Special Feature: Iconic Songs from Anime | Packed with Great Tracks!

Stars swimmakaroni enpitsu

TV anime “Summer Time Rendering” Non-credit 1st Opening Video [♪ Macaroni Enpitsu ‘The Stars Swim’]

The song created by Macaroni Enpitsu as the opening theme for the TV anime “Summer Time Rendering” is a track that sings of a fleeting yet beautiful story, like fireworks coloring a summer night sky.

From the protagonist’s perspective, it portrays resolve, the grief of losing someone precious, and memories growing distant, all carried by an exhilarating rock sound.

Included on their major-label 2nd EP “Tama-shii no Ibasho” (A Place for the Soul), the song was released digitally in April 2022 and was crafted with the image of summer’s restlessness and a fate that fades like scattered sparks.

Seamlessly harmonizing with the anime’s worldview, it’s a perfect choice for those who want to delve deeper into the story or feel the bittersweet ache of summer.

aporiaYorushika

Anime “Chi: On the Movements of the Earth” Non-Credit Ending Video “Aporia” by Yorushika

This song likens the desire to know—and the confusion that accompanies it—to a balloon voyage.

From the vantage point of a balloon lifting off the ground and striving for greater heights, it expresses curiosity and the joy of discovery through the changing scenery below.

An irregular-meter riff intertwines with the timbre of a mandolin, crafting a distinctive sonic world that conveys both thirst for knowledge and wavering doubt.

Released by Polydor Records in October 2024, it was selected as the ending theme for the NHK General TV anime Chi: On the Movements of the Earth.

Acclaimed as a track that resonates with the anime’s worldview—set in 15th-century Europe and depicting seekers of the heliocentric theory—it comes recommended not only for those interested in science and philosophy, but also for anyone looking for music that sparks intellectual curiosity.

Rondo – revolutionOkui Masami

Masami Okui “Rondo - revolution” | Revolutionary Girl Utena | Opening

Opening with a powerful beat, this song vividly conveys a message of self-transformation and growth, carried by Masami Okui’s resonant vocals.

The protagonist’s strong resolve to overcome a parting with someone dear and carve out their own path is embedded in the memorable melody.

Her commanding voice gives listeners the courage to take that first step forward.

Released in May 1997, the track was used as the opening theme for the TV anime Revolutionary Girl Utena.

It was later included on the album Ma-KING and the acclaimed compilation S-mode #1.

Brimming with hope, this is a dependable song recommended for anyone feeling uncertain or ready to embark on a new beginning.

GarnetOku Hanako

Hanako Oku / Garnet (Solo Performance) [Music Video]

This is a wonderful song that etches each fleeting moment of youth into the heart.

It gently portrays school grounds, after-school scenes, and the everyday moments we tend to overlook, while weaving in feelings for a cherished person, resulting in a tender composition.

Okuda Hanako’s clear, translucent voice warmly sings of memories that never fade with time and emotions that remain unchanged, making this a particularly memorable track.

Released in July 2006 as her fourth single, it was selected as the theme song for the animated feature film The Girl Who Leapt Through Time, peaking at No.

51 on the Oricon charts and staying on the charts for 19 weeks.

Accompanied by a simple piano tone that brings back nostalgic memories, this song is one you’ll want to hear if you’ve experienced parting with someone dear or are about to take a new step forward.

Brave RaideenShimon Masato

Brave Raideen

Set to a march-like midtempo that lifts the spirit, the song—paired with Masato Shimon’s expansive vocals—feels as if it portrays a radiant guardian of the skies soaring through the light.

Its friendly, accessible melody, beloved by children and adults alike, vividly depicts a righteous hero’s bravery, infused with a sense of duty to protect peace and a steadfast resolve to carry the hopes of the people.

Broadcast as the opening theme for a robot anime that began in April 1975, it earned high acclaim as a masterpiece that perfectly captured the show’s worldview.

In November 1980, a soundtrack album was released by Nippon Columbia, and it continues to captivate many fans.

It’s a track that, when played during your morning commute to work or school, makes you feel like the protagonist yourself and gives you the courage to face a brand-new day.

Beautiful WorldUtada Hikaru

Utada Hikaru「Beautiful World」　Directed by Tsurumaki Kazuya

This song sung by Hikaru Utada is deeply etched in people’s hearts alongside the Evangelion feature films.

Released in August 2007, it was used as the theme song for the movie Evangelion: 1.0 You Are (Not) Alone.

With a pop sound that incorporates mid-tempo house elements, it gives voice to poignant love and a profound prayer.

Utada herself is a fan of Evangelion and reportedly crafted the track with the world of the series in mind.

The lyrics, which reflect the emotions of the anime’s characters, are sure to resonate with listeners.

It’s a moving, tear-jerking song that fills you with a bittersweet feeling.

Dan Dan Kokoro HikaretekuFIELD OF VIEW

[Duet with the original artist] DAN DAN Kokoro Hikareteku / FIELD OF VIEW’s Yuya Asaoka & CHIAKI

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.