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)
TAIDADAzutto mayonaka de ii no ni.
Zutto Mayonaka de Iinoni., a music unit that captivates listeners with their one-of-a-kind worldview, crafted this piece, which was selected as the ending theme for the TV anime Dandadan.
Inspired by the clumsy words of the characters, it’s a song that conveys a quiet, heartwarming sense of happiness—like the kind you feel in a small four-and-a-half-tatami room.
Within a meticulously woven ensemble where funky grooves and rock intertwine, ACA-ne’s delicate yet energetic vocals come alive.
Released in October 2024, the track is included on the mini-album “Koke no Ichinen Kaiba ni Takusu.” It’s the kind of song you’ll want to sink into when you want to savor the tenderness of everyday life that follows an occult uproar.
For this planetSakushi: Kuroda Hideki / Sakkyoku: Kondou Tatsurou / Ensou: Kazami
This song, with a melody reminiscent of a nostalgic TV commercial jingle, was used as an in-anime track for Dandadan.
It delivers a passionate, forward-looking message, like that of a corporate warrior fighting for this planet.
Lyricist Hideki Kuroda and composer Tatsuro Kondo are the duo behind a 1989 commercial song that became a social phenomenon.
In episode 10, which aired in December 2024, the track played as a faux commercial jingle that propelled the story’s momentum.
Combined with the sprightly performance by DaizyStripper’s Kazami, the result is a sound that fuses nostalgia with a contemporary rock feel.
Paired with the anime’s comical scenes, it’s a track that doubles the work’s playful spirit.
Including global smash hits! Anime songs Gen Z should check out (31–40)
BelieveTamaki Nami
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.
CASANOVA POSSEAli
It’s a groove-driven track that blends a variety of elements—rock, funk, hip-hop, and Latin.
It’s a song by the band ALI, slated for release in January 2025, and it’s been selected as the opening theme for the anime Dr.
STONE.
The song carries a message of having the courage to break free from the past and forge your future, and listening to it really sets your heart on fire.
Why not give it a listen and recharge your energy for tomorrow?
Azure WaltzEVE
A magnificent and graceful waltz in 3/4 time that resonates in the heart—one of Eve’s masterpieces.
Released in December 2020 as the theme song for the animated film “Josee, the Tiger and the Fish,” this gem of a ballad delicately portrays the days of youth where immaturity, hope, and anxiety intersect, beautifully expressing nostalgia for the past and longing for the future.
The majestic resonance of the strings and the gentle melodic lines add depth to the film’s moving scenes.
The song is included on the album “Kaikai Kitan/Ao no Waltz” and reached No.
3 on the Oricon Weekly Chart.
It’s a highly recommended track for those who want to feel the bittersweetness of adolescence and the joy of growing up, or who are seeking heartwarming film music.
APT.ROSÉ & Bruno Mars
This ambitious work effectively combines the essences of pop and rock, fusing Korean youth culture with a global sound.
The distinctive vocals of Rosé and Bruno Mars blend beautifully, skillfully conveying the exhilaration of a party and the anticipation of romance.
Released in October 2024, it held the top spot on the Billboard Global 200 for nine consecutive weeks.
In November of the same year, it had its first live performance at the 2024 MAMA Awards held in Osaka, captivating the audience.
With a rhythm that makes you want to move and a chant-like chorus, this track is perfect for dance performances.
If you’re looking to create choreography with friends or seeking a song to present at an event, this is a great pick.