Anime is more than just stunning visuals and gripping stories—it’s a cultural phenomenon that weaves music into its very soul. The opening and ending theme songs of anime series are often as iconic as the shows themselves, setting the tone, evoking emotions, and becoming anthems for fans worldwide. I still remember the first time I heard A Cruel Angel’s Thesis from Neon Genesis Evangelion—the soaring vocals and pulsating beat had me hooked before the first frame even appeared. Whether you’re a seasoned otaku or a casual viewer, anime theme songs have a way of sticking with you, often becoming nostalgic touchstones that transport you back to your favorite moments. In this deep dive, we’ll explore the best anime theme songs of all time, ranked based on their cultural impact, catchiness, emotional resonance, and synergy with their respective shows. From jazzy classics to modern bangers, let’s embark on a melodic journey through anime history.
What Makes an Anime Theme Song Iconic?
Anime theme songs are more than just catchy tunes—they’re storytelling tools that encapsulate a series’ essence in under two minutes. A great theme song sets the mood, foreshadows themes, and gets you hyped for what’s to come. According to Anime News Network, the best openings combine memorable melodies, evocative lyrics, and visuals that amplify the show’s narrative. But what exactly elevates a song to legendary status? Here are the key ingredients:
- Catchiness: A melody that burrows into your brain and refuses to leave.
- Emotional Resonance: Lyrics and tones that mirror the show’s emotional core, whether it’s hope, despair, or adventure.
- Cultural Impact: Songs that transcend their series, becoming karaoke staples or global phenomena.
- Visual Synergy: Openings where the music and animation work in harmony to create an unforgettable experience.
With these criteria in mind, I’ve curated a list of the top 10 anime theme songs, ranked based on their influence, popularity, and ability to make you want to sing along at the top of your lungs. Let’s dive into the countdown.
The Top 10 Anime Theme Songs, Ranked
10. “Again” – Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood (YUI)
Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood is a masterclass in storytelling, and its first opening, Again by YUI, is a perfect introduction to the Elric brothers’ journey. The song’s upbeat yet introspective tone captures the themes of redemption and perseverance. YUI’s soulful vocals, paired with a driving guitar riff, make it impossible not to feel the weight of Edward and Alphonse’s quest. The Oricon charts ranked Again highly upon release, reflecting its popularity among fans. The opening sequence, with its dynamic visuals of alchemy and action, syncs perfectly with the song’s energy, making it a standout in the shonen genre. I remember blasting this on repeat during my college days, feeling like I could take on the world—or at least my finals.
9. “Blue Bird” – Naruto: Shippuden (Ikimono-Gakari)
Naruto: Shippuden is known for its emotional depth, and Blue Bird by Ikimono-Gakari soars as one of its most beloved openings. This third opening encapsulates Naruto’s longing for connection and his relentless pursuit of his dreams. The song’s uplifting melody and heartfelt lyrics resonate with anyone who’s ever chased an impossible goal. According to Billboard Japan, Blue Bird became a fan favorite, often cited in polls for its nostalgic pull. The visuals, showing Naruto running toward his future, paired with the song’s soaring chorus, create a sense of hope that’s quintessentially Naruto. It’s the kind of song that makes you want to dust off your old ninja headband and believe in yourself again.
8. “The Hero!!” – One Punch Man (JAM Project)
Few songs scream “hype” like The Hero!! by JAM Project, the opening for One Punch Man. From the moment the electric guitars kick in and the chorus declares “One Punch!”, you’re ready to watch Saitama obliterate everything in his path. This song is pure adrenaline, perfectly matching the show’s mix of humor and over-the-top action. GameRant praises its ability to capture the show’s satirical tone while still delivering a fist-pumping anthem. The visuals, with their explosive animation, make this opening a masterclass in getting viewers pumped. I once played this at a gym session, and let’s just say my workout hit god-level intensity.
7. “Gurenge” – Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba (LiSA)
Gurenge by LiSA is a modern classic that took the anime world by storm. As the opening for Demon Slayer, it blends traditional Japanese elements with rock, creating a sound that’s both epic and emotional. LiSA’s powerful vocals convey Tanjiro’s determination and sorrow, while the visuals showcase Ufotable’s breathtaking animation. According to WatchMojo, Gurenge ranked high in fan polls due to its universal appeal and chart-topping success. It’s no surprise it became a global hit, with covers and dance challenges flooding social media. This song was my anthem during a tough year, reminding me to keep pushing forward no matter the odds.
