Do anime songs always get stuck in your head? Same here. Whether it’s a high-energy opening or a quiet, emotional ending, anime music just hits differently.

But I get it. Finding the best anime songs can feel overwhelming with so many choices out there. That’s where this guide comes in.

I’ll walk you through fan favorites, timeless classics, and even a few tracks you might’ve missed along the way. You’ll also find playlists to match your mood, like love songs, hype battle themes, or chill background vibes.

If anime music is your thing, this blog is a solid place to start building your ultimate playlist. Let’s see if your next favorite has been hiding in plain sight.

What Makes Anime Songs So Addictive?

I’ve always felt that anime songs hit hard because they’re tied to real emotion and big story moments. You probably notice it too. They play at the start and end of every episode, so they stick with you fast.

Even the background tracks do something special. They set the tone for everything, whether it’s a fight, a funny scene, or a moment that hits you right in the heart.

These songs aren’t just catchy. They bring back how the show made you feel. That’s why they stay with you, long after the episode’s over.

OPs, EDs, and OSTs: What They Are

Anime uses three main types of music: openings, endings, and background tracks.

OP (Opening Theme): Openings (OPs) set the mood and usually feature fast, exciting music. They often include scenes of characters in action or hints at the storyline.

ED (Ending Theme): Endings (EDs) are slower and more emotional, helping you wind down after the episode. They can show characters in quiet moments or reflect on what just happened.

OST (Original Soundtrack): OSTs (Original Soundtracks) play during the episode itself. These background tracks are key to building suspense, joy, or sadness.

All three types add depth and rhythm to the anime’s pacing. Together, they shape how you feel while watching.

Why Music Matters in Anime

Personally, I think that music in anime has a way of making every scene feel more intense. It’s that feeling when a song kicks in during a major fight or a quiet goodbye, it instantly makes the moment hit harder.

Those tracks do more than just fill space. They help you connect to the characters and lock those big story moments into your memory.

And honestly, even if you don’t understand the lyrics, the emotion still comes through. That’s what makes anime songs so powerful; they speak to how you feel, not just what you hear.

Most Iconic Anime Songs of All Time

I’ve heard these anime songs everywhere. They’re the ones fans never seem to forget. Chances are, you’ve caught yourself humming them or even singing along without realizing it. They’ve stuck for a reason.

1. “Blue Bird” – Ikimono-gakari (Naruto Shippuden)
2. “Guren no Yumiya” – Linked Horizon (Attack on Titan)
3. “Tank!” – The Seatbelts (Cowboy Bebop)
4. “Cha-La Head-Cha-La” – Hironobu Kageyama (Dragon Ball Z)
5. “Unravel” – TK from Ling Tosite Sigure (Tokyo Ghoul)
6. “Silhouette” – KANA-BOON (Naruto Shippuden)
7. “Again” – YUI (Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood)
8. “Cruel Angel’s Thesis” – Yoko Takahashi (Neon Genesis Evangelion)
9. “Asterisk” – Orange Range (Bleach)
10. “The World” – Nightmare (Death Note)
11. “Peace Sign” – Kenshi Yonezu (My Hero Academia)
12. “Butter-Fly” – Kōji Wada (Digimon Adventure)
13. “Kyouran Hey Kids!!” – The Oral Cigarettes (Noragami Aragoto)
14. “Don’t Say Lazy” – Sakurakou K-ON Bu (K-On!)
15. “Crossing Field” – LiSA (Sword Art Online)
16. “Bink’s Sake” – Unknown Artist (One Piece)
17. “History Maker” – Dean Fujioka (Yuri on Ice)

These tracks helped shape anime culture, and even now, they still hit hard every time they play. I still get that same rush of emotion, and I’m guessing you do too.

New & Trending Anime Songs

These fresh anime songs take over playlists and pop up all over social media. From high-energy openings to emotional endings, these are the standout tracks everyone’s talking about, and you’ll want to hear them for yourself.

