13 Anime Openings So Catchy You Can’t Skip Them
One of the best parts of watching anime is hearing the opening theme at the start of each episode. These songs can stay in your head for days with their addictive melodies. The visuals often match the energy of the music, making the experience even stronger. For many fans, the opening becomes just as iconic as the story itself.
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A Cruel Angel’s Thesis – Neon Genesis Evangelion
This iconic opening from Neon Genesis Evangelion first aired in 1995. Sung by Yoko Takahashi, the song became instantly recognizable among anime fans worldwide. Its upbeat melody contrasts with the dark and complex themes of the series. The opening visuals are fast-paced and filled with symbolic images. The song quickly climbed charts in Japan and remains one of the most played anime themes. Its mix of dramatic music and striking animation made it unforgettable.
Fans cannot skip this opening because it sets the perfect tone for the series. The rhythm is energetic and keeps listeners hooked from the first note. Many cover versions and karaoke performances have kept the song popular for decades. It is often ranked as one of the best anime openings of all time. The blend of catchy lyrics and strong visuals leaves a lasting impression. Even those who have not seen the series recognize the opening instantly.
Tank – Cowboy Bebop
The opening song Tank was performed by The Seatbelts and aired in 1998 with Cowboy Bebop. It features a jazzy big band sound that stands out from typical anime themes. The song begins with a dramatic countdown before launching into powerful brass and percussion. The visuals show silhouettes of the characters in stylish motion. Its energy captures the adventurous and cool spirit of the show. The opening quickly became a favorite in anime culture.
This opening is so catchy that many fans listen to it outside of the anime. The jazz style gives it a timeless quality, making it appealing even decades later. It perfectly matches the tone of a series filled with bounty hunting and space adventure. The mix of music and visuals creates a sense of excitement before each episode. It is often considered one of the best openings in anime history. Fans never skip it because it is just as enjoyable as the story itself.
We Are – One Piece
We Are was the very first opening for One Piece in 1999. Sung by Hiroshi Kitadani, it became a theme song for the Straw Hat crew’s early adventures. The upbeat tone matches the sense of friendship and exploration in the series. The visuals show the crew on their journey, highlighting their bond. It quickly became one of the most memorable anime openings of the 2000s. Fans of the series still celebrate the song during anniversaries and events.
The opening is catchy because of its inspiring lyrics and cheerful rhythm. It motivates viewers and reflects the spirit of adventure in One Piece. The song has been re-recorded multiple times by different artists, showing its lasting appeal. It is often played at concerts and anime conventions. Many fans associate the song with the excitement of starting the Straw Hats’ journey. Skipping this opening feels like missing part of the adventure itself.
Cha-La Head-Cha-La – Dragon Ball Z
This legendary opening aired in 1989 with the start of Dragon Ball Z. Sung by Hironobu Kageyama, it became one of the most famous anime songs worldwide. The upbeat rock style perfectly matches the energy of the series. The visuals include action scenes of Goku and his friends fighting powerful enemies. The lyrics reflect courage, strength, and adventure. It set the tone for the high-energy battles of the anime.
Fans cannot skip this opening because it brings excitement before every episode. The music instantly reminds viewers of the series’ most memorable fights. It has been covered and remixed many times over the years. Concert performances of the song often get loud cheers from fans. The catchy chorus makes it easy to sing along. Even decades later, it remains a song that anime fans of all ages know.
The World – Death Note
The World by Nightmare was the first opening for Death Note in 2006. The song features a mix of rock and dark energy that fits the story of Light Yagami and L. The visuals are filled with symbolic images of justice, morality, and temptation. Its fast pace and heavy guitar riffs make it stand out among anime openings. The track became popular among fans who appreciated its intense style. The combination of music and visuals reflected the suspense of the series.
The opening is catchy because it builds excitement and tension from the start. The vocals and guitar work give it a memorable edge. Fans often recall how the song captured the dark mood of Death Note. It was praised for matching the psychological drama of the show. Many fans listen to it outside of the anime as part of their playlists. Skipping it would mean missing out on the atmosphere it creates.
Go – Naruto
Go by FLOW served as one of the most memorable openings for Naruto in 2004. The upbeat rock track brought energy that matched the young ninjas’ adventures. The visuals showed Naruto and his friends training and fighting while growing stronger. The song’s chorus is easy to sing along with and stuck in the minds of fans. FLOW’s performance became closely tied to the Naruto franchise. It remains one of the most requested anime openings at live shows.
Fans cannot skip this song because it represents the fun and adventurous side of Naruto. It lifts the energy before each episode begins. The opening is still popular among anime fans around the world. Its catchy rhythm makes it unforgettable even years after its first airing. Many see it as one of the best examples of anime rock themes. It continues to bring nostalgia for fans who grew up with the series.
