The Most Popular Anime OST, Ranked

Choose the Anime OST you think is the most popular!

Author: Gregor Krambs
Updated on Apr 26, 2024 06:29
Anime OSTs, or original soundtracks, are integral to the emotional depth and atmosphere of any anime series. They enrich the viewing experience by heightening crucial moments and evoking strong feelings among the audience. Deciding which OST stands out is not only a subject of popular debate but also a reflection of the diverse tastes and preferences of the global anime community. By participating in a live ranking, fans contribute to identifying the most beloved tracks and scores in the anime universe. This dynamic ranking adjusts as new votes are cast, offering an up-to-date reflection of what enthusiasts truly admire. Your vote helps ensure that your favorite scores gain the recognition they deserve in the anime community.

What Is the Most Popular Anime OST?

  1. 1
    56
    votes
    This iconic opening theme song is instantly recognizable and has become a staple in anime culture. It has been covered and remixed countless times and remains a fan favorite.
    A Cruel Angel's Thesis is the opening theme song of the critically acclaimed anime series Neon Genesis Evangelion. The track combines catchy vocals with a unique blend of electronic, pop, and rock elements, creating an iconic and energetic sound. The lyrics are in Japanese and reflect the complex themes and characters of the anime.
    • Anime series: Neon Genesis Evangelion
    • Song type: Opening theme
    • Genre: Electronic, pop, rock
    • Language: Japanese
    • Composer: Toshiyuki O'mori
  2. 2
    37
    votes

    "Tank!" - Cowboy Bebop

    The Seatbelts
    This jazzy theme song perfectly captures the mood and style of the space western series, and has been praised for its catchy melody and memorable saxophone solo.
    Tank! is the opening theme song for the anime series Cowboy Bebop. It is a jazz-infused composition that perfectly captures the essence of the show's neo-noir, space western setting. The song is characterized by its upbeat tempo, catchy melodies, and dynamic instrumentation.
    • Album: Cowboy Bebop OST
    • Genre: Jazz
    • Length: 3:29
    • Released: 1998
    • Composed by: Yoko Kanno
  3. 3
    17
    votes
    This hauntingly beautiful opening theme song is known for its emotional lyrics and powerful vocals. The piano and guitar accompaniment add to the melancholic atmosphere of the series.
  4. 4
    13
    votes
    This uplifting and hopeful opening theme perfectly reflects the themes of the series, and has been praised for its catchy melody and lyrics. It has been covered by various artists and remains a fan favorite.
  5. 5
    13
    votes
    This high-energy opening theme has been praised for its catchy melody and upbeat tempo. The lyrics reflect the themes of the series and the animation perfectly matches the rhythm of the song.
  6. 6
    16
    votes
    This epic opening theme has become a fan favorite for its intense and powerful sound. The lyrics reflect the themes of the series and the orchestral accompaniment adds to the dramatic atmosphere.
    Guren no Yumiya is the opening theme song for the critically acclaimed anime series Attack on Titan. It was composed by Hiroyuki Sawano and performed by the band Linked Horizon. The song has gained immense popularity and is widely recognized as one of the most iconic anime OSTs. It perfectly captures the intense and thrilling atmosphere of the show, with powerful vocals, dynamic instrumentals, and captivating lyrics that depict the struggle and determination of the protagonists as they face the Titans.
    • Anime: Attack on Titan
    • Genre: Action, Drama, Fantasy
    • Composer: Hiroyuki Sawano
    • Performer: Linked Horizon
    • Released: July 10, 2013
  7. 7
    4
    votes
    This energetic and upbeat opening theme perfectly captures the humor and action of the series. The lyrics reflect the protagonist's personality and the animation is perfectly synced with the rhythm of the song.
    "The Hero!!" is the opening theme song for the anime series One Punch Man. It is a high-energy rock song that perfectly captures the spirit of the show.
    • Anime Series: One Punch Man
    • Genre: Rock
    • Language: Japanese
    • Release Date: October 21, 2015
    • Duration: 3 minutes, 56 seconds
  8. 8
    5
    votes
    This emotional opening theme has been praised for its beautiful melody and poignant lyrics. The piano accompaniment adds to the melancholic atmosphere of the series and the vocal performance is powerful and moving.
    'My Soul, Your Beats!' is the opening theme song for the anime Angel Beats!. It is a lively and upbeat track that showcases a fusion of rock and pop elements. The song captures the essence of the series and sets the tone for its emotional storyline.
    • Vocals: Lia
    • Lyricist: Jun Maeda
    • Arrangement: Kousaki Satoru
    • Anime Series: Angel Beats!
    • Opening Theme Song: 'My Soul, Your Beats!'
  9. 9
    9
    votes
    This epic opening theme has been praised for its powerful vocals and intense sound. The lyrics reflect the themes of the series and the animation is perfectly synced with the rhythm of the song.
    Brave Shine is a song that serves as the second opening theme for the anime series Fate/stay night: Unlimited Blade Works. It is a powerful and emotional track that complements the intense and dramatic moments in the show. The lyrics revolve around themes of determination, facing one's fears, and finding the strength to keep moving forward.
    • Title: Brave Shine
    • Anime: Fate/stay night: Unlimited Blade Works
    • Opening Theme: Second
    • Genre: J-Pop, Rock
    • Released: May 20, 2015
  10. 10
    7
    votes
    This emotional opening theme has become a fan favorite for its beautiful melody and poignant lyrics. The piano accompaniment perfectly reflects the themes of the series and the vocal performance is powerful and moving.
    Hikaru Nara is the opening theme song for the anime series Your Lie in April. It is a vibrant and uplifting song that perfectly captures the emotions and essence of the show. The lyrics reflect the story's themes of love, friendship, and pursuing one's passion.
    • Genre: Pop, J-pop
    • Release Date: November 19, 2014
    • Duration: 4 minutes, 49 seconds
    • Lyricist: Ayase
    • Composer: Ayase, Kudo

