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 (41–50)
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.
lilacMrs. GREEN APPLE
This song features a gentle, enveloping melody and lyrics that resonate deeply, capturing the sparkle of youth.
The page of adolescence depicted by Mrs.
GREEN APPLE carefully weaves together the anxiety, loneliness, and hope that everyone experiences.
Its sound balances nostalgia with freshness, giving you the courage to face bittersweet memories.
Chosen as the opening theme for the TV Tokyo anime “Oblivion Battery,” which began airing in April 2024, it went on to win the Grand Prize at the 66th Japan Record Awards.
This track is perfect for performing at school festivals or singing at karaoke.
Its catchy melody and refreshing vocals will help create lasting memories with your classmates.
ReawakeR (feat. Felix of Stray Kids)LiSA
An unconventional collaboration that fuses a powerful rock sound with electronic elements.
LiSA’s soaring vocals and Stray Kids’ Felix’s weighty rap blend in exquisite balance, weaving an epic story themed around rebirth and defying fate.
The dynamic sound crafted by Hiroyuki Sawano makes this a track that gives listeners a strong push forward.
The song has been selected as the opening theme for the TV anime “Solo Leveling Season 2 -Arise from the Shadow-,” airing from January 2025.
Its energetic development and positive message are sure to resonate with those embarking on new challenges or wishing to change themselves.
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.
single-minded; wholehearted; devoted; earnestKing Gnu
This is a King Gnu song characterized by a sound that conveys intense passion and energy.
It portrays pure, powerful love that deeply moves listeners.
Released in December 2021 as the theme song for the film Jujutsu Kaisen 0, it received high acclaim across many music charts.
In December 2022, it ranked first in the Oricon Yearly Combined Singles Ranking for the 55th Annual Rankings.
The lyrics express a resolve to devote everything to a loved one and a determination to overcome suffering.
It’s a recommended track when you want to reaffirm your feelings for someone important or need the courage to face difficulties.
Maximum reachSEKAI NO OWARI
A song infused with a powerful message: “Turn your weakness into strength and soar higher.” SEKAI NO OWARI embraced the world of ONE PIECE and crafted the track with a grand, cinematic arrangement.
Riding on a fast-paced melody, Fukase’s gentle yet strong vocals give listeners a push forward.
Released in September 2023, it’s used as the opening theme for the ONE PIECE anime.
Singing about the importance of continuing to challenge yourself toward your dreams and goals, this song is recommended for moments when you face difficulties or are about to take a new step.
It’s sure to give you courage.
From SHINSEKAIano × ikuta rira
It’s a memorable rock number that weaves together a sense of speed and cuteness.
A collaboration between ano and Lila Ikuta, it was released digitally in November 2024 and chosen as the opening theme for the anime Dead Dead Demon’s Dededede Destruction.
The lyrics and composition were handled by the original creator, Inio Asano.
While depicting a sense of discomfort and loneliness in modern society, the lyrics also suggest a glimmer of hope beyond it.
It may especially resonate with those searching for a place where they belong.
Be sure to give it a careful listen.