1. “Bling-Bang-Bang-Born” – Creepy Nuts (Mashle: Magic and Muscles Season 2)
   A Jersey club hit that sparked the viral #BBBBdance challenge, dominating charts and streaming platforms.
2. “Otonoke” – Creepy Nuts (Dandadan)
   A chaotic blend of hip-hop and supernatural themes, this opening track resonated with fans worldwide.
3. “ReawakeR” – LiSA feat. Felix (Solo Leveling Season 2)
   A powerful collaboration that combines bold vocals with a modern edge, capturing the anime’s intense atmosphere.
4. “Watch Me!” – YOASOBI (Witch Watch)
   An upbeat and catchy opening theme that quickly climbed the charts and became a fan favorite.
5. “Jaka Jaan” – Zedd feat. C&K (Dragon Ball Daima)
   A fusion of electronic beats and traditional Japanese music, this opening theme brought a fresh sound to the franchise.
6. “Danger Danger” – FZMZ feat. Reol (Shangri-La Frontier)
   A high-energy track that perfectly matches the anime’s adventurous spirit.
7. “Abyss” – YUNGBLUD (Kaiju No. 8)
   An emotional song that delves into the protagonist’s struggles, resonating with audiences globally.
8. “Shikairo Days” – Shika-bu (My Deer Friend Nokotan)
   A quirky and infectious tune that became a viral meme on TikTok and YouTube.

These tracks showcase the evolving landscape of anime music, mixing genres and capturing the essence of their respective shows.

Best Anime Songs by Genre

I’ve sorted the best anime songs by genre to make it easier to find what fits your mood, maybe it’s high-energy action, heartfelt romance, or something more laid-back and chill.

Action Anime

These high-energy songs really set the tone when things get intense. You’ll feel the build-up of a battle or the push through a heroic moment as the music kicks in.

1. “Guren no Yumiya” – Linked Horizon (Attack on Titan)
2. “The Hero!!” – JAM Project (One Punch Man)
3. “Unravel” – TK from Ling Tosite Sigure (Tokyo Ghoul)
4. “Kaikai Kitan” – Eve (Jujutsu Kaisen)
5. “Departure!” – Masatoshi Ono (Hunter x Hunter)
6. “Silhouette” – KANA-BOON (Naruto Shippuden)
7. “Again” – YUI (Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood)
8. “Battlecry” – Nujabes feat. Shing02 (Samurai Champloo)
9. “Ichirin no Hana” – High and Mighty Color (Bleach)
10. “Inferno” – Mrs. GREEN APPLE (Fire Force)
11. “Kyouran Hey Kids!!” – THE ORAL CIGARETTES (Noragami Aragoto)
12. “My War” – Shinsei Kamattechan (Attack on Titan Final Season)
13. “VORACITY” – MYTH & ROID (Overlord III)
14. “Brave Shine” – Aimer (Fate/stay night: Unlimited Blade Works)
15. “Rise” – Origa (Ghost in the Shell: Stand Alone Complex 2nd GIG)

Romance & Drama

These songs have a way of capturing the emotions of love, loss, and personal growth so clearly. You’ll probably feel those moments deeply as you listen, like the music’s telling your story too.

1. “Kimi no Shiranai Monogatari” – supercell (Bakemonogatari)
2. “Orange” – 7!! (Your Lie in April)
3. “Secret Base Kimi ga Kureta Mono” – Zone (Anohana)
4. “Sincerely” – TRUE (Violet Evergarden)
5. “Aimer” – Brave Shine (Fate/stay night: Unlimited Blade Works)
6. “Kataomoi” – Aimer (Koi wa Ameagari no You ni)
7. “My Dearest” – Supercell (Guilty Crown)
8. “For Fruits Basket” – Ritsuko Okazaki (Fruits Basket)
9. “Kiss of Death” – Mika Nakashima x Hyde (Darling in the Franxx)
10. “Ren’ai Circulation” – Kana Hanazawa (Bakemonogatari)
11. “Yasashisa no Riyuu” – ChouCho (Hyouka)
12. “Kaze wa Fuiteiru” – Aimer (Natsume’s Book of Friends)
13. “Nandemonaiya” – RADWIMPS (Your Name)
14. “Kimi no Sei” – the peggies (Rascal Does Not Dream of Bunny Girl Senpai)
15. “Haruka Kanata” – Asian Kung-Fu Generation (Naruto)

Comedy & Slice of Life

These upbeat and catchy tunes perfectly complement lighthearted and everyday moments.