Missing your favorite Anime OST?

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Discussion

Ranking factors for popular Anime OST

  1. Melody and Composition
    A great OST should have memorable melodies that complement the overall theme of the anime. It should be musically interesting and well-composed, with the right balance between different instruments, harmonies, and arrangements.
  2. Emotional Impact
    The OST should evoke emotions in the listener that resonate with the story and characters of the anime. Whether it's sadness, excitement, or wonder, a good OST should draw the listener into the world of the anime and enhance the overall experience.
  3. Originality and Uniqueness
    A popular anime OST should have a distinct sound that sets it apart from other soundtracks. Unique compositional techniques, interesting instrumentations, or innovative use of recurring themes can all contribute to a soundtrack's originality.
  4. Consistency and Cohesion
    A good OST should maintain a consistent tone and style throughout all its tracks. It should feel like a cohesive body of work, rather than just a collection of random songs. This includes a balance between background music, opening and ending songs, and any character themes or leitmotifs.
  5. Versatility
    A popular OST should be versatile in its ability to adapt to different moods and scenes in the anime. It should have a range of musical styles and genres, enabling it to shift seamlessly between moments of tension, action, and relaxation.
  6. Production Quality
    The overall production quality of an anime OST should be high, with crisp, clear audio and a well-mixed sound that doesn't overshadow the dialogue or visual aspects of the anime.
  7. Cultural Significance
    Some OSTs gain popularity not just because of their musical quality but also because they are associated with particularly significant or groundbreaking anime series. An iconic or culturally significant anime is likely to have a more popular OST.
  8. Composer's Reputation
    The reputation of the composer can also influence the popularity of an anime OST. A well-known composer with a strong musical background may create a more popular and widely acclaimed soundtrack.
  9. Longevity and Timelessness
    A truly great anime OST should be able to stand the test of time, remaining popular and memorable even beyond the lifespan of the anime series itself. This indicates a strong, timeless composition that can continue to resonate with new listeners for years to come.

About this ranking

This is a community-based ranking of the most popular Anime OST. We do our best to provide fair voting, but it is not intended to be exhaustive. So if you notice something or soundtrack is missing, feel free to help improve the ranking!

Statistics

  • 2427 views
  • 166 votes
  • 10 ranked items

Voting Rules

A participant may cast an up or down vote for each soundtrack once every 24 hours. The rank of each soundtrack is then calculated from the weighted sum of all up and down votes.

More information on most popular anime ost

Anime OSTs (Original Soundtracks) are an integral part of the anime industry. They serve to enhance the emotional impact of various scenes and to create a memorable listening experience for fans. The most popular anime OSTs often have a cult following, with fans eagerly anticipating the release of new tracks and albums. Some of the most iconic anime soundtracks include those from shows like Naruto, Attack on Titan, and Sword Art Online. With so many incredible anime OSTs out there, it can be difficult to determine which one reigns supreme. Thankfully, StrawPoll provides a platform for fans to vote on their favorites and settle the debate once and for all.

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