With the hype for Fall 2023’s bumper anime season fading, Winter 2024 offered a calmer selection of just over 40 shows. But that doesn’t mean the music wasn’t on point. We’ve compiled a list of the top 10 best anime opening and ending songs that might have flown under the radar, along with some personal favorites that deserve a spot on your playlist.
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Top 10 Best Anime Opening and Ending Songs of 2024
Many anime boast fantastic theme songs that get overshadowed by the juggernauts of the season, or even by the anime itself if it receives negative reviews. This list aims to unearth those hidden gems. It’s also for those who habitually skip intros and outros, offering a chance to discover some musical brilliance without the commitment of watching every single show.
Top 10 Opening Themes (OP)
1. Showdown by FIVE NEW OLD (High Card Season 2): Continuing the high-octane energy of High Card Season 1, FIVE NEW OLD returns to deliver a perfect pump-up song for Monday mornings. Fast-paced and energetic, it sets the tone for the season perfectly.
2. Massakasa Magic by Shallm (Tis Time for “Torture”, Princess): This one takes the top spot on my personal list. Shallm, a newcomer to the anisong scene, absolutely nails the quirky vibe of “Tis Time for ‘Torture,’ Princess.” This catchy song is likely to be her breakthrough, and hopefully, we’ll see more of her in the future.
3. Namara Menkoi Gal by Masayoshi Oishi (Hokkaido Gals Are Super Adorable!): A familiar name returns. Masayoshi Oishi brings his signature funky style back, perfectly capturing the adorable essence of the Hokkaido Gals. This might be his best work in a while, so fans won’t want to miss it.
4. Otowa by Taiyo to Odore, Tsukiyo ni Utae (The Foolish Angel Dances With the Devil): This fast-paced and fun song by Pony Canyon’s idol project strikes a great balance – it’s upbeat without being childish, and energetic without being overwhelming.
5. Easy? Hard? Shikashite Susume! by DIALOGUE+ (Bottom-Tier Character Tomozaki 2nd Season): Continuing the thematic thread from Season 1’s “Jinsei Easy,” this new OP by DIALOGUE+ perfectly encapsulates the video game theme of Bottom-Tier Character Tomozaki.
6. My Dream Girls by NACHERRY (Gushing Over Magical Girls): The cute and catchy “My Dream Girls” might surprise you, considering the… ahem, “cultured” nature of Gushing Over Magical Girls. Performed by the idol duo NACHERRY, formed by Natsumi Murakami and Chiemi Tanaka of Love Live Nijigasaki High School Idol Club, this song is a delightful bait-and-switch.
7. Hajimete wa Zenbu Kimi ga ii by Koe ni Naranaiyo (Cherry Magic): A perfect fit for a slice-of-life or romance anime, “Hajimete wa Zenbu Kimi ga ii” offers a calming melody that beautifully complements the story of Cherry Magic, a BL (Boys’ Love) anime.
8. Sleep Walking Orchestra by BUMP OF CHICKEN (Delicious in Dungeon): The legendary BUMP OF CHICKEN graces us with another song, this time for Delicious in Dungeon. “Sleep Walking Orchestra” has a folksy vibe that creates a perfect soundscape for a fantasy adventure.
9. Lock-On by MAISONdes, Hashimero, MeguriMeguru (Urusei Yatsura 2022 Season 2): It wouldn’t be Urusei Yatsura without MAISONdes on the soundtrack. “Lock-On” is a high-energy adrenaline shot, perfectly complemented by the fast-paced visuals of the opening sequence.
10. FLY by MADKID (Sasaki and Peeps): My personal favorite of Winter 2024, “FLY” by MADKID might not quite reach the heights of their past smash hit “SIN,” but it surpasses their “One-Room Adventure.” Released early in the season, this catchy song has serious earworm potential.
Top 10 Ending Themes (ED)
1. Day Off by GLASGOW (Mr. Villain’s Day Off): An upbeat and cheerful song that portrays the lighthearted nature of Mr. Villain’s Day Off perfectly. It might not be as strong as the OP, but it’s a delightful way to end an episode.
2. My Factor by Kent Itou (Tsukimichi Moonlit Fantasy Season 2): A solid J-pop song, “My Factor” brings a happy and optimistic vibe to Tsukimichi Moonlit Fantasy Season 2. It’s a great pick-me-up after the main story unfolds.
3. Ashita wa Ashita no Kaze ga Fuku by LEEVELLES (Tis Time for “Torture”, Princess): Matching the quirky fun of the anime, “Ashita wa Ashita no Kaze ga Fuku” is a light and cheerful song that perfectly complements your commute home.
4. WaYaWaYaWa~! by Asaka (Hokkaido Gals Are Super Adorable!): This one’s a personal favorite for a reason – Asaka’s vocals are simply stunning. “WaYaWaYaWa~!” is a burst of pure energy that will leave you smiling.
5. Gift by Kaori Ishihara (The Foolish Angel Dances With the Devil): While seemingly generic at first glance, “Gift” stands out precisely for its familiarity. It’s a classic, heartwarming romance ED that feels comforting and nostalgic.
6. Dareka Janai Kara by DIALOGUE+ (Bottom-Tier Character Tomozaki 2nd Season): Another strong showing from DIALOGUE+, “Dareka Janai Kara” offers a nice contrast to the game-themed OP of Tomozaki. It’s a slower, more introspective song that provides a satisfying conclusion to each episode.
7. Konse Daikakumei by Yui Ninomiya (Classroom of The Elite Season 3): A departure from the mysterious vibe of the OP, “Konse Daikakumei” takes listeners on a rollercoaster ride with its dynamic pacing. It’s a unique and interesting ED that keeps you guessing.
8. Togetoge Sadistic by Enormeeta (Gushing Over Magical Girls): This hauntingly beautiful song will be on repeat for many. The contrasting chill vibes and the off-key second chorus hint at the dark secrets lurking beneath the surface of Gushing Over Magical Girls.
9. Party!! by Ryokuoushoku Shakai (Delicious in Dungeon): Following the success of “Hana ni Natte,” Ryokuoushoku Shakai returns with another fun and food-themed ED for Delicious in Dungeon. “Party!!” maintains the same high quality and lightheartedness as its predecessor.
10. Thunder Blossom by MAISONdes feat. 9Lana & SAKURAmoti (Urusei Yatsura 2022 Season 2): This catchy song by MAISONdes, featuring returning vocalist SAKURAmoti, offers a slightly slower take on the high-energy OP. It retains the signature Urusei Yatsura sound while providing a more relaxed listening experience.
The Final Note(s) of the Songs
Winter 2024 might not have had the sheer volume of anime as Fall 2023, but it delivered a treasure trove of hidden gems in its theme songs. From the infectious energy of “FLY” to the haunting beauty of “Togetoge Sadistic,” these songs deserve a place on your playlist, regardless of whether you’ve watched the anime they represent.