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)
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.
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)
SailingBE:FIRST
This is an ambitious work from BE:FIRST overflowing with upbeat messages and youthful passion.
Its powerful, hope-filled beat, melodies that sing of bonds with friends, and lyrics that convey determination for the future come together beautifully.
Showcasing the distinctive vocals of every member, this piece is sure to be a reassuring anthem for anyone striving toward their dreams.
Starting in November 2024, it was selected as the ending theme for the Fish-Man Island arc of the TV anime ONE PIECE, and in February 2025 it was included on the double A-side single “Spacecraft / Sailing.” It’s a song I especially recommend to those chasing dreams with their friends or about to take a new step forward.
If you’re looking for a motivational song that gives you courage and hope, be sure to check it out.