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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Nothing but famous artists! Anime songs that enliven the Reiwa era (81–90)
Cry BabyOfisharu Higedan Dism
A song that celebrates the strength to face adversity, the bonds with comrades, and the desire to try again debuted in May 2021 as the opening theme for the TV anime Tokyo Revengers.
Created by Official HIGE DANDism, it features an innovative sound with ten key changes, expressing the protagonist’s indomitable spirit.
It peaked at No.
4 on Billboard JAPAN’s Japan Hot 100 and won the Composition Award at the Reiwa 3rd Anisong Taisho.
From August 2022, it was also used in DyDo Drinco’s DyDo Blend commercial.
Imbued with a strong will to keep moving forward despite repeated setbacks, it’s a perfect song to belt out at karaoke.
HEROESNishikawa Takanori
Takanori Nishikawa has released a full-fledged rock tune that fuses a high-velocity band sound with an emotional melody.
The song was composed by Sojiro Oki and arranged by seasoned producer Seiji Kameda.
With a powerful message, it’s a track brimming with courage and hope.
Released in May 2025 as his seventh solo single, it was written as the opening theme for the TV anime “A Middle-Aged Man from the Countryside Becomes a Sword Saint.” The single comes in two editions: a regular edition and a limited-time production edition.
The regular edition includes one of eight random trading cards, while the limited-time production edition features a Blu-ray and a digipak with newly drawn artwork.
It’s an ambitious release recommended not only for anime fans but also for music listeners who love band-driven sounds.
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.
OtonokeCreepy Nuts
A captivating track that weaves a mysterious world of sound and the supernatural.
Its striking, innovative expression links the way music sinks deep into the human heart with the occult and paranormal.
Released in October 2024 as the opening theme for the TV anime Dandadan, it brilliantly captures the show’s atmosphere.
While rooted in Creepy Nuts’ signature hip-hop, the track’s eerie, lingering sound leaves a strong impression.
Earning high acclaim—including reaching No.
1 on the Billboard Japan Hot 100—it has garnered support from anime fans and listeners overseas alike.
With its driving beat and singular worldview, it’s a perfect fit for music fans seeking a mysterious experience.
ReawakeR (feat. Felix of Stray Kids)LiSA
An unconventional collaboration that fuses a powerful rock sound with electronic elements.
LiSA’s soaring vocals and Stray Kids’ Felix’s weighty rap blend in exquisite balance, weaving an epic story themed around rebirth and defying fate.
The dynamic sound crafted by Hiroyuki Sawano makes this a track that gives listeners a strong push forward.
The song has been selected as the opening theme for the TV anime “Solo Leveling Season 2 -Arise from the Shadow-,” airing from January 2025.
Its energetic development and positive message are sure to resonate with those embarking on new challenges or wishing to change themselves.
lilacMrs. GREEN APPLE
This song delicately captures the sparkle and bittersweetness of youth.
Chosen as the opening theme for the anime “Oblivion Battery,” it has deeply resonated with listeners.
The flower language of lilacs—often symbolic of youth—overlaps with the emotions of waiting to reunite with one’s past self or someone dear, all set to Mrs.
GREEN APPLE’s characteristically refreshing melody.
Released as a digital-only single from EMI Records in April 2024, it has surpassed 300 million streams.
It also won the Grand Prize at the 66th Japan Record Awards, marking a remarkable feat of back-to-back wins for the band.
Highly recommended for anyone who wants to bask in the sweet-and-sour memories of their youth.
Only Famous Artists! Anime Songs That Energize the Reiwa Era (91–100)
UN-APEXTK from RIN TO SHITE 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.