We’re a bit late this time, but let’s just say there were way too many contenders to sift through (and there definitely were)! We’ve compiled the best opening and ending anime theme songs of 2024 based on our simple, subjective criterion: “it’s a banger”. Our focus is primarily on the music rather than the anime itself—though great music often pairs with great anime.

Let’s dive in and enjoy the best anime songs of 2024, listed in no particular order!

Danger Danger

FZMZ

CDJapan

FZMZ (pronounced “Fathoms”) takes things up a notch by featuring guest vocalist “Icy”, revealed to be Reol herself. The pairing of SiM‘s vocalist MAH, and Reol, is an unexpected collaboration we didn’t know we needed. With its game-centric theme, the song fits perfectly with the anime that has the protagonist explore a new game that is unlike any other.

If you’re interested in learning more about MAH’s involment in anime music, read our interview here.

Running In My Head

MIYAVI

CDJapan

MIYAVI continues to make waves in the anime scene, all while juggling appearances on a reality entertainment show in China and traveling across continents. This time, he delivers a fierce headbanging track, with his intense expressions captured in a music video set in a dystopian industrial landscape.

In case you didn’t know, MIYAVI is also an actor who made successful appearances even in Hollywood, but more importantly, he appeared in the live action Bleach movie! Read more about his acting experience in our interview here.

Maoh feat. Nao Toyama

魔王 feat.東山奈央

BURNOUT SYNDROMES

CDJapan

BURNOUT SYNDROMES theatrical performance of Maoh is a true spectacle, blending symphonic elements with rock. It also features a surprise rap section by Toyama Nao, one of the voice actresses in the anime.

Cult

カルト

saji

iTunes

saji, formerly known as phatmans after school, delivers another fast-paced track with sharp riffs in Kannousei Liberation. It’s empowering and carries that shounen anime determination vibe, setting the stage for the intense action of Ragna Crimson.

Ta ga Tame

誰我為

TK from Ling tosite sigure

CDJapan

With a music video that feels more like a movie, TK from Ling tosite sigure delivers a cinematic performance of Ta ga tame that is profound, intense, and stirring. Fans of the metalcore band Crossfaith might recognize the furry drum set, and indeed, it’s played by Amano Tatsuya, who supports TK and also YOASOBI.

Sayonara, Subarashiki Sekai yo

さよなら、素晴らしき世界よ

Mayu Maeshima

iTunes

One of the most powerful songs of 2024, despite its poignancy, is delivered by Mayu Maeshima (former MYTH & ROID singer). Sayonara, Subarashiki Sekai carries a melancholic, heart-wrenching tone that mirrors the anime’s tragic despair. However, the song’s emotional depth feels almost too beautiful for the anime to do it justice—but we digress.

Hai to Inori

灰ト祈リ

GEMS COMPANY

CDJapan

iTunes

Hai to Inori, by the virtual idol group GEMS COMPANY, is a stunning extension of Nier:Automata, with lyrics by Yoko Taro and music by Keiichi Okabe, both key figures behind the Nier series. Sadly, GEMS COMPANY is restructuring, so the nine-member lineup as seen Hai to Inori is no more.

Hazard Symbol

ハザードシンボル

Yuyu

CDJapan

With music composed by Vocaloid producer and utaite mafumafu, newly debuted singer yuyu—winner of the 2022 Grand Prix “Inukon! Flying Dog 15th Anniversary Artist Search Audition”—performs the ominous track Hazard Symbol. The song draws inspiration from the anime’s exclamation road sign, which marks the occurrence of an occult event.

Scarlet

ダズビー

DAZBEE

iTunes

Continuing the trend of more Korean musicians making their mark on our list and the anime scene, DAZBEE, an utaite of Korean origin, excellently captures the dark, dystopic, and inequality that the anime portrays.

UMBRA

ELFENSJóN

CDJapan

ELFENSJóN makes its anime debut with the poignant and melancholic track UMBRA, featuring guest vocalist YURiCa (Hanatan). As expected, YURiCa’s remarkable vocal abilities perfectly convey the song’s deep sense of longing and sorrow, bringing the emotional weight of UMBRA to life elegantly.

soumonka

相聞詩

sokoninaru

CDJapan

sokoninaru is yet another band on our list making their anisong debut in 2024, hitting the scene hard with their energetic and catchy track soumonka. The band captures the dark and mysterious theme of the anime through the music video, serving as an excellent complement.

Abyss-Over

Chogakusei

iTunes

Utaite Chogakusei delivers the energetic ending theme Abyss-Over, born from the “Gakusei × Vocaloid P” project, where a student collaborates with an established Vocaloid producer. The track blends Powerless (MuryokuP)‘s intricate arrangement with Karasuyasabou’s powerful composition.

Eye's Sentry

UVERworld

CDJapan

UVERworld delivers a powerful track for Ao no Exorcist, with their signature blend of hard-hitting rock and melodic hooks. The song captures a sense of regretful emotion, adding depth to the anime’s atmosphere.