1. “Don’t Say ‘Lazy'” – Sakurakou K-ON Bu (K-On!)
2. “Motteke! Sailor Fuku” – Aya Hirano, Emiri Katou, Kaori Fukuhara (Lucky Star)
3. “Nichijou no Theme” – Yuuji Nomi (Nichijou)
4. “Renai Circulation” – Kana Hanazawa (Bakemonogatari)
5. “Sorairo Days” – Shoko Nakagawa (Gurren Lagann)
6. “Hyadain no Kakakata Kataomoi-C” – Hyadain (Nichijou)
7. “Happy Material” – Mahora Gakuen Chuutobu 2-A (Negima!?)
8. “Fuwa Fuwa Time” – Sakurakou K-ON Bu (K-On!)
9. “YuruYuri no Theme” – Nanamori Chu☆Goraku Bu (YuruYuri)
10. “Shiny Days” – Asaka (Laid-Back Camp)
11. “Go! Go! Maniac” – Sakurakou K-ON Bu (K-On!)
12. “Kimi ni Todoke” – May’s (Kimi ni Todoke)
13. “Kimagure Romantic” – Ikimono Gakari (Itazura na Kiss)
14. “Kiss! Kiss! Kiss!” – Buono! (Shugo Chara!)
15. “Oishii Two-han” – Yui Horie (Toradora!)

Sci-Fi & Fantasy

I’ve always turned to these upbeat and catchy tunes during lighthearted moments. They just lift my mood. You’ll find they fit right into your everyday routine, making even the simplest moments feel a bit more fun.

1. “A Cruel Angel’s Thesis” – Yoko Takahashi (Neon Genesis Evangelion)
2. “Tank!” – The Seatbelts (Cowboy Bebop)
3. “Inner Universe” – Origa (Ghost in the Shell: Stand Alone Complex)
4. “Genesis of Aquarion” – AKINO (Genesis of Aquarion)
5. “Shiver” – The Gazette (Kuroshitsuji II)
6. “Fly Me to the Moon” – Various Artists (Neon Genesis Evangelion Ending)
7. “Gravity” – Maaya Sakamoto (Wolf’s Rain)
8. “Lilium” – Kumiko Noma (Elfen Lied)
9. “Obsession” – See-Saw (.hack//SIGN)
10. “Resonance” – T.M.Revolution (Soul Eater)
11. “This Game” – Konomi Suzuki (No Game No Life)
12. “Crossing Field” – LiSA (Sword Art Online)
13. “My Soul, Your Beats!” – Lia (Angel Beats!)
14. “Brave Shine” – Aimer (Fate/stay night: Unlimited Blade Works)
15. “Colors” – FLOW (Code Geass: Lelouch of the Rebellion)

These songs have left a lasting impact on anime fans worldwide, each contributing to the storytelling and emotional resonance of their respective series.

Best Anime OPs and EDs

Some openings have gotten me pumped before a single word is spoken. You’ve likely had that same rush.

And then there are those endings that stick with you, making you think long after the screen fades to black.

Opening Themes You Can’t Skip

These OPs pull you in with bold music, eye-catching animation, and emotional impact. They’re the ones you never skip.

1. “Guren no Yumiya” – Linked Horizon (Attack on Titan)
2. “Tank!” – The Seatbelts (Cowboy Bebop)
3. “Unravel” – TK from Ling Tosite Sigure (Tokyo Ghoul)
4. “Silhouette” – KANA-BOON (Naruto Shippuden)
5. “Again” – YUI (Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood)
6. “Crossing Field” – LiSA (Sword Art Online)
7. “My Dearest” – Supercell (Guilty Crown)
8. “Kaikai Kitan” – Eve (Jujutsu Kaisen)
9. “Colors” – FLOW (Code Geass)
10. “Hikaru Nara” – Goose house (Your Lie in April)
11. “The Day” – Porno Graffitti (My Hero Academia)
12. “OP 13: Kimi no Na wa Kibou” – Nogizaka46 (Danganronpa 3)
13. “Peace Sign” – Kenshi Yonezu (My Hero Academia)
14. “Abnormalize” – Ling Tosite Sigure (Psycho-Pass)
15. “Brave Shine” – Aimer (Fate/stay night: Unlimited Blade Works)

Each one brings a mix of emotion and energy that you can feel from the first note.

