Lovely anime song

Only famous artists! Anime songs that energize the Reiwa era

Freelance music writerTakashi Hoshino
I’m Takashi Hoshino, a freelance writer currently juggling work with parenting. I’ve been playing guitar for over 20 years since I first picked it up when I started high school, and I’m still active in a band today. Ever since I began playing, I’ve been drawn to hard rock and heavy metal, and I enjoy intense music, whether Japanese or Western. At the same time, I keep in mind something I was told long ago: “If you want to play rock, you should know more than just rock!” With that in my heart, I make a point of listening to a wide range of genres every day. My experience as a writer is still growing, but I’ll keep working hard to recommend all kinds of music to as many people as possible!

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!

Nothing but famous artists! Anime songs that enliven the Reiwa era (81–90)

SailingBE:FIRST

BE:FIRST / Sailing -Lyric Video- (「ONE PIECE LOG: FISH-MAN ISLAND SAGA」Ending Theme “Sailing”)

SailingBE:FIRST

This is an ambitious work from BE:FIRST overflowing with upbeat messages and youthful passion.

Its powerful, hope-filled beat, melodies that sing of bonds with friends, and lyrics that convey determination for the future come together beautifully.

Showcasing the distinctive vocals of every member, this piece is sure to be a reassuring anthem for anyone striving toward their dreams.

Starting in November 2024, it was selected as the ending theme for the Fish-Man Island arc of the TV anime ONE PIECE, and in February 2025 it was included on the double A-side single “Spacecraft / Sailing.” It’s a song I especially recommend to those chasing dreams with their friends or about to take a new step forward.

If you’re looking for a motivational song that gives you courage and hope, be sure to check it out.

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unnecessary thingsTatsuya Kitani × Natori

Chained / Tatsuya Kitani × natori

Unnecessary Things – Tatsuya Kitani × Natori

This song serves as the theme for the anime Rurouni Kenshin.

The powerful melody and heartrending lyrics born from the collaboration between Tatsuya Kitani and Natori resonate deeply.

It portrays the protagonist’s resolve and inner turmoil as they confront past sins and strive to walk a new path.

Released digitally in October 2024, with a CD following in November, it also includes the coupling track “I Overwrote It.” The music video has been released as well, visually expressing the world of the song.

It’s a recommended track for when you want to face the complex emotions buried deep within.

Many listeners are likely to relate to its profound themes.

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Shooting starWANDS

Detective Conan New Creditless Ending | WANDS “Shooting star” “DETECTIVE CONAN” New Ending Movie (2025)

Shooting starWANDS

WANDS’s new song is a track that evokes a sparkle like a shooting star.

The lyrics, as if making a wish upon the night sky, really resonate.

I hear it’s been used as the ending theme for Detective Conan since January 2025, and it seems like a great match for the anime’s world.

This is the kind of song that might be perfect to listen to while gazing at the stars.

How about looking up at the sky with someone special and picturing the wishes in your heart? It’s sure to become a wonderful memory.

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A hundred flowers in full bloomLila Ikuta

The Apothecary Diaries Season 2 Non-Credit Opening | Ikuta Lira “Hyakka Ryoran”

Lila Ikuta in Full Bloom

This song sings of hope like flowers in full bloom.

Hyakka Ryoran, chosen as the opening theme for Season 2 of the anime The Apothecary Diaries, which begins airing in January 2025.

Rira Ikuta’s clear, crystalline vocals beautifully capture the protagonist’s inner strength and delicacy.

Its dramatic, grand sound also stands out, perfectly matching the anime’s world.

Highly recommended for those who want to deepen their immersion in the show or need the courage to face challenges.

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In conclusion

How was it? This time, we introduced anime songs from the Reiwa era.

Every track we covered would be considered a masterpiece even without a tie-in, wouldn’t it? There are many more classic anime songs beyond the ones we featured, so why not go looking for others as well?