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)
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!
Cry BabyOfficial HIGE DANDism
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.
Including global smash hits! Anime songs Gen Z should check out (31–40)
BelieveNami Tamaki
This is the memorable debut single by Nami Tamaki, who made her debut in 2003 at the young age of 15.
The song was selected as the opening theme for the third cour of the TV anime Mobile Suit Gundam SEED and made a striking debut by reaching as high as No.
5 on the Oricon Weekly Chart.
Its fast-paced, trance-influenced J-pop sound blends perfectly with Tamaki’s powerful vocals, and as an anthem about maintaining hope even in the midst of battle, it has continued to be beloved by many fans.
It’s a song that gives you a push forward when you need the courage to believe in yourself and move ahead.
HALONOMELON NOLEMON
This is an anisong that layers a danceable beat with a beautiful melody line.
Created by NOMELON NOLEMON and released in May 2025, it was written as an insert song for the TV anime Mobile Suit Gundam GQuuuuuuX.
Following Midnight Reflection and Kienai, it is the third insert song for the same series.
Its hope-filled lyrics leave a strong impression, and by the time it ends, your heart will feel gently warmed.
Listening to it together with your partner may help you reaffirm the importance of love.
Dan Dan Kokoro HikaretekuFIELD OF VIEW
This song is characterized by its refreshing melody and lyrics that gradually intensify the feeling of being in love.
Captivated by the other person’s smile, it conveys a positive determination to break free from the darkness and the courage to embark on a new adventure.
Released in March 1996 by FIELD OF VIEW, the track features a powerful performance by the band and emotive vocals in perfect harmony, and it also drew attention as the opening theme for the anime Dragon Ball GT.
With heartwarming lyrics by Izumi Sakai and a memorable melodic line by Tetsurō Oda, this is a highly recommended song for those who want to relate to the feelings of being in love or look back on memories of their youth.
MONTAGEKento Nakajima
I’m drawn to its grand sense of scale and refined sound.
“MONTAGE” was released in May 2025 and was chosen as the opening theme for the TV anime “The After-Dinner Mysteries.” The composition is by Hiroyuki Sawano, known for works like “Attack on Titan” and “Mobile Suit Gundam.” The fusion of a mysterious atmosphere with a danceable rhythm is striking, and Kento Nakajima’s expressively rich vocals are another highlight.
The thrilling melody that echoes the anime’s story is superb as well.
Be sure to listen closely and immerse yourself in its world.
Angel and DemonGRe4N BOYZ
A grand, dramatic pop tune that accelerates all at once from a quiet intro of just piano and vocals.
Created by GRe4N BOYZ, it was selected as the opening theme for the TV anime ONE PIECE.
Energetic developments woven with an ethnic flair blend seamlessly with their signature, pleasing harmonies.
With its passionate message and meticulously crafted sound arrangement that grabs the heart, this is a song you should definitely listen to when you want to feel positive.