Emotional Ending Themes

EDs are often slower, softer, and more personal. They stick with you after the story pauses or ends.

1. “Secret Base Kimi ga Kureta Mono” – Zone (Anohana)
2. “Orange” – 7!! (Your Lie in April)
3. “For Fruits Basket” – Ritsuko Okazaki (Fruits Basket)
4. “Namae wo Yobu yo” – Luck Life (Bungou Stray Dogs)
5. “Kaze wa Fuiteiru” – Aimer (Natsume’s Book of Friends)
6. “Lost in Paradise” – ALI feat. AKLO (Jujutsu Kaisen)
7. “Shirogane” – LiSA (Demon Slayer: Mugen Train Arc)
8. “From the Edge” – FictionJunction feat. LiSA (Demon Slayer)
9. “Michishirube” – Minori Chihara (Violet Evergarden)
10. “Yoru wa Nemureru kai?” – flumpool (Ajin: Demi-Human)
11. “Snow Fairy” – FUNKIST (Fairy Tail)
12. “Kimi ni Todoke” – MAY’S (Kimi ni Todoke)
13. “Avid” – SawanoHiroyuki[nZk]:mizuki (86)
14. “Ring of Fortune” – Eri Sasaki (Plastic Memories)
15. “Zankoku na Tenshi no Thesis (Piano Ver.)” – Evangelion Ending Remix (Various Artists)

These songs hit hardest after emotional episodes and often close the show on a powerful note.

Playlists and Where to Stream

I’ve put together some go-to playlists that I keep coming back to. You’ll find them easy to stream wherever you listen most.

Spotify Playlists

Spotify offers a vast collection of anime music.You can listen to curated playlists or create your own.

1. Best of Anime OST – A playlist featuring 75 top anime songs.

2. Anime Openings, Endings, Insert Songs – A comprehensive playlist with 250 tracks.

YouTube Compilations

YouTube hosts numerous anime music compilations. Here are a few notable playlists:

BEST Anime Openings and Endings Songs – A playlist with over 800 anime songs.

Anime Music (10+ Hour Playlist) – A lengthy compilation featuring various anime tracks.

Best Anime Songs of All the Times!– A selection of favorite anime songs from official artist channels.

AniPlaylist.com

AniPlaylist is a dedicated platform for anime music enthusiasts.It helps you find original anime songs on Spotify and Apple Music.

Features include:

• Search Functionality: Find songs by title, anime, or artist.
• MyAniPlaylist: Generate personalized anime playlists based on your preferences.
• Community Support: Join their Discord community for discussions and recommendations.

AniPlaylist also maintains a GitHub repository listing anime songs available on Spotify.

Fan Favorites from Reddit & TikTok

Anime music has a unique way of resonating with fans, sparking discussions on Reddit, and inspiring trends on TikTok.

Reddit’s Most Beloved Anime Songs

Users often share their favorite anime tracks that have left a lasting impression.

1. Cowboy Bebop – Praised for its jazz-infused soundtrack by Yoko Kanno, with “Tank!” being a standout opening theme.
2. Vision of Escaflowne – Noted for its orchestral compositions, also by Yoko Kanno, which enhance the series’ emotional depth.
3. Your Lie in April – Recognized for its classical music pieces that beautifully complement the show’s themes of love and loss.
4. Attack on Titan – Features powerful openings like “Guren no Yumiya” that energize viewers and set the tone for the series.
5. Neon Genesis Evangelion – “A Cruel Angel’s Thesis” remains an iconic opening that continues to be celebrated by fans.

TikTok’s Viral Anime Music Trends

TikTok has propelled several anime songs into viral sensations, often accompanied by dance challenges and creative edits.

