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)
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.
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!
Including global smash hits! Anime songs Gen Z should check out (31–40)
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.
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.
Magic Hour&TEAM
Magic Hour is a youthful pop song that blends poignancy with power.
It serves as the opening theme for the TV anime Honey Lemon Soda and was released in January 2025.
Titled after the beautiful moments of the sky around sunset and just before sunrise, its melody strikingly symbolizes a special time.
The way the arrangement shifts toward the latter half seems to reflect the protagonist’s growth.
It’s a perfect pairing with the anime, and also recommended for anyone who wants to reminisce about their youth.
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?
OtonokeCreepy Nuts
A captivating track that weaves a mysterious world of sound and the supernatural.
Its striking, innovative expression links the way music sinks deep into the human heart with the occult and paranormal.
Released in October 2024 as the opening theme for the TV anime Dandadan, it brilliantly captures the show’s atmosphere.
While rooted in Creepy Nuts’ signature hip-hop, the track’s eerie, lingering sound leaves a strong impression.
Earning high acclaim—including reaching No.
1 on the Billboard Japan Hot 100—it has garnered support from anime fans and listeners overseas alike.
With its driving beat and singular worldview, it’s a perfect fit for music fans seeking a mysterious experience.