6. “Bloody Stream” – JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure: Battle Tendency (Coda)
JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure is known for its flamboyant style, and Bloody Stream by Coda is the perfect musical embodiment of that vibe. This opening for Battle Tendency is a jazzy, upbeat banger that captures Joseph Joestar’s charisma. The song’s brass section and vibrant visuals make it impossible to skip, earning it a top spot in CBR rankings. Its infectious energy has made it a favorite at anime conventions, where fans belt it out with JoJo poses in tow. I still catch myself humming this during random moments, instantly transported to the colorful world of JoJo.
5. “Shinzou wo Sasageyo!” – Attack on Titan (Linked Horizon)
When it comes to epic, Shinzou wo Sasageyo! by Linked Horizon is in a league of its own. The second opening for Attack on Titan is a battle cry, with its marching beat and German-infused lyrics evoking the show’s themes of sacrifice and resistance. ONE Esports calls it a transformative anthem that turns any moment into a grand adventure. The visuals, showing Eren and the Survey Corps charging into battle, amplify the song’s intensity. I vividly recall watching this opening with friends, all of us chanting along, ready to dedicate our hearts to the cause.
4. “Unravel” – Tokyo Ghoul (TK from Ling Tosite Sigure)
Unravel by TK from Ling Tosite Sigure is a haunting masterpiece that perfectly captures the anguish of Tokyo Ghoul’s protagonist, Kaneki. Its soft whispers build into powerful, melodic screams, mirroring Kaneki’s transformation. Ranker lists it among the top anime openings due to its emotional depth and cultural impact. The song’s raw intensity and the opening’s striking visuals make it unforgettable. I remember staying up late binging Tokyo Ghoul, with Unravel stuck in my head, its lyrics echoing my own moments of inner turmoil.
3. “Tank!” – Cowboy Bebop (Seatbelts)
Tank! by Seatbelts, composed by Yoko Kanno, is the jazzy heartbeat of Cowboy Bebop. From the iconic “3, 2, 1, let’s jam!” to its saxophone-driven melody, this opening is pure cool. It sets the tone for Spike and his crew’s spacefaring adventures, blending noir and jazz in a way that’s timeless. MovieWeb hails it as a genre-defining track that transcends anime. Every time I hear that bassline, I’m back in my teenage bedroom, dreaming of being a bounty hunter in space.
2. “Moonlight Densetsu” – Sailor Moon (Dali)
Moonlight Densetsu by Dali is the quintessential magical girl anthem. As the opening for Sailor Moon, it captures the show’s blend of romance, adventure, and empowerment. Its catchy melody and dreamy lyrics have made it a global phenomenon, with covers by artists like Evgenia Medvedeva. The song’s nostalgic pull is undeniable—I still get goosebumps thinking about Usagi transforming to its tune. It’s a reminder of why Sailor Moon remains a cultural touchstone.
1. “A Cruel Angel’s Thesis” – Neon Genesis Evangelion (Yoko Takahashi)
Topping the list is A Cruel Angel’s Thesis by Yoko Takahashi, the opening for Neon Genesis Evangelion. This song is the gold standard of anime openings, blending J-pop with a heavy beat to create a timeless anthem. Its cultural impact is immense, topping polls like Asahi TV’s survey and remaining a karaoke staple. The opening’s visuals, with their abstract imagery, perfectly complement the song’s enigmatic energy. For me, this song is more than music—it’s a portal to the complex emotions of my youth, making it the undisputed king of anime theme songs.