1. “Bling-Bang-Bang-Born” by Creepy Nuts – This high-energy track became a global hit, inspiring the #BBBBdance challenge.
2. “Idol” by Yoasobi – Serving as the opening for “Oshi no Ko,” this song sparked widespread dance covers and fan edits.
3. “Kawaikute Gomen” by HoneyWorks – A catchy tune that gained popularity through makeup transformation videos and the “Manga AI” filter.
4. “Shukusei!! Loli Kami Requiem” by Shigure Ui – Known for its brisk dance routine, it quickly became a meme and dance trend.
5. “Summertime” by Cinnamons × Evening Cinema – This mellow track saw a resurgence as users paired it with nostalgic summer visuals.

These songs showcase the dynamic intersection of anime culture and social media, highlighting how music can transcend platforms and connect fans worldwide.

Anime Songs for Musicians

If you’re learning an instrument, anime songs are a fun way to build your skills. Many have simple melodies that sound great on piano, violin, or guitar.

I’m listing easy songs to start with and where to find sheet music or tabs. It’s perfect for beginners who want to play tunes they already love.

Piano

These anime tracks are perfect for piano beginners, featuring simple melodies and repetitive patterns.

1. “A Cruel Angel’s Thesis” – Neon Genesis Evangelion
2. “Gurenge” – Demon Slayer
3. “Blue Bird” – Naruto Shippuden
4. “Again” – Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood
5. “Platina” – Cardcaptor Sakura
6. “Butter-Fly” – Digimon Adventure
7. “Wind” – Naruto
8. “Sign” – Naruto Shippuden
9. “Silhouette” – Naruto Shippuden
10. “Go!!!” – Naruto
11. “Homura” – Demon Slayer
12. “Kamado Tanjiro no Uta” – Demon Slayer
13. “Zankyou Sanka” – Demon Slayer
14. “Akeboshi” – Demon Slayer
15. “Sparkle” – Your Name

Violin

For violinists, these anime songs offer beautiful melodies that are approachable for beginners.

1. “Guren no Yumiya” – Attack on Titan
2. “Unravel” – Tokyo Ghoul
3. “My Dearest” – Guilty Crown
4. “Kimi no Shiranai Monogatari” – Bakemonogatari
5. “Lilium” – Elfen Lied
6. “Sincerely” – Violet Evergarden
7. “Brave Shine” – Fate/stay night: Unlimited Blade Works
8. “Kataomoi” – Koi wa Ameagari no You ni
9. “For Fruits Basket” – Fruits Basket
10. “Kiss of Death” – Darling in the Franxx
11. “Yasashisa no Riyuu” – Hyouka
12. “Nandemonaiya” – Your Name
13. “Kimi no Sei” – Rascal Does Not Dream of Bunny Girl Senpai
14. “Haruka Kanata” – Naruto
15. “Chiisana Koi no Uta” – Teasing Master Takagi-san

Guitar

These anime songs are great for guitarists starting out, featuring straightforward chords and melodies.

1. “Black Rover” – Black Clover
2. “Kimi no Na wa” – Your Name
3. “Sad Theme” – One Punch Man
4. “Tabun” – YOASOBI
5. “Cinderella” – Komi Can’t Communicate
6. “Akeboshi” – Demon Slayer
7. “Chiisana Koi no Uta” – Mongol800
8. “Gurenge” – Demon Slayer
9. “Again” – Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood
10. “Unravel” – Tokyo Ghoul
11. “Silhouette” – Naruto Shippuden
12. “Blue Bird” – Naruto Shippuden
13. “Go!!!” – Naruto
14. “Sign” – Naruto Shippuden
15. “Wind” – Naruto

Anime Songs You Might Have Missed

Some of the best anime songs aren’t from the big-name shows. These hidden gems come from lesser-known series but still leave a strong impact.

