[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] 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.
Colorado BulldogMr. BIG
Only episode 1 of “Heaven’s Memo Pad” uses this ending theme.
It’s included on the album Bump Ahead by the virtuoso band Mr.
Big.
I think you’ll understand why only the first episode used this song if you watch the main story.
From episode 2 onward, Kenichi Suzumura’s “Asunaro” is used.
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.
SAYONARAMary MacGregor
This is the ending theme of the film Farewell to Space Battleship Galaxy Express 999, created by American singer Mary MacGregor, who topped the U.S.
charts in 1976 with her smash hit Torn Between Two Lovers.
For this animated film released in August 1981, she wrote both the lyrics and the music, resulting in a roughly five-and-a-half-minute ballad featuring an impressive, grand orchestration by the Los Angeles Symphony.
The lyrics, which sing of the sorrow of parting and the hope that follows, are carried by her delicate and emotionally rich vocals, and together with the movie’s final scene, they leave a deep impression on the audience.
Showcasing the power of music to transcend borders, this masterpiece is recommended not only for anime fans but also for lovers of Western pop.
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.”
[2026] Compilation of Western Songs Used in Japanese Anime (41–50)
MR.RAINDROPAmplified
A song used as the second ending theme for Gintama.
They were billed as a three-piece band from Hong Kong, but even the label’s page no longer lists any activity, so it’s unclear whether they’ve disbanded.
It has a lively rhythm, but the lyrics are quite sad—an oddly intriguing song.
I Really Want to Stay At Your HouseRosa Walton
Rosa Walton, originally from the UK, is an artist known for synth-pop and dream pop, performing as a member of the pop duo Let’s Eat Grandma.
This piece was created in December 2020 for the soundtrack of the game Cyberpunk 2077, and later drew attention when it was used in the 2022 Netflix anime Cyberpunk: Edgerunners.
Characterized by its emotional lyrics and melody, it plays during pivotal scenes depicting the relationship between the protagonists, David and Lucy, leaving a strong impression on viewers.
Following the anime’s broadcast, it achieved international success, reaching number 68 on the UK Singles Chart.
Highly recommended for fans of the cyberpunk aesthetic and anime enthusiasts.