Again – Fullmetal Alchemist Brotherhood
Again by Yui was the first opening for Fullmetal Alchemist Brotherhood in 2009. The song features a mix of rock and emotional vocals. The opening visuals highlight Edward and Alphonse Elric’s journey. The lyrics reflect themes of hope, struggle, and determination. It became an instant hit among anime fans worldwide. The song topped music charts in Japan during its release.
This opening is catchy because of its emotional energy. Yui’s voice carries both strength and vulnerability, matching the story’s tone. Fans often replay the opening for its powerful combination of music and visuals. It set the stage perfectly for the dramatic story of the Elric brothers. The song continues to be praised as one of the best anime openings. Skipping it means missing the mood that makes the series so impactful.
Sign – Naruto Shippuden
Sign by FLOW was released as the sixth opening for Naruto Shippuden in 2009. The song has an emotional tone that fits the intense story arcs at the time. The visuals highlight battles, friendships, and personal struggles of the characters. FLOW once again delivered a strong performance that resonated with fans. The opening quickly became a fan favorite. Its mix of rock and emotional lyrics gave it depth.
Fans remember Sign as one of the most powerful openings of Naruto Shippuden. It matches the series’ themes of loyalty and hardship. The chorus stays in the minds of listeners long after the song ends. Many fans consider it one of the best anime openings of the 2000s. Its popularity remains strong at anime events and live concerts. Skipping this opening would mean losing part of the experience of the show.
Guren no Yumiya – Attack on Titan
Guren no Yumiya by Linked Horizon debuted as the first opening for Attack on Titan in 2013. The powerful vocals and marching rhythm captured the urgency of humanity fighting for survival. The visuals showed soldiers battling Titans with breathtaking animation. The German-inspired lyrics added a unique and memorable element. The song became an international hit. It is often associated with the intense start of the series.
This opening is catchy because of its dramatic and commanding sound. It instantly immerses the audience in the tension of Attack on Titan. Fans often recall chanting along with the opening at events. It became one of the most streamed anime songs worldwide. Its energy fits perfectly with the action-packed scenes of the series. The opening remains a defining moment in anime music.
Crossing Field – Sword Art Online
Crossing Field by LiSA served as the first opening for Sword Art Online in 2012. The upbeat pop-rock style fit the theme of entering a virtual world. The visuals showed Kirito and Asuna fighting within the game’s world. The song became one of LiSA’s most popular singles. It charted highly in Japan and gained international attention. Fans quickly associated the track with the excitement of the series.
The opening is catchy because of its bright and uplifting melody. LiSA’s strong vocals make it memorable from the first listen. It matches the adventurous spirit of Sword Art Online. The lyrics reflect determination and connection, themes central to the series. Many fans revisit the song long after finishing the anime. Skipping it would take away part of the charm of the show.
Bloody Stream – JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure Battle Tendency
Bloody Stream by Coda was the second opening of JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure in 2012. The jazzy, upbeat style made it stand out from other anime openings. The visuals matched the colorful and flamboyant style of the series. The song became a favorite among JoJo fans. It showed the unique personality of Battle Tendency. The track remains widely loved for its fun energy.
This opening is catchy because of its groovy rhythm and stylish delivery. The chorus stays in the mind of listeners easily. Fans often associate it with Joseph Joestar’s character. The unique animation style added to its appeal. Many fans consider it one of the most creative anime openings. It continues to be replayed for its lively and unforgettable sound.
Colors – Code Geass
Colors by FLOW was the first opening for Code Geass in 2006. The energetic rock track introduced viewers to the world of Lelouch and his rebellion. The visuals showed mechas, battles, and political themes in striking animation. The song became one of FLOW’s most celebrated singles. It was popular on Japanese charts during its release. Fans quickly connected the song to the series’ dramatic story.
This opening is catchy because of its upbeat rhythm and impactful chorus. It energized viewers at the start of each episode. Many fans recall it as one of the best anime openings of the mid-2000s. The song’s mix of rock and catchy vocals made it stand out. It remains a favorite at anime conventions and live concerts. Skipping it feels like skipping the excitement of Code Geass.
Again and Again – Black Clover
The opening Haruka Mirai by Kankaku Piero aired as the first opening of Black Clover in 2017. Its fast-paced rock style quickly caught the attention of fans. The visuals highlighted Asta and Yuno’s journey to become Wizard King. The track set the mood for a story about determination and rivalry. The song gained popularity on streaming platforms. Fans still consider it one of the strongest openings of the series.
This opening is catchy because of its high energy and inspiring lyrics. It reflects the struggles and dreams of the main characters. Many fans replay the song even outside of the anime. The upbeat chorus creates excitement for every episode. Its popularity helped Black Clover build its early fanbase. Skipping it would take away part of what makes the anime so engaging.
This article originally appeared on Avocadu.