Anime is an art form that captivates its audience not only through vibrant animation and compelling stories but also through its powerful use of music. The role of music in anime cartoons is far from secondary; it is an integral part of the storytelling experience, setting the tone, enhancing emotional depth, and leaving a lasting impact on viewers. From iconic opening themes to atmospheric background scores, anime music has become synonymous with the genre, defining its unique appeal.
In this post, we’ll explore the importance of music in anime cartoons and highlight some of the soundtracks that have become unforgettable in the world of anime.
1. Music Sets the Mood: The Emotional Impact of Anime Soundtracks
Music has the ability to amplify emotions, and in anime, it plays a crucial role in creating an emotional connection with the audience. Whether it’s a heart-pounding chase scene or a quiet, introspective moment, the right soundtrack can elevate the emotional stakes. For example, the haunting melody of Attack on Titan’s opening theme perfectly complements the intense, high-stakes battles and the show’s sense of hopelessness and survival.
In contrast, the soft, melancholic tunes in Clannad pull at the heartstrings, amplifying the emotional weight of the drama. The combination of visually stunning animation and carefully chosen music in anime makes the medium stand out as a uniquely emotional experience for fans.
2. Iconic Opening and Ending Themes
One of the most memorable aspects of anime cartoons is the iconic opening (OP) and ending (ED) themes. These songs are not just catchy tunes; they are often carefully selected to reflect the tone and themes of the anime. In some cases, these themes become as beloved as the series themselves.
For instance, Neon Genesis Evangelion’s opening theme, “A Cruel Angel’s Thesis,” is one of the most instantly recognizable anime songs. The song’s soaring melody and energetic rhythm perfectly capture the series’ complex themes of existentialism and psychological turmoil.
Similarly, Cowboy Bebop is renowned for its jazz-infused soundtrack, with the opening theme “Tank!” becoming an iconic piece of anime music. The funky, upbeat jazz style sets the tone for the series’ blend of action, comedy, and noir influences, and it has continued to be celebrated long after the show’s original release.
3. The Power of Background Scores
While opening and ending themes get the most attention, the background music or score plays an equally crucial role in anime. The background score helps to immerse viewers in the world of the anime, enhancing the atmosphere and supporting the narrative’s emotional shifts.
A perfect example is Your Name (2016), directed by Makoto Shinkai. The film’s soundtrack, composed by RADWIMPS, perfectly complements its themes of love, time, and destiny. The music’s subtle, emotional shifts accompany the characters’ journey, creating a powerful emotional resonance.
In Spirited Away, composed by Joe Hisaishi, the music is central to the film’s enchanting and otherworldly atmosphere. The sweeping orchestral compositions heighten the magical realism of Studio Ghibli films, blending seamlessly with the animation and visual storytelling.
4. Music That Defines Anime Genres
Certain genres of anime have soundtracks that define their very essence. The music in shounen anime, for instance, is often fast-paced and energetic, reflecting the action-heavy plots. Naruto and Bleach are prime examples of shounen anime that feature adrenaline-pumping scores that accompany their high-intensity battles.
In contrast, slice-of-life anime such as March Comes in Like a Lion and A Silent Voice rely on softer, more introspective music to mirror the emotional growth of their characters. The soothing melodies in these anime help create a more reflective atmosphere, providing viewers with a calming experience that enhances the story’s emotional depth.
Mecha anime, like Gurren Lagann or Eureka Seven, often incorporates grandiose and orchestral scores, amplifying the feeling of scale and the high-stakes nature of the battles and conflicts.
5. The Influence of Music on Anime Fandom
Anime soundtracks also play a significant role in shaping anime fandom culture. Songs from anime become more than just tracks on a CD—they become anthems for fans. Concerts, cosplay, and fan events often center around live performances of popular anime music. Many anime conventions feature performances of anime music by orchestras or fan groups, further solidifying the bond between fans and the music.
For instance, Yoko Kanno—the composer behind Cowboy Bebop’s soundtrack—has become an icon in anime music, with her work continuing to influence the anime community. Her ability to seamlessly blend genres, from jazz to classical to electronic music, has made her one of the most celebrated composers in the industry.
6. Music as a Signature of Anime Studios
Different anime studios have cultivated a distinctive style in their use of music, with certain composers and soundtracks becoming synonymous with their brand.
Studio Ghibli’s films, for example, are deeply tied to Joe Hisaishi’s iconic scores. The music in Ghibli films is as beloved as the animation itself and adds to the whimsical, yet poignant atmosphere of films like My Neighbor Totoro, Princess Mononoke, and Howl’s Moving Castle.
On the other hand, Makoto Shinkai’s films, such as Your Name and Weathering With You, feature music by RADWIMPS, whose unique fusion of rock and orchestral music has become integral to the emotional core of Shinkai’s stories.
7. Conclusion: Music’s Undeniable Role in Anime Cartoons
The role of music in anime cartoons goes far beyond just being background noise. It serves as an emotional amplifier, an atmospheric enhancer, and a defining characteristic of the genre. From unforgettable opening themes to deeply moving background scores, the music in anime is integral to the storytelling experience. It enhances the emotional connection between the audience and the series, creating an immersive world that resonates long after the credits roll.
As anime continues to grow in popularity around the world, the soundtracks that accompany these shows are becoming an essential part of the culture, with music helping to define the genre for new generations of fans.
Whether you’re a long-time anime lover or just starting out, paying attention to the music in anime is an excellent way to appreciate the full depth of this art form.
