There are all sorts of elements that go into a memorable anime. You want it to have a great story with fun characters, and stellar animation is usually a plus. However, a great soundtrack can elevate a good series into being an amazing one. Opening and ending themes are one thing, but we’re talking about the background music that complements action scenes and meaningful moments. These are the songs that are on our workout playlist, the tracks that we add to our daily commutes, the music that lets us place ourselves in the shoes of our favorite characters as we go about our days.
Anime soundtracks are full of emotion and depth and truly evoke the essence of what a show illustrates. There are so many to choose from and even more individual tracks to point out in each setlist. We’re here to highlight some of the most notable and beloved anime soundtracks, including a few personal favorites. Fair warning: we’re probably definitely listening to some of these soundtracks as we’re working on this list.
1. “Attack on Titan”
Throughout his decadeslong career, Hiroyuki Sawano has composed several epic soundtracks for anime shows. Perhaps one of his most notable works, however, comes with his work on “Attack on Titan.” His score was as giant and bombastic as the Titans that populate the world and the Scout Regiment troops who fight against them. Every nape slice, explosion, and midair thrust is punctuated perfectly with Sawano’s music.
2. “My Hero Academia”
It’s no stretch to say that “My Hero Academia” inspired enthusiasts everywhere to hit the gym after seeing Izuku Midoriya work his hardest to become a hero. Naturally, Yuki Hayashi’s compositions made for perfect workout playlist material. If you ask any anime fan what they’re listening to while lifting or running, it’s probably “You Say Run.” Take a listen if you haven’t before and it’ll be on your own playlist soon enough.
3. “You and Idol Precure”
Magical girls and Japanese idols make for a peanut butter and chocolate combination in “You and Idol Precure.” Of course, the fun and bubbly series is backed by a soundtrack filled with character songs that encourage you to cheer for your favorite. No matter who’s in the spotlight when these magical idols are taking on evil, their songs will have you dancing and cheering them on.
4. “Tojima Wants to Be a Kamen Rider”
The protagonist of this 2025 series proves that you’re never too old to chase your dreams, even if those dreams involve becoming your favorite childhood hero and taking on actual monsters. That said, the masked heroes of “Tojima Wants to Be a Kamen Rider” each have their own amazing theme songs by Japanese DJ TeddyLoid (featuring several guest vocalists) that add exhilarating personal touches to each fight.
5. “Sailor Moon”
When you think of this classic magical girl anime from the 1990s, a few things should come to mind. There are the flashy transformations, gorgeous attacks, and of course, the music that goes with all of them. The Japanese soundtrack of the “Sailor Moon” anime is filled with beautiful and inspiring tracks that make one of the most influential anime of all time even more memorable.
6. “Haikyu!”
We return once again to the glorious compositions of Yuki Hayashi and his work on “Haikyu!” His music helps to add tremendous flourish to the Karasuno team’s plays as they climb the ranks of high school volleyball. It’s the perfect mix of inspiring and heart-pounding beats to jam to as you strive for greater heights.
7. “Darker Than Black” Season 1
The exciting and poppy jazz sounds of Yoko Kanno already get a lot of praise when it comes to her work on “Cowboy Bebop.” That said, her music in the first season of “Darker Than Black” deserves a little love too. Between sweeping action songs and moody blues pieces, Kanno continues to be in top form in this underrated gem of the mid-2000s.
8. “Bocchi the Rock”
Drawing heavy inspiration from the J-rock scene, “Bocchi the Rock” delivers some excellent original songs that are sure to bring out your inner moody teen. The eponymous guitarist may suffer from severe social anxiety, but her riffs on the songs for “Kessoku Band” help bring the show to life.
9. “Jojo’s Bizarre Adventure”
Each arc of the sprawling “Jojo’s Bizarre Adventure” series is accompanied by some unforgettable music. Every protagonist comes with their own theme and many of them have even reached viral fame and meme status when they were first introduced. Just listen to “Il Vento D’oro,” and you will understand why.
10. “Carole and Tuesday”
Music is at the forefront of the storytelling in “Carole and Tuesday.” The series features a whole host of different singers representing different genres and styles with grace. If you want vibey guitars, hip-hop, R&B, or even a song that’s almost entirely explicit language, this show has you covered.
What’s your favorite anime soundtrack? Which songs do you listen to the most? Let us know in the comments!
