An anime opening isn’t just a theme song; it’s a promise. In under two minutes, it sets the tone, introduces the emotional stakes, and gives viewers a taste of the journey ahead. The very best openings go beyond catchy melodies; they become cultural landmarks, instantly recognizable from the first note and forever tied to the stories they represent. From high-energy shonen anthems to haunting alternative rock ballads and genre-defying jazz masterpieces, these songs have defined eras of anime fandom. Whether you grew up recording episodes on VHS or streaming the latest seasonal hit, these 15 iconic openings prove that sometimes the intro is just as legendary as the show itself.
15. Cha-La Head-Cha-La – Dragon Ball Z
Performed by Hironobu Kageyama, Cha-La Head-Cha-La is pure shonen adrenaline. Its upbeat rock instrumentation and sky-high vocals perfectly capture the adventurous spirit of Goku and friends, turning every episode into a promise of epic battles and unwavering optimism.
Decades after its debut, the song remains a karaoke staple and a nostalgic time machine for ’90s kids worldwide. Few openings embody perseverance and joy quite like this one. It’s the musical equivalent of powering up for one more fight.
14. Idol – Oshi no Ko
YOASOBI’s Idol exploded onto the global stage with a dazzling mix of pop precision and emotional intensity. The track mirrors the anime’s exploration of fame, identity, and the darkness hidden behind sparkling smiles.
With rapid tempo shifts and layered vocals, the song feels like a sonic rollercoaster. Its viral success proved that anime openings can dominate international charts while delivering sharp commentary on modern celebrity culture.
13. Imagination – Haikyuu!!
Performed by SPYAIR, Imagination bursts with youthful ambition and drive. Its high-energy rock sound matches the relentless determination of Karasuno’s volleyball team.
The soaring chorus and motivational lyrics turn every match into a moment of triumph. Even years later, it remains one of sports anime’s most electrifying rallying cries.
12. Duvet – Serial Experiments Lain
British band Bôa delivers a haunting alternative rock track that perfectly complements Lain’s introspective tone. Duvet stands out for its subdued, melancholic atmosphere.
Its gentle guitar work and reflective lyrics mirror the anime’s themes of identity and digital isolation. The result is an opening that feels timeless and eerily prophetic.
11. Battlecry – Samurai Champloo
Crafted by Nujabes and Shing02, Battlecry fuses hip-hop with Edo-era aesthetics. The smooth beats and poetic flow immediately signal that this isn’t your typical samurai tale.
The track’s laid-back yet confident vibe shaped the show’s identity and influenced the rise of lo-fi hip-hop culture. It remains a genre-defying masterpiece.
10. Bloody Stream – JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure
Performed by Coda, Bloody Stream bursts with jazzy flair and flamboyant energy. Its bold brass sections and dramatic vocals perfectly match JoJo’s signature style.
The vibrant visuals and infectious groove make every episode feel like a spectacle. It’s impossible not to snap along to its funky rhythm.
9. 99 – Mob Psycho 100
Performed by Mob Choir, 99 builds intensity by literally counting upward, mirroring Mob’s escalating psychic power. The frantic pacing matches the show’s explosive action and emotional growth.
Paired with kaleidoscopic visuals, the song becomes an immersive experience. It’s chaotic, catchy, and endlessly replayable.
8. Zankyosanka – Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba – Entertainment District Arc
Aimer’s powerful vocals drive this intense opening. Zankyosanka blends urgency and elegance, matching the arc’s high-stakes drama.
The combination of stunning animation and sweeping melody elevates the viewing experience. It’s a masterclass in modern anime hype-building.
7. The Hero!! – One-Punch Man
Performed by JAM Project, this heavy metal anthem is pure, unapologetic hype. The aggressive vocals and blazing instrumentals fit Saitama’s overpowered absurdity.
The explosive visuals and tongue-in-cheek intensity make it unforgettable. It’s an opening that dares you not to shout along.
6. Unravel – Tokyo Ghoul
Sung by Toru Kitajima (TK), Unravel captures emotional fragility and inner turmoil. The song’s gradual build mirrors Kaneki’s painful transformation.
Its haunting melody and explosive chorus turned it into one of the most covered anime songs ever. Few openings hit as hard emotionally.
5. Blue Bird – Naruto Shippuden
Performed by Ikimono Gakari, Blue Bird soars with optimism and determination. Its uplifting melody perfectly reflects Naruto’s unyielding spirit.
The imagery of flight and perseverance resonates deeply with fans. It remains one of the franchise’s most beloved themes.
4. Again – Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood
YUI delivers a raw and emotional rock performance in Again. The song’s powerful chorus underscores themes of redemption and sacrifice.
The opening visuals celebrate the Elric brothers’ journey, blending action with emotional callbacks. It’s a triumphant anthem that still gives fans chills.
3. Gurenge – Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba
Performed by LiSA, Gurenge became a global sensation. Its blend of heartfelt lyrics and driving rock instrumentation embodies Tanjiro’s resolve.
The song dominated charts and award shows, proving anime music’s worldwide appeal. It’s both a battle cry and a tearjerker.
2. Tank! – Cowboy Bebop
Composed by Yoko Kanno and performed by The Seatbelts, Tank! is a jazz explosion. Its brass-driven momentum sets a stylish, noir tone.
The iconic “3, 2, 1, let’s jam!” intro alone guarantees instant recognition. It’s not just an anime opening, it’s a jazz classic.
1. A Cruel Angel’s Thesis – Neon Genesis Evangelion
Performed by Yoko Takahashi, this legendary opening transcends anime itself. The dynamic arrangement and philosophical lyrics perfectly complement Evangelion’s psychological depth.
Decades later, it remains a karaoke titan and cultural phenomenon. More than just a theme song, it’s an anthem that defines an entire era of anime fandom.
Anime openings have a unique power: they don’t just introduce a show, they shape how we remember it. A great OP can elevate a series, amplify its themes, and create a lasting emotional connection that lingers long after the final episode. These 15 songs prove that anime music is more than background noise; it’s an art form capable of crossing genres, languages, and generations. Whether you’re pressing “skip intro” or blasting these tracks on repeat, one thing’s certain: the best anime openings never truly fade; they echo forever.