11 Anime Opening Songs Fans Just Can’t Skip

11 Anime Opening Songs Fans Just Can’t Skip

Anime opening songs aren’t just catchy tunes—they’re the perfect gateway into the show’s world. They set the mood, hint at the story, and often become more iconic than the anime itself. From heart-pumping battle anthems to emotional ballads, these openings stick with us long after we’ve finished watching. Here are 11 legendary anime opening songs that fans simply can’t resist watching every single time.

1. Gurenge – LiSA (Demon Slayer)

With electrifying guitar and LiSA’s commanding voice, this opening captures the heart of Demon Slayer—Tanjiro’s unshakable drive to save Nezuko and fight evil.

The song explodes with energy during the chorus, matching the breathtaking animation of Demon Slayer’s iconic sword techniques. Many fans learned to sing along in Japanese despite not speaking the language.

When “Gurenge” hit the charts in 2019, it broke records as one of the best-selling digital singles in Japan’s history, proving its appeal extends far beyond anime fans.

2. Cruel Angel’s Thesis – Yoko Takahashi (Neon Genesis Evangelion)

Its catchy tempo and retro synths mask the heavy psychological weight of the show. Since its 1995 debut, this opening has become an anime classic—echoing through conventions and karaoke nights for decades.

The lyrics speak of becoming a legend and facing destiny—themes that resonate with Shinji’s journey throughout the series. Yoko Takahashi’s voice carries both playfulness and urgency that hooks listeners immediately.

Fun fact: The song was composed in just two hours and recorded the next day, yet it’s stood the test of time as an anime anthem that transcends generations.

3. Tank! – The Seatbelts (Cowboy Bebop)

The moment this opening hits, jazz blasts through your speakers—saxophones, trumpets, and all—instantly setting Cowboy Bebop apart from your average anime soundtrack.

Created by legendary composer Yoko Kanno, this instrumental masterpiece captures the space western’s cool factor without needing a single lyric. The fast-paced tempo mirrors the show’s action sequences and bounty hunting adventures.

Directors often recommend watching Cowboy Bebop’s opening every episode because the animation contains unique storytelling elements. The song has influenced countless musicians and has been covered by jazz bands worldwide.

4. Again – YUI (Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood)

YUI’s raspy voice carries raw emotion that connects instantly with Edward Elric’s determination to restore his brother’s body. The opening guitar riff alone is enough to give fans goosebumps.

As the first opening to one of anime’s most beloved series, “Again” had to set a high bar—and it delivered. The chorus builds with intensity that matches the brothers’ desperate quest and the show’s themes of sacrifice.

The lyrics about moving forward despite pain resonate deeply with viewers. Many fans consider this the perfect anime opening because it balances catchy melody with emotional depth while perfectly representing the story.

5. Silhouette – KANA-BOON (Naruto Shippuden)

The 16th opening of Naruto Shippuden bursts with bouncy guitars and high energy, thanks to KANA-BOON’s perfect mix of rock and pop—capturing the show’s shift toward darker themes without losing its heart.

The visuals showcase Naruto and his friends’ growth, with fluid animation that highlights their ninja abilities. Fans particularly love the sequence of Naruto running toward the camera—a moment that encapsulates his never-give-up attitude.

Released during a pivotal story arc, this opening became an anthem for longtime viewers who had followed Naruto’s journey for years.

6. Unravel – TK from Ling Tosite Sigure (Tokyo Ghoul)

Haunting piano notes transition into raw, emotional screams that mirror protagonist Kaneki’s painful transformation. The contrast between soft verses and intense chorus captures the dual nature of humans and ghouls.

Fans worldwide attempt to hit those high notes during karaoke sessions. The song has become so popular that even people who haven’t watched Tokyo Ghoul recognize its distinctive melody.

TK’s unique vocal style perfectly embodies the psychological horror and identity crisis themes central to the show. The iconic “oshiete oshiete” opening line has spawned countless memes in the anime community.

7. The World – Nightmare (Death Note)

With pounding guitars and haunting vocals, the opening theme captures Death Note’s sinister energy and Light’s twisted ambition from the very start.

Red and black visuals featuring falling apples symbolize temptation and sin—themes central to the cat-and-mouse game between Light and L. The English phrases mixed with Japanese lyrics give the song international appeal.

Nightmare’s performance captures the intensity of Light’s ambition to create a new world order. The opening’s popularity helped cement Death Note as a gateway anime for many new fans, particularly those with interest in rock music.

8. Cha-La Head-Cha-La – Hironobu Kageyama (Dragon Ball Z)

Nostalgia hits hard with this legendary opening that introduced millions of 90s kids to anime. Hironobu Kageyama’s powerful vocals soar as Goku flies through the clouds, creating an unforgettable childhood memory for fans worldwide.

The song’s title makes little sense in any language, yet everyone knows the words. Its energetic pace perfectly captures the fighting spirit of Dragon Ball Z, making viewers pumped for each episode’s battles.

Multiple versions exist across different countries, but the original Japanese version remains the gold standard. The song has been remixed, covered, and performed live at countless concerts, cementing its status as anime royalty.

9. Crossing Field – LiSA (Sword Art Online)

LiSA appears twice on this list for good reason—her powerful vocals perfectly capture the life-or-death stakes of being trapped in a virtual world. The song builds from gentle piano to an explosive chorus that mirrors Kirito’s journey from solo player to hero.

Released when the isekai genre was gaining popularity, “Crossing Field” helped establish Sword Art Online as a mainstream hit. The lyrics about fighting to return to reality resonate with the show’s central premise.

Even critics who dislike aspects of the anime admit the opening song is undeniably catchy. The melody sticks in your head after just one listen, making it impossible not to sing along.

10. My Dearest – supercell (Guilty Crown)

Breathtaking visuals paired with emotional vocals make this opening unforgettable. Many fans agree that “My Dearest” outshines the actual show, with its stunning animation and heartfelt delivery by vocalist Koeda.

The song starts softly before building to a powerful chorus that showcases the singer’s impressive range. Cherry blossoms falling symbolize the beauty and fragility of life—themes central to Guilty Crown’s story.

Supercell, the group behind the song, is known for creating emotionally resonant music that elevates anime openings to art. The combination of piano, strings, and rock elements creates a dramatic atmosphere that hooks viewers immediately.

11. Peace Sign – Kenshi Yonezu (My Hero Academia)

Kenshi Yonezu’s distinctive voice brings uplifting energy to this superhero anthem. As the second opening of My Hero Academia, “Peace Sign” perfectly captures Deku’s journey from quirkless boy to hero-in-training.

The upbeat tempo and triumphant chorus make viewers feel like they too can overcome any obstacle. Animation showcases Class 1-A’s unique powers and personalities while building excitement for the U.A. Sports Festival arc.

Yonezu, one of Japan’s most popular musicians outside of anime, brought mainstream attention to the series with this hit. The peace sign gesture mentioned in the song became a symbol for fans to show their love for the series at conventions.