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!
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- Anime songs popular among elementary school students. Theme songs and insert songs from trending anime.
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All-Star Artists Only! Anime Songs That Energize the Reiwa Era (71–80)
reverse dreamKing Gnu
A grand ballad by King Gnu woven from a beautiful piano melody and richly layered strings.
Written as the ending theme for the film Jujutsu Kaisen 0, it delicately portrays the protagonist, Yuta Okkotsu, as he carries feelings for his beloved while undergoing personal growth.
The pain of love that gnaws at the heart like a curse, and the strong will to keep looking forward despite it, strike a deep chord.
Released in December 2021, it is included on the double A-side single Ichizu/Sakayume.
The arrangement—featuring jazz and hip-hop elements emblematic of King Gnu’s essence—and Satoru Iguchi’s expressively nuanced vocals vividly capture the song’s world.
Recommended for those who resonate with the ache of loving someone, and for anyone standing at a crossroads in life.
IllusionMY FIRST STORY × HYDE
A stunning collaborative track by MY FIRST STORY and HYDE that fuses a passionate rock sound with a grand, expansive worldview.
Released in June 2024 as the opening theme for the TV anime Demon Slayer: Hashira Training Arc.
The strengths of both artists meld beautifully, delivering a powerful portrayal of a heart wavering between weakness and strength over a solid alternative rock foundation.
With lyrics that voice a fighting spirit in search of answers and the resolve to face inescapable fate, the song offers encouragement to anyone standing at a crossroads in life.
It’s sure to resonate as the perfect soundtrack for forging your own path.
Somebody help usVaundy
A rock tune that sharply captures the urban sense of emptiness and stagnation.
Released in February 2025 as the special ending for episode 7 of the TV anime SAKAMOTO DAYS, it was later included on the single Run, SAKAMOTO, released in March of the same year.
The lyrics deftly portray the loneliness and anxiety of people living in society, paired with a subtly ennui-tinged melodic line that leaves a strong impression.
When you’re feeling life’s hardships or want to reach out for help, this song might resonate with you.
Plan ADISH//
This is an anime tie-in track that stands out with a rock sound infused with traditional Japanese flavors.
It powerfully conveys the message that “sometimes you need to run from fate,” aligning closely with the protagonist’s inner turmoil and way of life set in the Kamakura period.
It’s an innovative song where DISH//’s dynamic band sound fuses with festival-like rhythms and the timbres of traditional Japanese instruments.
Released as a single in September 2024, it was chosen as the opening theme for the TV anime The Elusive Samurai.
All members took part in composing, and the lyrics were written by vocalist Takumi Kitamura, making it an ambitious work.
It’s a recommended track not only for fans of anime and manga, but also for music listeners interested in Japanese-style rock.
Stars swimMacaroni Enpitsu
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.
breakthroughSUPER BEAVER
This song pierces the heart with its straightforward message and powerful melody.
It sings of a resolve to break through head-on and the importance of living fully in the present, with sincere emotions that stir the soul.
The lyrics probe deeply into the meaning of continuing to take on challenges without fearing failure, while the energetic sound gives you the courage to move forward—together forming a superb harmony.
Released as a single in October 2020, it was chosen as the opening theme for the second cour of the popular anime Haikyu!! TO THE TOP.
It perfectly matches the anime’s worldview, which depicts young people’s growth and challenges, and captured the hearts of many viewers.
It’s a song with the power to gently push the backs of those about to take a new step or facing hardships.
UN-APEXTK from Ling tosite sigure
This track fuses the piercing intensity of razor-sharp sonic edges with delicate emotional expression.
Its distinctive guitar sound and complex rhythmic structure deftly portray a psyche that grows colder even as it heats up.
Showcasing the experimental approach unique to TK’s solo project, this piece was selected as the ending theme for Solo Leveling Season 2 – Arise from the Shadow.
It’s a song I recommend when you want to confront the emotions hidden deep within your heart, or when you feel ready to push past your limits and grow.