Anime opening themes have a unique charm, offering a glimpse into the world and emotions of a show before the story begins. Here’s a look at some of the best anime openings of all time, their background, and the reasons they are cherished by fans.
Table Of Contents
- 1. “Bling-Bang-Bang-Born” – Mashle: Magic and Muscles (Season 2)
- 2. “Otonoke” – Dandadan
- 3. “LEveL” – Solo Leveling
- 4. “Idol” – Oshi no Ko
- 5. “Haru” – Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End (Cour 2)
- 6. “Kick Back” – Chainsaw Man
- 7. “Gurenge” – Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba
- 8. “Silhouette” – Naruto: Shippuden
- 9. “Tank!” – Cowboy Bebop
- 10. “Kaikai Kitan” – Jujutsu Kaisen
- 11. “Again” – Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood
- 12. “Specialz” – Jujutsu Kaisen: Shibuya Incident Arc
- 13. “We Are!” – One Piece
- 14. “Ambivalent” – The Apothecary Diaries (Cour 2)
- 15. “Blue Bird” – Naruto: Shippuden
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1. “Bling-Bang-Bang-Born” – Mashle: Magic and Muscles (Season 2)
- Artist: Creepy Nuts
- Release Year: 2024
- Streaming Service: Crunchyroll
About: This vibrant opening set the tone for Mashle’s second season, combining hip-hop beats with energetic visuals that mirror the protagonist’s “muscle magic” charm. It became the most-streamed anime theme of 2024, proving its global appeal. The infectious rhythm and quirky lyrics highlight the series’ comedic yet action-packed essence.
2. “Otonoke” – Dandadan
- Artist: Creepy Nuts
- Release Year: 2024
- Streaming Service: Crunchyroll
About: A fresh addition to anime openings, “Otonoke” mixes frantic energy with supernatural vibes, capturing Dandadan’s chaotic spirit. The song quickly went viral, with fans lauding its ability to evoke the show’s unique blend of romance, action, and otherworldly antics. Its growing popularity also reflects the anime’s rise to fame.
3. “LEveL” – Solo Leveling
- Artist: Sawano Hiroyuki feat. TOMORROW X TOGETHER
- Release Year: 2024
- Streaming Service: Crunchyroll
About: This cinematic theme, composed by renowned musician Sawano Hiroyuki, pairs perfectly with Solo Leveling’s intense battles and epic narrative. Featuring TOMORROW X TOGETHER’s soaring vocals, the song creates an emotional and atmospheric experience, immersing viewers in the protagonist’s rise from weakness to dominance.
4. “Idol” – Oshi no Ko
- Artist: YOASOBI
- Release Year: 2023
- Streaming Service: HIDIVE
About: “Idol” tells a captivating story through its lyrics, mirroring Oshi no Ko’s exploration of fame and deception. YOASOBI’s mastery of narrative-driven music is on full display, with the track’s upbeat tempo contrasting its darker themes. Its immense popularity helped Oshi no Ko gain global recognition.
5. “Haru” – Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End (Cour 2)
- Artist: Yorushika
- Release Year: 2024
- Streaming Service: Crunchyroll
About: A delicate and heartfelt track, “Haru” explores themes of nostalgia and healing, reflecting Frieren’s journey as she revisits memories of her companions. Yorushika’s evocative composition and lyrics resonate deeply, making it a fan-favorite among anime enthusiasts who love introspective storytelling.
6. “Kick Back” – Chainsaw Man
- Artist: Kenshi Yonezu
- Release Year: 2022
- Streaming Service: Crunchyroll
About: Chaotic yet mesmerizing, “Kick Back” embodies the unfiltered madness of Chainsaw Man. Kenshi Yonezu’s explosive vocals, paired with surreal visuals, create a memorable introduction to one of the most unpredictable anime in recent years.
7. “Gurenge” – Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba
- Artist: LiSA
- Release Year: 2019
- Streaming Service: Crunchyroll
About: LiSA’s powerful performance in “Gurenge” captured the emotional depth of Demon Slayer, symbolizing Tanjiro’s struggles and determination. Its blend of traditional and modern elements makes it a timeless anthem that continues to inspire.
8. “Silhouette” – Naruto: Shippuden
- Artist: Kana-Boon
- Release Year: 2014
- Streaming Service: Netflix
About: “Silhouette” is an uplifting track that reflects Naruto’s journey of self-discovery and resilience. Its motivational lyrics and captivating visuals make it one of the most cherished openings in anime history, holding a special place in fans’ hearts.
9. “Tank!” – Cowboy Bebop
- Artist: Yoko Kanno and The Seatbelts
- Release Year: 1998
- Streaming Service: Netflix
About: A genre-defining jazz masterpiece, “Tank!” sets the tone for Cowboy Bebop’s stylish and action-packed narrative. Yoko Kanno’s innovative composition ensures the track’s enduring legacy among anime and music fans alike.
10. “Kaikai Kitan” – Jujutsu Kaisen
- Artist: Eve
- Release Year: 2020
- Streaming Service: Crunchyroll
About: Eve’s dark yet energetic track captures the eerie and action-filled essence of Jujutsu Kaisen. The pulsating beat and vivid animation elevate the opening, making it unforgettable
11. “Again” – Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood
- Artist: Yui
- Release Year: 2009
- Streaming Service: Netflix
About: Yui’s emotional vocals in “Again” mirror the Elric brothers’ struggles and determination. This opening is a perfect mix of sorrow and hope, beautifully introducing viewers to the anime’s deep themes.
12. “Specialz” – Jujutsu Kaisen: Shibuya Incident Arc
- Artist: King Gnu
- Release Year: 2024
- Streaming Service: Crunchyroll
About: Stylish and intense, “Specialz” captures the chaotic energy of the Shibuya Incident Arc. King Gnu’s unique sound complements the arc’s high-stakes battles and emotional turmoil.
13. “We Are!” – One Piece
- Artist: Hiroshi Kitadani
- Release Year: 1999
- Streaming Service: Crunchyroll
About: The iconic anthem of One Piece, “We Are!” celebrates friendship and adventure. Its enduring popularity reflects the anime’s status as a cultural phenomenon.
14. “Ambivalent” – The Apothecary Diaries (Cour 2)
- Artist: Uru
- Release Year: 2024
- Streaming Service: Crunchyroll
About: Playful yet mysterious, “Ambivalent” perfectly captures the intrigue of The Apothecary Diaries. Uru’s vocals enhance the whimsical yet cunning atmosphere of the show.
15. “Blue Bird” – Naruto: Shippuden
- Artist: Ikimono Gakari
- Release Year: 2008
- Streaming Service: Netflix
About: A serene yet motivational track, “Blue Bird” remains a beloved opening for its uplifting melody and stunning animation. It embodies the essence of hope and perseverance.
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