Fatal

ファタール

GEMN , Kitani Tatsuya

CDJapan

The dynamic duo GEMN, consisting of Kitani Tatsuya and Nakajima Kento, delivers an energetic punch with Fatal. It offers lively industrial beats, and its dramatic intensity matches well with the narrative of this season of Oshi no Ko.

Otonoke

オトノケ

Creepy Nuts

CDJapan

With a clear reference to the anime, Creepy Nuts‘ Otonoke kicks off with the iconic intro-lyrics “DAN DA DAN”, setting the stage for the duo’s signature unconventional style. Creepy Nuts has once again captivated listeners, with the music video already nearing 50 million views just three months after its release.

Mugen / Tokoshie

夢幻/永久 -トコシエ-

HYDE , MY FIRST STORY

CDJapan

Having HYDE and MY FIRST STORY collaborate is already an epic pairing, but adding Yuki Kajiura as the composer for Tokoshie takes it to another level! Thanks to Kajiura’s composition, we’re treated to HYDE’s dark and mysterious vocals woven into an ethereal, emotionally charged track that’s nothing short of mesmerizing.

We recently had the opportunity to cover HYDE’s amazing world tour which you can read here, and if you’re in for more, you can read our interview where HYDE talks about his US expansion.

kirin

Regallily

CDJapan

The soft tunes of Twinkling Ash bring a bittersweet, fleeting sound, telling a story of facing challenges and struggles. The sense of longing and wonder reminds us of the journey of the main protagonists in Dungeon Meshi, who, despite constant friction and hardship, continue to find a glimmer of hope along their path.

Akairo

アカイロ

Hana Hope

CDJapan

Hana Hope, relatively new to the anime scene but stands out with her wistful and gentle voice, evoking sorrow, warmth, and serenity. In Akairo, she delivers a haunting ballad that blends longing and love, capturing a sense of quiet vulnerability.

Rokutosei

六等星

ZARAME

CDJapan

iTunes

Rokutousei is a heartfelt track with powerful instrumentals that has earned ZARAME a spot on THE FIRST TAKE, the renowned YouTube channel showcasing raw, one-take performances by exceptional artists. The song’s delicate elements are amplified by ZARAME’s soft, expressive vocals, which shine with vulnerability and authenticity.

Koufuku no Susume

幸福のすゝめ

LEEVELLES

iTunes

LEEVELLES (pronounced “Riiberusu” in Japanese) shines with Koufuku no Susume, a track that combines stylish rock with intricate riffs. The moment the vocals come in, they command attention with their mysterious and hypnotic delivery, creating an lasting impression. As a rising band, LEEVELLES is one to watch—be sure to follow their journey and support their growth!

Otowa

オトワ

Taiyo to Odore Tsukiyo ni Utae

CDJapan

“Taiyo to Odore, Tsukiyo ni Utae” may have only kicked off their journey in mid-2023, but they’ve been dropping bangers ever since! Their first single, Otowa, is a bold introduction, with Watanabe Sho (formerly of sajo no hana) behind the composition magic. The music video, like the anime, takes place in a world where angels and devils clash.

Tsuyogaru Girl feat. Mossa (Necry Talkie)

つよがるガール feat. もっさ (ネクライトーキー)

BotchiBoromaru , NECRY TALKIE

CDJapan

Perhaps the most upbeat and lively track on the list, TSUYOGARU by BotchiBoromaru featuring Mossa from NECRY TALKIE. It bursts with youthful energy and uplifting vibes, making it a true spirit-lifter that’s guaranteed to get your excitement soaring!

Zettai Reido

絶対零度

Natori

iTunes

Unexpectedly, after picking up natori’s Zettai Reido digital release and listening to it the bigger part of the year, we only just realized how incredibly popular it has become when we were adding the music video to this list. Amassing 25 million views, Zettai Reido is as intense and chaotic as the anime’s fight scenes, while also capturing the quirky and goofy part of the anime as well.

KATAWARA

STEREO DIVE FOUNDATION

iTunes

STEREO DIVE FOUNDATION‘s KATAWARA is definitely an overlooked track, and we just had to highlight it for its well-executed fusion of traditional Japanese elements and modern electronic beats. While the anime might look like it’s for kids, it packs a surprisingly complex plot with darker tones.

We have multiple interview with STEREO DIVE FOUNDATION in case you’re interested in learning more about his anime music.

Senaka Awase

セナカアワセ

AliA

iTunes

With so many anime projects under their belt in 2024, it’s hard to pick just one from AliA and their vocalist AYAME. However, Senaka Awase stands out for its empowering, vibrant sound, and masterful composition. The song’s arrangement feels carefully crafted, intentionally building up impact at just the right moments.

Kara no Hako

空の箱

TOGENASHI TOGEARI

iTunes

Kara no Hako, also known as VOID, is an insert song featured in the first episode of GIRLS BAND CRY. If this track piques your interest, there’s plenty more to discover, as the series dives into the formation of TOGENASHI TOGEARI and showcases music from other bands too throughout the story.

We hope you liked our picks! Leave a comment below if we missed your favorite anisong!

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