Anime Music Conquers Global Stage
Japanese anime music is experiencing a surge in global popularity, particularly among younger listeners, fueled by streaming platforms, concerts, and social media trends. The genre’s unique soundscapes and strong connection to animation are attracting a massive international audience.
The Rise of Anisongs
Anime music, also known as anisongs, has become a major artistic force, especially among younger generations. A recent study revealed that anime’s popularity is nearly comparable to that of Beyoncé among Generation Z, with 54% of them identifying as anime enthusiasts worldwide.
Fueling this surge, Spotify reported a staggering 395% increase in global listening time for anime music between 2021 and 2024. The platform also hosts 7.2 million user-created playlists linked to anime.
Concerts and Night Events
The fervent enthusiasm for anime music translated into a real-world spectacle in London. Approximately 20,000 fans, illuminated by the glow of light sticks, gathered in the “or 2” hall to witness a performance by Awd, a singer in the “J-Bob” world. Awd performed “Cora Cora,” a song inspired by the anime series “SpyX Family.”
Key Factors Behind the Popularity
Several factors contribute to the expansion of anime music. The COVID-19 pandemic served as a turning point, offering an escape through imaginative themes, emotional intensity, and diverse music. In fact, the global anime market is projected to reach $60.41 billion in 2024, showcasing its immense financial power (Statista 2024).
According to The Hollywood Reporter, anime may be the most popular form of entertainment, which referenced an earlier study showing global demand grew 118% between 2020 and 2022.
Anime music has turned into a global cultural power, and the generation Z is at the forefront of this conversion to Spotfai, and we monitor that the masses have interacted with music beyond the limits of the screen, as these shows allow the listeners a window to see music patterns that were not available to them in other circumstances,
stated Solina Ong, Head of the International Liberation Department at Spotify.
Notable Artists and Songs
Lisa‘s “Goring,” released in 2019, stands as a prime example of anime song success. Featured as the opening theme for “Demon Slayer: Kimetsu No Yaiba,” the song resonated with a wide audience and was performed at the Tokyo Olympics closing ceremony in 2020.
Other prominent names include Joassobi, whose song “Idol” topped the Billboard Global list in 2023, and Krippe Nats, known for their hip-hop track “Bing-Bang-Bang-Porte,” the opening theme of “Mashley: Magic and Fry.”
Anime Concerts and Events
Anime music is increasingly appearing in real-life settings, from global tours by maestros like Joe Hesayishi to performances by contemporary stars like Awdo and Joysi. Events such as those hosted by “Anime & Chill” in the United Kingdom foster diversity and inclusivity among anime enthusiasts.
Enini Pipbara-Aban, of the foundation, notes that platforms like TikTok and YouTube provide a new life for anime songs, spreading clips rapidly and transforming series themes into global hits.
Anime music is not just a background, but rather the pulse of the work itself,
she adds.
Western Artists Embrace Anime
Western musicians are also increasingly engaging with anime culture. From Davat Bank‘s anime film “Intertelala 5555” to references by stars like Lili Ozi Vert, Megan Thee Stallion, and Billy Ilish, anime’s influence is permeating the broader music landscape.
Rapper Shao Dow, who writes songs for anime series, explains, I use the anime as a way to explore ideas related to my life.
He cites Luffy from “One Piece” as an early inspiration, highlighting the character’s unwavering determination as a source of positive energy.
The emotional power and broad appeal of anime music are creating a shared experience across generations, solidifying its place in the global music scene.
