[2026] A compilation of Western songs used in Japanese anime

Arrietty’s SongCecile Corbel

Arrietty’s Song / Cecile Corbel

This is the theme song written by singer-songwriter Cécile Corbel from Brittany, France, for Studio Ghibli’s film The Secret World of Arrietty.

Released in 2010, it’s a memorable track that weaves a fantastical atmosphere through Celtic musical traditions and the sound of the harp.

It captures the film’s theme of “the great power of small beings” in a delicate and beautiful melody and is loved in both its Japanese and English versions.

As the first Ghibli work to feature a foreign artist overseeing the entire musical production, it’s a groundbreaking piece—highly recommended for fans of fantasy works and those interested in Celtic music.

The Perfect WorldMarty Friedman feat. Jean-Ken Johnny, KenKen

B The Beginning End Theme – The Perfect World by Marty Friedman Lyrics

It is the theme song of the anime “B: The Beginning,” produced by Netflix.

It’s a track created through a collaboration between Marty Friedman—famous as a former guitarist of Megadeth—and a well-known Japanese pop artist.

Distant DreamerDuffy

[Japanese-to-English Translation] Duffy – Distant Dreamer | Anime “JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure: Stone Ocean” Ending Theme

Welsh artist Duffy’s “Distant Dreamer” is a song that reflects a longing for freedom and the strong resolve of a dream-chaser.

Included on her 2008 album Rockferry, the track was also used as the ending theme for JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure: Stone Ocean.

Its lyrics portray an inner struggle—facing reality while wishing for the best circumstances, and never abandoning hope for one’s dreams.

Perfectly capturing Jolyne Cujoh’s hidden strength and conflicts, the song saw a sharp rise in streams in Japan with the anime’s 2021 debut, cementing its popularity among fans.

Offering the courage to gain the strength to overcome any hardship, this piece is especially recommended for those pursuing their dreams!

Baby IAriana Grande

Ariana Grande – Baby I (Official Video)

“Baby I,” included on Ariana Grande’s 2013 debut album Yours Truly and still beloved by many listeners today, conveys an indescribably strong love for someone special, carried by a swaying beat.

At the same time, its polished production is pleasantly smooth, and its ’90s-style sound is irresistible.

Known for her deep love of Tamagotchi, Grande even released a newly arranged version in 2014 as the ending theme for GO-GO Tamagotchi!.

It’s a perfect track not only for fans of love songs, but also for younger generations of anime fans.

ShiverLucy Rose

Lucy Rose – Shiver

Lucy Rose’s song “Shiver” is a moving piece that captures the delicate emotional nuances of complex, fragile human relationships.

Chosen as the opening theme for the 2014 anime Mushishi: The Next Chapter, it features Rose’s delicate vocals that resonate deeply with listeners and lyrics that explore universal themes of love, vulnerability, and the fear of losing someone dear.

The song’s narrator looks back on a fading relationship, tormented by its impending end despite the deep love they share.

It portrays a bond that, despite efforts to sustain it, ultimately shatters—expressing a poignant conflict between lingering attachment to the past and the reality of the present.

The synergy with the anime is outstanding, leaving a lasting echo in viewers’ hearts.

Whether you’re new to Rose’s music or a fan of the anime, this is a work I highly recommend.

Black Gold (feat. Thundercat)Flying Lotus

Black Gold (feat. Thundercat)

The masterful, genre-defying soundcraft of Flying Lotus and the luxurious collaboration with Thundercat—who’s also known for his affection for Japan—produced the track “Black Gold,” unveiled in 2021 as the opening theme for the anime Yasuke.

Aligned with the story, its sound seamlessly blends historical context with a modern sensibility, sure to captivate devoted fans.

The track’s swirl of electronica and Thundercat’s distinctive falsetto—like awakening to a new worldview—vividly conveys the strength and delicacy of the historical samurai Yasuke.

Emotional beats and synths intertwine to create an audiovisual masterpiece that stands apart from ordinary anime theme songs.

Through “Black Gold,” listeners enter their world—an undeniable treasure for those seeking musical thrills.

ShineMr. BIG

Mr. Big – Shine (MV)

The song Shine by Mr.

Big, a hard rock band representing the United States, was included on their 2001 album Actual Size.

In Japan, it reached No.

5 on the Oricon charts and was certified Gold, earning especially strong support from Japanese fans.

Interestingly, those unfamiliar with the era might be surprised to learn that it was used as the ending theme for the TV anime Hellsing.

Shine centers on themes of resilience in the face of adversity and self-acceptance, offering listeners courage and hope.

The lyrics’ depictions of anguished emotions and admiration for vibrant, life-affirming figures seem to hint at the struggles and battles of Hellsing’s protagonists.

Whether you’re a rock fan or an anime fan, this is a track you shouldn’t miss.