Uplifting anime songs: a collection of masterpieces that blow away the blues

Smile BombMasako Mawatari

Masako Maeda – Smile Bomb (theme song of Yu Yu Hakusho)

This is the opening theme of Yu Yu Hakusho.

It was released in 1992 as Matsuko Mawatari’s second single.

Her powerful, bright vocals are a pleasure to listen to.

Were any of you copying the main character Yusuke Urameshi’s Spirit Gun pose?

Flying DeityAyase × R-Shitei

Flying Deity

Hiten, a digital single chosen as the opening theme for the newly remade 2023 TV anime Rurouni Kenshin: Meiji Swordsman Romantic Story.

Created by R-Shitei—known from Creepy Nuts and Umeda Cipher—and Ayase, active as a Vocaloid producer and a member of YOASOBI, the track’s breakneck call-and-response creates a thrilling ensemble that really amps you up.

The lyrics, which link to the anime’s story, evoke a universal theme: even in doubt, you can only keep moving forward.

It’s a track that lingers with the striking contrast between aggressive rap and lyrical melody.

Until the World Ends…WANDS

Until the World Ends... – WANDS (Full)

This is the song used as the ending theme for season 2 of the anime adaptation of the classic basketball manga SLAM DUNK.

It’s a massive hit by WANDS, a flagship band of the Being music scene, released in 1994 as their eighth single.

The song sings about the hope of dreaming of tomorrow, and perhaps because of its message and soaring vocals, it really stirs the emotions.

For example, someone currently nursing a crush might find the courage to confess after listening.

Incidentally, it’s also a very popular choice for karaoke.

Future ConnectionЯeal

Future Connection

This is a high-velocity rock tune crafted by the girls’ rock band ЯeaL! Featured as the opening theme for Pokémon Sun & Moon, the song’s sparkling sound and emotional melody really strike a chord.

If you listen closely to the lyrics, they portray the courage to take a step toward the light despite carrying anxieties, and the strong bonds with companions—doesn’t it feel exactly like the relationship between Pokémon and their Trainers? The track was released as a single in May 2018 and was later included on the album Light Up Ambivalenz.

It’s a refreshing, positivity-filled song that gently gives a push to anyone chasing their dreams.

It’s packed with elements that heat up your heart just by listening!

Getta BanbanTomohisa Sako

Pocket Monsters OP20 / XY OP3 – “Getta Banban” (Creditless V1) [SD]

This is the opening theme of the TV anime Pokémon XY, sung by Tomohisa Sako, who was hailed online as the “god of soothing voices.” Just listening to its irresistibly bright sound gives you energy, doesn’t it? The song carries a positive message of “Go out and grab your goals and dreams one after another!”—it feels like a powerful push to take action before overthinking.

Released in April 2015 as his 10th single, it was later included on the album “Boku kara Kimi e.” By the way, the coupling track was reportedly created at the director’s request with the theme “A letter from Clemont to Ash.” The love for the series really shines through! It’s a track packed with heart-stirring elements that we want everyone striving toward their dreams to hear!

Your AdventureOkazaki Taiiku

Your Adventure

This is the theme song for the anime Pokémon Sun & Moon by singer-songwriter Taiiku Okazaki.

It was used as the opening theme starting in October 2018, and Okazaki also performed the ending theme, which drew a lot of attention.

The classic, high-energy pop tune pairs perfectly with his familiar, easy-to-listen-to vocals.

The lyrics affirm that gaining experience—even getting sunburned or dirtying your clothes—becomes part of who you are, and they give you the courage to step into the unknown.

It’s a track brimming with positive energy that powerfully cheers on those who keep chasing their dreams, even if they’re clumsy or awkward.

It’s a hugely popular anime song that will surely give you a push when you’re starting a new challenge or feeling a bit down.

Battle FrontierAkina Takaya

Pocket Monsters Advanced Generation – OP 4 “Battle Frontier” | v2 (Creditless) [LQ]

This is a track that truly resonates, featuring Akina Takaya’s powerful vocals that opened the anime Pokémon: Advanced Generation.

It’s not just relentlessly upbeat; the lyrics convey a sense of resolve to face any hardship, carrying the oath shared with friends close to heart.

The warped guitar sound in the intro and the rhythmic phrasing that heightens the excitement of battles are especially striking! Released in July 2005, the song accompanied episodes 135 through 165 of the anime and was also tied in with the movie Lucario and the Mystery of Mew.

It vividly brings to mind intense showdowns with rivals and the protagonists charging toward their goals.

Perfect for times when you want to fire yourself up.