tinged vocals intertwine to create a catchy pop tune.
The lyrics—blending Japanese, Chinese, and English—sublimate a precarious mix of love and dependency into pop.
Sing it with the dance that blew up on TikTok, and it’s guaranteed to light up any karaoke session.
Including global smash hits! Anime songs recommended for Gen Z (21–30)
A Slice of PeachKensuke Ushio
This is a track that colors the world of the hit anime Dandadan, which depicts intense battles with ghosts and aliens as well as a bittersweet romance.
The music is by Kensuke Ushio, known for works like Chainsaw Man and A Silent Voice.
It’s included on the album Dan Da Dan (Original Series Soundtrack), released in December 2024.
The piece is marked by a heartbeat-like pulsing beat and melodious synth tones that evoke a sense of nostalgia.
Thanks to a sound design that seamlessly blends the thrill of an unpredictable story with the sparkle of the protagonists’ youth, it’s a song that fills you with excitement just by listening.
It’s recommended not only for fans of the story but also for anyone who wants to add some color to their everyday life.