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 melancholy anime songs. Recommended popular tracks (21–30)
Lupin the Third Love ThemeIchiro Mizuki
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.
RainMotohiro Hata
It’s a song whose sound of rain seeps into the heart.
Sung powerfully by Motohiro Hata, this piece was originally a masterpiece released to the world by Senri Oe on his 1988 album “1234,” with Hata’s version included on his May 2013 single “Kotonoha.” It graced the ending of the animated film “The Garden of Words,” captivating fans.
The ineffable pangs of sorrow and the subtleties of the heart are delicately portrayed alongside rainy scenes, and that frustrating sense of longing tightens the chest.
Perfect for gazing at a summer downpour lost in thought, or for nights when you want to shed tears over a love that has passed.
Being human is niceYoshimi Nakajima
Yoshimi Nakajima’s “Ningen tte ii na” (“It’s Great to Be Human”) became popular as the ending theme of the well-known show Nippon Mukashibanashi.
It’s a charming song with a cute melody and lyrics that are somehow wistful yet profound.
It’s said to still be popular at karaoke even today.
Your SongRei Yasuda
One song that has been drawing attention for its strong storytelling is “Kimi no Uta.” This track was released by Rei Yasuda in 2020 and is also known as the theme song for the anime Natsume’s Book of Friends Roku.
The lyrics express a longing for a lover who has passed away.
In the music video, the deceased boyfriend returns to life, and the story depicts the couple spending a brief moment together.
The appeal lies in how viewers of the anime can listen while overlaying its story, and others can become emotionally invested in the MV’s narrative as well.
sealLiSA
This is the song chosen as the ending theme for the anime Sword Art Online II.
It really showcases LiSA’s powerful vocals.
It’s a very gentle song that I’d like people who’ve gone through hard times or heartbreak to listen to.
1/2Makoto Kawamoto
It’s a classic song I’ve been listening to since I was little.
The tempo and the lyrics make it super upbeat.
Kawamoto-san’s clear, pure voice makes it one of those songs that brightens your mood.
I think it’s great to listen to after a breakup—it lifts your spirits a bit.
reverse dreamKing Gnu
This song captured the hearts of many as a soul-stirring, grand ballad.
It features a beautiful piano melody and sweeping string arrangements, with lyrics that poignantly intertwine sorrow and hope.
Released in December 2021, it was selected as the ending theme for the popular anime film Jujutsu Kaisen 0.
The delicate sound design characteristic of King Gnu and the lyrics that align with the film’s worldview are a perfect match.
It’s a recommended track for those who’ve experienced heartbreak or farewells, or for anyone who wants to feel the bond with someone dear.
The heart-penetrating vocals are moving and will warmly envelop your heart.