Only famous artists! Anime songs that energize the Reiwa era
When it comes to anime songs, in the Showa era there were many child-oriented tracks made specifically for each anime, while in the Heisei era there were many tie-in songs that often had little to do with the anime’s storyline.
In contrast, these days there are more and more songs written for anime that have also become signature hits for the artists themselves.
This may well be because Japanese anime has gained popularity overseas.
So this time, we’ll be introducing songs that serve as theme songs for some of Japan’s most iconic anime works!
All-Star Artists Only! Anime Songs That Energize the Reiwa Era (1–10)
KICK BACKKenshi Yonezu
Kenshi Yonezu, a singer-songwriter who’s taken the J-pop scene by storm with his modern musicality.
His 13th single, written as the theme song for the TV anime Chainsaw Man, was born from a collaboration with Daiki Tsuneta of King Gnu.
Released in October 2022, the track fuses energetic rock with elements of drum’n’bass, featuring a fast tempo and a structure that makes frequent use of key changes.
Its gritty vocals and hysteric arrangement align with the anime’s worldview and really amp up the excitement.
It’s also a surefire crowd-pleaser for year-end and New Year party entertainment.
Kaikai KitanEVE
A digital download-only single released in December 2020 by Eve, an artist active mainly online as a singer and Vocaloid producer.
Chosen as the opening theme for the TV anime Jujutsu Kaisen, the track vividly captures a fighting spirit that battles through a chaotic world.
Its ensemble builds momentum from the first verse, and the thrilling yet catchy arrangement evokes the sound of a new era.
With over 300 million streams, it has become a popular song embraced by a wide audience, from children to adults.
idolYOASOBI
YOASOBI’s music, which continues to shake up the music industry, has once again been chosen as an anime opening theme.
This track, created based on a newly written novel by the original author, incorporates hip-hop elements while delivering a pop song with a gothic rock flair.
Released in June 2023, it sparked major buzz both in Japan and abroad, becoming the first Japanese song to top the Billboard Global Excl.
U.S.
chart.
It might be difficult to sing at karaoke, but it’s a highly recommended track for those who want to immerse themselves in the world of its lyrics.
Zankyo SankaAimer
Aimer’s 20th single, used as the opening theme for the anime Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba – Entertainment District Arc.
Its fast-paced arrangement featuring brass and piano is layered with Aimer’s signature husky vocals, creating a finish that evokes the loves and hates lurking beneath a glamorous world.
Released digitally in advance in December 2021, the song reached No.
1 for downloads and No.
1 for streaming on the Billboard Japan Songs Chart.
The lyrics, which convey a message of carrying hope while overcoming painful pasts and inner conflicts, are sure to resonate powerfully with listeners.
InfernoMrs. GREEN APPLE
Featured as the opening theme for the TV anime Fire Force, this song garnered attention as a high-energy rock number.
Now one of Mrs.
GREEN APPLE’s signature tracks, it conveys the strength to keep moving forward while accepting the transience of life.
It was also included on the October 2019 album Attitude, and the following August surpassed 100 million streams, generating a huge response.
It’s a song that energizes not only anime fans but also anyone feeling worn out by daily life.
flash[Alexandros]
![Flash [Alexandros]](https://i.ytimg.com/vi/xfG6L9I7N8I/sddefault.jpg)
The rock band [Alexandros], known for their distinctive musical style, has had one of their songs selected as the theme for the film Mobile Suit Gundam: Hathaway.
Its powerful melody and striking lyrics align perfectly with the world of the anime.
The lyrics, which depict a resolve toward a new future, are sure to inspire courage in listeners.
Released in May 2021, the track also drew attention as [Alexandros]’s first single following the addition of their new drummer.
It’s an energetic rock number that’s guaranteed to fire up any live venue.
Choose!!!Cider Girl
Cider Girl is a three-piece rock band known for their exhilarating, fizzy pop-rock sound.
Their latest track makes a striking impression with a structure that jumps from game-like sound effects straight into full band energy.
The lyrics carry a powerful message: rather than sticking to a predetermined role, choose the path you believe in—something that gives listeners real courage.
Released as a digital single in January 2025, it was selected as the opening theme for the TV anime “Reincarnated Villainess Uncle.” It’s a highly recommended number for anyone feeling frustrated by the unfairness of everyday life!