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 (21–30)
Zankyo SankaAimer
Released in January 2022 as Aimer’s 20th single, this song was selected as the opening theme for the popular anime Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba – Entertainment District Arc.
It topped the Billboard Japan Hot 100 for nine consecutive weeks, surpassed 200 million streams, and received a Special Award at the Japan Record Awards.
Masahiro Tobinai’s bold arrangement features resplendent brass and strings that brilliantly capture both the opulence of the red-light district and the tension of battle.
The lyrics, imbued with a powerful resolve to overcome past pain and resound into the future, embody the very determination of characters who confront their fate.
Performed even in cheering scenes at Koshien, it’s a song cherished not only by anime fans but also by many listeners running through their youth.
IRIS OUTYonezu Kenshi
This is a song written by Kenshi Yonezu as the theme for the feature film Chainsaw Man: Reze Arc.
It will be released alongside the movie in September 2025.
Following “KICK BACK” from the previous TV anime, this marks his second collaboration with MAPPA.
A memorable behind-the-scenes anecdote is that he supposedly kept the Reze pages from the original manga open all the time, glaring at them as he composed.
The exhilarating sound and powerful rhythm heighten the battles and thrilling developments.
It’s a dramatic track that perfectly matches a world where intense plot twists and complex emotions intersect.
It’s a must-listen not only for anime fans but for anyone drawn to the world of Chainsaw Man.
ignited -Ignited-T.M.Revolution
A powerful number that fuses electronic sounds with hard rock, depicting the resolve and inner conflict of a protagonist swept up by the fate of battle! The heavy sound woven by synthesizers and fierce guitar riffs captures the very tension of an interstellar war.
Released in November 2004, this song was selected as the first opening theme for the TV anime Mobile Suit Gundam SEED DESTINY, and it claimed the top spot on the Oricon Weekly Chart for the first time in about six years.
The lyrics, imbued with a strong will to uphold one’s beliefs on the battlefield and a pure desire to protect the ones you love, are sure to push you forward when you face major life decisions.
flameLiSA
Released in October 2020 as the theme song for the feature film Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba – The Movie: Mugen Train, this piece was composed and arranged by Yuki Kajiura and completed with lyrics co-written with LiSA.
The sweeping ballad mirrors the life and spirit of the central character, Kyojuro Rengoku, portraying parting and hope, and the will that is passed on.
It powerfully sings of the strength to keep moving forward without being swept away by sorrow.
It won the Grand Prize at the 62nd Japan Record Awards and topped the Oricon Weekly Singles Chart for three consecutive weeks, becoming a social phenomenon that transcended the anime-music sphere.
It is a song we hope you’ll listen to if you’ve experienced the loss of someone dear or need courage to face difficulties.
Cry BabyOfisharu Higedan Dism
The opening theme song of the TV anime Tokyo Revengers captivates with its powerful rhythm and skillful key changes.
Just as the protagonist repeatedly travels back in time and keeps fighting to save those he cares about, the song expresses a strong will to keep moving forward despite setbacks throughout.
Released by Official HIGE DANDism in May 2021, it became a massive hit, surpassing 100 million streams and winning Best Video at the MTV Video Music Awards Japan.
Starting in August 2022, it was also featured in a collaborative commercial for DyDo Drinco’s DyDo Blend.
It’s a song that powerfully pushes people forward as they face hardship without giving up.
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.
secret base ~What You Gave Me~ZONE
This is a heartwarming song that leaves an impression with its theme of youthful memories and friendship.
It sings of parting from friends and the hope of reunion, with feelings woven in a secret place carried by a beautiful melody.
ZONE’s charming harmonies and vocals that convey hope even within a sense of melancholy make this a moving piece.
Released as their third single in August 2001, it was used as the theme song for the TBS drama-30 series “Kids War 3: Zakenna yo” and reached No.
2 on the Oricon Weekly Singles Chart.
The song also won the Best New Artist Award at the 34th Japan Cable Awards.
It’s an approachable track for beginners in rock to practice, so definitely give it a try!