Masterpieces of poignant anime songs. Recommended popular tracks.
I think it’s quite common that listening to songs tied in with anime makes you recall the work they’re from.
If the story was a sad one, hearing the song can leave you feeling wistful.
Here, I’ve picked out some Japanese pop songs—melancholic anime tracks—that evoke that feeling.
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Masterpieces of bittersweet anime songs. Recommended popular tracks (1–10)
Get WildTM NETWORK

Speaking of TM NETWORK’s “Get Wild,” it’s the opening theme song for the popular anime City Hunter.
This track, which is a perfect match for the slightly mature tone of the anime, remains popular even today.
It’s truly a masterpiece that feels timeless.
RE:I AMAimer

A grand rock ballad chosen as the ending theme for episode 6 of the OVA Mobile Suit Gundam UC.
Its striking lyrics portray the feelings of people striving to move forward despite deep sorrow and loss caused by war, beginning with a heartfelt call to a loved one who has been lost and expressing a strong will to find hope.
Released in March 2013, it was also a milestone for Aimer, becoming her first single to enter the Oricon Weekly Singles Chart top 10.
This is a highly recommended song for those facing life’s hardships, conveying that the small hopes found in everyday life can serve as signposts to the future.
Pointillism Song (feat. Sonoko Inoue)Mrs. GREEN APPLE

Mrs.
GREEN APPLE captivates listeners with their overwhelming expressive power.
This song, included on their single “Ao to Natsu” released in August 2018, was produced with singer-songwriter Sonoko Inoue.
As an insert track for the film “Aonatsu: Kimi ni Koi Shita 30-nichi,” it depicts the story of a man and a woman sensing an impending farewell at summer’s end.
The swelling emotions despite knowing time is limited, and the frustration of being unable to hold hands, are conveyed achingly through their two voices.
You can almost see memories piling up like scattered points before your eyes.
When you’re troubled by a love that can’t be, or on a sentimental night, listening to it will gently stay close to that helpless feeling.
Masterpieces of melancholic anime songs. Recommended popular tracks (11–20)
Lupin the Third Love ThemeMizuki Ichirō

It’s no exaggeration to call Lupin the Third one of Japan’s national anime.
Its theme and songs have been performed by countless musicians.
This time, we’re featuring “Lupin the Third: Love Theme” by Ichiro Mizuki, a heavyweight in the anime song world.
SparkleRADWIMPS

This is a song that was used as an insert track in the film “Your Name.” The first half gives a very simple and quiet impression, but as it progresses it becomes grand and powerful, which is really cool.
Pay attention to the very moving lyrics.
AitaiKato Miria

It’s a heartrending love song about longing for someone who’s looking at somebody else.
Included on the acclaimed 2009 album “Ring,” this fan favorite became a hit with over 700,000 downloads despite not being released as a single.
It also adds deep resonance to the film “Villain” as an in-film track.
Even if I’m not your number one, even if I know I’ll get hurt, it has to be you… That desperate cry from the heart tightens the listener’s chest.
When you fall for someone, reason can’t do a thing about it.
If you’re suffering from an unrequited love, this is a song that will surely stay close to your heart.
GarnetOku Hanako

It’s a very famous song as the theme for the animated feature film The Girl Who Leapt Through Time.
It’s a moving piece loved by a wide audience.
Released in 2006 as Hanako Oku’s fourth single.
Hanako Oku’s voice is so captivating that just listening to it can bring tears to your eyes…