Comparison Table: Top Anime Theme Songs at a Glance
| Rank | Song | Anime | Artist | Genre | Why It Stands Out |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | A Cruel Angel’s Thesis | Neon Genesis Evangelion | Yoko Takahashi | J-Pop | Iconic, timeless, and culturally significant |
| 2 | Moonlight Densetsu | Sailor Moon | Dali | Pop | Nostalgic and empowering magical girl anthem |
| 3 | Tank! | Cowboy Bebop | Seatbelts | Jazz | Cool, genre-defining, and universally loved |
| 4 | Unravel | Tokyo Ghoul | TK from Ling Tosite Sigure | Rock/Indie | Haunting and emotionally resonant |
| 5 | Shinzou wo Sasageyo! | Attack on Titan | Linked Horizon | Rock/Orchestral | Epic and motivational battle cry |
| 6 | Bloody Stream | JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure | Coda | Jazz/Pop | Vibrant and stylish, perfect for JoJo |
| 7 | Gurenge | Demon Slayer | LiSA | Rock/Traditional | Modern classic with global appeal |
| 8 | The Hero!! | One Punch Man | JAM Project | Rock | High-energy and satirical |
| 9 | Blue Bird | Naruto: Shippuden | Ikimono-Gakari | Pop | Uplifting and nostalgic |
| 10 | Again | Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood | YUI | Rock/Pop | Introspective and motivational |
Why These Songs Resonate Across Generations
Anime theme songs have a unique ability to transcend time and borders. They’re not just background music—they’re cultural artifacts that connect fans across generations. Songs like Moonlight Densetsu evoke the 90s magical girl era, while modern hits like Gurenge resonate with today’s streaming generation. Their universal appeal lies in their ability to capture universal emotions—hope, struggle, triumph—that speak to fans worldwide. Social media platforms like TikTok have amplified their reach, with songs like Unravel inspiring viral trends. As an anime fan, I’ve seen how these songs spark conversations at conventions, uniting strangers over shared nostalgia.
How to Curate Your Anime Music Playlist
Want to relive the magic of these theme songs? Here’s how to build the ultimate anime music playlist:
- Stream on Spotify: Check out playlists like Anime Openings (Top 100) for a curated selection of iconic tracks.
- Mix Old and New: Balance classics like Tank! with modern hits like Gurenge for variety.
- Include Endings: Don’t skip ending themes—songs like The Real Folk Blues from Cowboy Bebop are just as iconic.
- Explore Covers: Look for fan covers or live performances on YouTube to add fresh spins to your favorites.
- Karaoke Nights: Host a karaoke night with friends to belt out A Cruel Angel’s Thesis or Blue Bird.
FAQ: Your Burning Questions About Anime Theme Songs Answered
Q: What makes A Cruel Angel’s Thesis so iconic?
A: Its blend of catchy J-pop, emotional depth, and perfect synergy with Neon Genesis Evangelion’s themes make it a standout. Its enduring popularity in karaoke and polls cements its status.
Q: Are anime openings better than endings?
A: Not necessarily! Openings like Unravel set the tone, but endings like The Real Folk Blues from Cowboy Bebop offer emotional closure. It depends on the show and your preference.
Q: Why do some anime keep the same opening for multiple seasons?
A: Shows like Hunter x Hunter stick with one opening (Departure!) to maintain consistency and reinforce themes. Others change openings to reflect new arcs or tones.
Q: How can I find new anime theme songs to love?
A: Check out seasonal anime charts on MyAnimeList or follow anime music playlists on streaming platforms to discover fresh tracks.
Q: Do English dub theme songs count?
A: Absolutely! Songs like the Pokémon Theme are iconic in their own right, especially for Western fans who grew up with them.
Conclusion: The Soundtrack of Our Anime Journey
Anime theme songs are more than just music—they’re the heartbeat of the stories we love. From the jazzy cool of Tank! to the emotional depth of Unravel, these songs capture the essence of their series while becoming part of our personal soundtracks. Ranking them is no easy task, as each fan has their own favorites tied to memories and moments. For me, A Cruel Angel’s Thesis reigns supreme, not just for its infectious melody but for its ability to evoke the complex emotions of my teenage years. Whether you’re revisiting classics or discovering new bangers, these songs remind us why anime is such a powerful medium.
What’s Next?
- Create Your Playlist: Start with the top 10 listed here and explore more on streaming platforms.
- Share Your Favorites: Comment below or hit up social media to share your top picks—did I miss any?
- Dive Deeper: Watch the anime tied to these songs to experience their full impact.
- Sing Along: Grab a mic and channel your inner Yoko Takahashi at your next karaoke night.
Let these songs transport you back to your favorite anime moments, and keep the music playing as you explore new worlds. What’s your favorite anime theme song, and why does it hold a special place in your heart?