[2026] Popular in America! A Collection of Japanese Anime Songs

Blue HabitatNEW!Kitanitatsuya

Where Our Blue Is / Tatsuya Kitani

Tatsuya Kitani is a multi-creator known for his work as the Vocaloid producer “Konnichiwa Tanita-san” and as a support bassist for Yorushika.

This song, included as the title track of the EP “Ao no Sumika,” released in July 2023, was chosen as the opening theme for the second season of the TV anime Jujutsu Kaisen, “Hidden Inventory / Premature Death,” and is a renowned piece with high recognition in the United States.

The lyrics, which skillfully express the unique radiance of youth and the sense of loss that comes with growing up, are deeply moving.

Its driving guitar-rock sound and slightly wistful melody line perfectly match the anime’s worldview.

It’s a heart-stirring number recommended for those who want to look back on precious memories of the past or immerse themselves in an emotional mood.

CHA-LA HEAD-CHA-LANEW!Kageyama Hironobu

Cha-La Head-Cha-La – Dragon Ball Z OST

This is the 16th single by singer Hironobu Kageyama—known as the “Prince of Anison” and currently the leader of JAM Project.

The song was used as the first opening theme for the TV anime Dragon Ball Z, a rock number that brims with energy from its intro.

It’s also beloved as a staple that sparks massive sing-alongs at overseas events, including in the United States, transcending language barriers.

Although released as a single in May 1989, it continues to be sung across generations.

With a bold, expansive worldview penned by Yukinojo Mori fused with Kageyama’s passionate shouts, this representative masterpiece of Japanese anime songs gives powerful encouragement to all who listen.

KICKBACKNEW!Yonezu Kenshi

Kenshi Yonezu – KICKBACK

Kenshi Yonezu is a singer-songwriter who continues to redefine the concept of J-pop with overwhelming originality.

Released in 2022 as the opening theme for the TV anime Chainsaw Man, the song made global headlines by becoming the first-ever Japanese-language track to be certified Gold by the RIAA in 2023, and then achieving Platinum in 2025.

Its lyrics, which portray the protagonist’s yearning for a peaceful life in stark contrast with a self-destructive impulse, merge with a thrilling sound marked by relentless key changes to leave listeners awestruck.

The weighty beat—crafted with Daiki Tsuneta of King Gnu as a co-arranger—feels perfect for blowing away pent-up frustration or soundtracking a workout that pushes your body to the limit.

Moonlight LegendNEW!DALI

Moonlight Legend

DALI, known for including members selected from a trainee group who later formed MANISH, was an idol unit that left a vivid impression despite its short lifespan.

When it comes to anime songs that represent Japan—the kind that spark massive sing-alongs even at American anime events—this is the one.

Released in March 1992 as the first opening theme for the popular anime Pretty Guardian Sailor Moon, this single captures a sparkling melody and the bittersweet feelings of a young girl, a world that makes your heart race from the very first notes of the intro and continues to captivate across borders.

It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser not only for those who were obsessed back then, but also for enjoying together with overseas fans.

Certified Gold, this track is sure to bring everyone together at karaoke, breaking down language barriers in an instant.

silhouetteNEW!KANA-BOON

KANA-BOON “Silhouette” Music Video

The ninja anime Naruto Shippuden, loved around the world.

Chosen as its 16th opening theme and earning enthusiastic support from American fans is a rock number by KANA-BOON.

Released in 2014, it was their first anime tie-in and became a signature song for the band.

Riding on a high-velocity sound, the lyrics sing of the pains of growing up and a determination to protect what’s precious no matter what.

The message that one’s past self shapes who they are now crosses borders and sets many hearts ablaze.

In 2020, the overseas-oriented music video surpassed 100 million views, a testament to its overwhelming popularity.

It’s the perfect track for firing yourself up when taking on a challenge or for getting hyped at a live show.

Crimson Lotus FlowerNEW!LiSA

LiSA “Gurenge” -MUSiC CLiP- (Anime “Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba” Tanjiro Kamado: Unwavering Resolve Arc Opening Theme)

The anime Demon Slayer, which took the world by storm.

Its opening was this song performed by rock heroine LiSA.

The lyrics, which mirror the protagonist’s struggle against a harsh fate, are deeply moving.

They express a fierce will to bloom gloriously even while wounded and muddied, making it an upbeat tune that sets listeners’ hearts ablaze.

When it was released digitally in April 2019, it quickly dominated the charts, and she made her first appearance that year on NHK’s Kōhaku Uta Gassen.

It also made headlines for simultaneously recording the last No.

1 of the Heisei era and the first No.

1 of the Reiwa era.

This iconic anime song, well-known even in the United States, is sure to fill you with strength when you play it for a do-or-die moment you can’t afford to lose, or on a morning when you want to fire yourself up.

Crimson Bow and ArrowNEW!Linked Horizon

Crimson Bow and Arrow

This is a song by Linked Horizon, the music project led by Revo, which achieved explosive worldwide popularity as the opening theme of the anime Attack on Titan.

It was included on the single “Jiyū e no Shingeki,” released in July 2013, and sparked a social phenomenon, even reaching number one on the Billboard Japan Hot 100.

Its structure—melding German mixed chorus, symphonic orchestra, and intense band sound—is nothing short of overwhelming.

The anger and resolve of humanity confronting the threat of the Titans are expressed through dramatic melodies.

It offers an immersive experience that conjures scenes from the story each time you listen, making it a grand rock number perfect for moments when you want to fire yourself up or belt it out at karaoke to get the crowd going.