1. “Namae no Nai Kaibutsu” – EGOIST (Psycho-Pass: Extended Edition)
   A dark, haunting track with layered vocals that perfectly matches the anime’s tone of mystery and control.
2. “Daisy” – STEREO DIVE FOUNDATION (Beyond the Boundary)
   This ending theme carries an emotional weight, pairing well with the anime’s themes of grief and growth.
3. “Bravely You” – Lia (Charlotte)
   A heartfelt opening that builds slowly into something powerful. It sets the tone for a show full of emotion and sacrifice.
4. “Shiver” – The Gazette (Kuroshitsuji II)
   A hard-hitting rock opening with gothic flair, fitting for the anime’s dark and stylish world.
5. “Hello, Shooting Star” – moumoon (Assassination Classroom)
   A soft and reflective ending theme that captures the bittersweet feel of the show’s later episodes.
6. “Kawaranai Mono” – Hanako Oku (The Girl Who Leapt Through Time)
   This emotional ballad underscores the themes of time, love, and regret with a simple yet powerful melody.
7. “Hikari no Hato” – Sayaka Sasaki (Hyouka OVA)
   A bright, floaty song with gentle energy that matches the mystery and quiet charm of the series.
8. “Nornir” – Etsuko Yakushimaru (Mawaru Penguindrum)
   A surreal and hypnotic opening that’s as strange and beautiful as the show itself.
9. “Seija no Koushin” – Ali Project (Maria†Holic)
   Fast-paced and eccentric, this opening is filled with dramatic flair and a strong classical influence.
10. “Tsukiakari” – Rie fu (Darker than Black: Gemini of the Meteor)
    A soft and moody ending that adds depth to the series’ themes of identity and loyalty.
11. “Shiny Tale” – Mix Speaker’s, Inc. (Binbougami ga!)
    A cheerful and energetic opening that’s surprisingly catchy, just like the show’s mix of chaos and heart.
12. “Yume Sekai” – Haruka Tomatsu (Sword Art Online)
    Not as well-known as other SAO tracks, but this ending theme has a peaceful tone that gives a nice emotional close.
13. “Kimi to Fit Boxing” – You Taichi (How Heavy Are the Dumbbells You Lift?)
    A workout anthem that’s upbeat, funny, and strangely motivating, even if you’re just watching.
14. “Real World” – nano (Btooom!)
    A strong opening with rock energy and emotional edge, setting the scene for a darker survival anime.
15. “Ashita no Kimi sae Ireba Ii.” – ChouCho (The World God Only Knows)
    A romantic, slightly dramatic ED that closes episodes with a soft emotional punch.

These songs may not top charts, but they’re packed with emotion, artistry, and personality; definitely worth a listen.

My Personal Picks You Shouldn’t Skip

A few songs always hit me the hardest: “Unravel” from Tokyo Ghoul, “Fly High!!” from Haikyuu!!, and “Clattanoia” from Overlord.

Each one brings back strong moments and stands out not just for the show, but for the music itself. If you’ve missed them, give them a listen,

Wrapping Up

The biggest takeaway for me? Some of the best anime songs you’ve never heard aren’t from chart-topping hits.

They’re the hidden ones tucked into shows most people skip. You don’t need a blockbuster opening to feel something real.

Hopefully, this list gave you a few new tracks to listen to, and maybe even a new favorite or two. Think about how each song made you feel, then go listen again with fresh ears.

Don’t stick to just the popular stuff. The quieter, lesser-known songs often leave the strongest impression.

Ready to hear more anime songs worth your time? Check out other blogs on the website for other unique finds worth your time.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the most iconic song in anime?

“A Cruel Angel’s Thesis” is widely considered the most iconic, followed by “Tank!” and “Unravel” for their lasting impact and global recognition.

Do anime songs have English versions?

Some shows release official English covers. Others rely on fans to create translations or adapt lyrics. You’ll find both on YouTube and music platforms.

Which anime has the best music?

“Cowboy Bebop,” “Your Lie in April,” and “Attack on Titan” are praised for outstanding soundtracks that enhance emotion and storytelling.

What are some songs that sound like anime openings but aren’t?

Some non-anime songs like “Run to You” by SEVENTEEN and “Papermoon” by Tommy heavenly6 have fast tempos, emotional lyrics, and dramatic builds, making them feel like anime openings.