[2026] A compilation of Western songs used in Japanese anime
In a sense, anime opening and ending themes are very important—many songs are so striking that they define a work’s image.
There are all kinds of anime songs, from classic “anison”-style tracks to songs performed by voice actors.
In this article, we’ve compiled songs by Western artists and bands that have been used as theme music in Japanese anime.
Some people might feel that Western music and Japanese anime don’t really go together, but in fact they’re used quite often.
You might even discover Western songs used in surprising titles—ones that even Western music fans didn’t know about.
Be sure to check it out!
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[2026] Western songs used in Japanese anime (21–30)
Gospel Of The ThrottleMinutes Til Midnight
The opening theme of Drifters.
It’s a track by the Los Angeles rock band MINUTES TIL MIDNIGHT.
The song is included on their 2015 album Bulletproof Dreams.
The languid vocals with an alternative vibe paired with the intense rock sound make it a really cool song.
Last Train HomePat Metheny Group
This is also the ending theme from JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure: Egypt Arc.
In contrast to the previous songs, this one is instrumental (no vocals).
The sound of the train whistle and the mellow guitar tones add a touch of emotion that enriches the anime.
[2026] A Compilation of Western Songs Used in Japanese Anime (31–40)
Human TouchWarren Wiebe
The ending theme of After War Gundam X.
A slow ballad by Warren Wiebe.
A Japanese cover version was later broadcast as well.
It seems the song was written specifically for this anime.
Combined with its relaxed tempo, it makes for a very pleasant track.
Samurai Jack Japanese IntroSamurai Jack
Samurai Jack opening theme.
Like the previous one, it’s an animated series produced by Cartoon Network.
It’s rap-style—another type of anime song that’s rarely heard in Japan.
Composed by James L.
Venable.
It uses plenty of sounds that evoke Japan.
Alone Again (Naturally)Gilbert O’Sullivan
Gilbert O’Sullivan’s classic “Alone Again (Naturally)” has continued to be loved by many music fans even now, nearly half a century after its 1972 release.
The song deals with the universal theme of loneliness and the raw pain of heartbreak, and its delicate portrayal of these emotions is deeply moving.
It topped the charts in countries around the world, including the United States and Canada, securing a firm place in music history.
If you listen closely, you can picture the protagonist, disillusioned at a wedding, questioning himself over and over and wandering on the brink of despair.
Did you know that this song was actually used just once as the opening theme for episode 24 of the anime adaptation of Rumiko Takahashi’s masterpiece Maison Ikkoku? Due to various circumstances, it wasn’t used from the following episode onward, so those who saw it in real time can be said to have had a very rare experience.
Karma ChameleonCulture Club
The opening theme of Anime Daisuki! season 23.
A track by Culture Club, a band formed in London, UK.
With a rhythm characteristic of the ’80s, it evokes a sense of nostalgia.
Many people will probably remember it from “Karma, karma, karma, karma.”
My Foolish HeartBill Evans Trio
It’s an insert song from Seraph of the End.
It’s a famous piece by Bill Evans, a leading pianist in modern jazz.
It has been covered by many other artists, and some versions even have lyrics.
In Japanese, the title is rendered as “Orokana watashi no kokoro,” which means “My Foolish Heart.”