CultureHead Magazine

Image courtesy of Bones
Image courtesy of Bones

In recent years the popularity of anime has taken off, especially with the numerous categories meant to fit just about anyone’s preferences. For those who hold an anime dear to our hearts, you can guarantee the music also lends a hand to the hype. Recently, I have found myself really vibing with songs from my favorite shows and decided to compile them into a personal top five.

#5.Gurenge by Lisa (Kimetsu No Yaiba AKA Demon Slayer)

Top Five Anime Songs That Truly Slap CultureHead Magazine
Courtesy of Ufotable

      The singer Lisa is no stranger to anime intros having a significant number under her belt. From shows such as Angel Beats and Sword Art Online, I can guarantee that you have heard at least one of her songs. Gurenge is the latest intro from the breakout anime Kimetsu No Yaiba (Demon Slayer). This song mirrors the show entirely with its gentle start that gradually intensifies, leaving the listener inspired. Much like the main characters Tanjiro and his sister Nezuko, we watch the duo evolve from their once-peaceful life to becoming a formidable team. If you haven’t already, I suggest listening to this song in its full version, as the snippet from the show does not do it enough justice. 


#4. Weight of My Pride by Pay Money To My Pain (Hajime No Ippo: Rising)

Top Five Anime Songs That Truly Slap CultureHead Magazine
Courtesy of MADHOUSE Inc.

This music belongs to the infamous Hajime No Ippo (The First Step), a long-running and popular manga about boxing adapted to animation. It introduces the show’s third season, Hajime No Ippo: Rising, and is fitting for this season. We see the characters not only face off against some of their most formidable opponents yet but themselves as well. It highlights just how far each character will go to achieve their goals. As the name suggests, you can almost feel the heaviness of this song. I particularly like the message it relays; just how far will we go for our dreams, and is it selfish pride that propels us forward? The below listed is the live version, but if you want a better feeling for the song, I suggest giving the studio version a listen first. 


#3. Sora Ni Utaeba by Amazarashi (Boku No Hero Academia AKA My Hero Academia)

Top Five Anime Songs That Truly Slap CultureHead Magazine
Courtesy of Bones

This intro needs no introduction as it belongs to one of the hottest anime out right now, Boku No Hero Academia (My Hero Academia). It starts off strong and full of hope, much like young Deku, who mimics many of us when admiring our favorite heroes. The song’s beat and flow continue to climb, filling the listener with the very same hope. The message in its lyrics tells the listener to keep going towards tomorrow, no matter what comes their way. The journey may be challenging, but the fight must continue. For those who have watched the show or read the manga, you are well aware that every single character embodies this message and, yes, even the villains.


#2. Ignite by Eir Aoi (Sword Art Online)

Top Five Anime Songs That Truly Slap CultureHead Magazine
Courtesy of A-1 Pictures

Belonging to Sword Art Online‘s third season, known as the Phantom Bullet arc, this intro is a definite contender for the top spot. Its lyrics speak of fighting despite the tough cards in life we are dealt with and not being bound by our mistakes. The song’s beginning is fierce and definitely gives off the never-give-up vibe. The ending is just as strong and leaves the listener (at least me) with renewed motivation to keep kicking ass despite it all. 


#1. Unravel by TK from Ling Tosite Sigure (Tokyo Ghoul)

Top Five Anime Songs That Truly Slap CultureHead Magazine
Image by Studio Pierrot

This song had a lot of competition but in the end, was the clear winner for the top spot. The Tokyo Ghoul opening begins with a gentle serenade of passionate vocals backed by a beautiful melody. This lasts for a few seconds, and if you aren’t convinced at that time, I urge you to keep listening. Around the 30 second mark is when the song really picks up in the best way. It continues this dance of strong vocals with an even stronger melody, both continually vying for the listener’s attention without outshining the other. Not only did TK bless our ears with this song, but he took it a step further and also gave us an acoustic version. Yes, the vocals are legit, in case you were wondering.

These were my personal top five for now, but I have a feeling that these songs are always going to have to fight for their spot as the years and shows keep coming out. I’ll keep you posted on anything else that piques my interest in the world of anime openings so keep an eye out!

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