The world of anime is known for its captivating stories, vibrant characters, and stunning visuals, but equally important is the music that brings these elements to life. The greatest anime composers have crafted soundtracks that not only enhance the emotional depth and intensity of these stories but also leave a lasting impact on audiences around the globe.
From epic orchestral scores to innovative blends of genres, these composers have shaped the soundscapes of some of the most beloved anime series and films.
In this article, we’ll explore the careers of the greatest anime composers, celebrating their contributions to the art of anime music and the unforgettable melodies they’ve created.
21 Greatest Anime Composers Who Shaped Film Music
Contents
- 1 21 Greatest Anime Composers Who Shaped Film Music
- 2 #1 Joe Hisaishi
- 3 #2 Yoko Kanno
- 4 #3 Shiro Sagisu
- 5 #4 Yuki Kajiura
- 6 #5 Kenji Kawai
- 7 #6 Hiroyuki Sawano
- 8 #7 Kohei Tanaka
- 9 #8 Michiru Oshima
- 10 #9 Taku Iwasaki
- 11 #10 Masaru Yokoyama
- 12 #11 Naoki Sato
- 13 #12 Yoshihisa Hirano
- 14 #13 Makoto Yoshimori
- 15 #14 Toshio Masuda
- 16 #15 Susumu Hirasawa
- 17 #16 Taku Takahashi
- 18 #17 Kow Otani
- 19 #18 Kensuke Ushio
- 20 #19 Shunsuke Kikuchi
- 21 #20 Kō Ōtani
- 22 #21 Akira Senju
- 23 Frequently Asked Questions
- 23.1 Who is the most famous composer associated with Studio Ghibli films?
- 23.2 Which anime composer is known for blending jazz, rock, and classical music in their work?
- 23.3 What makes Hiroyuki Sawano’s music stand out in modern anime?
- 23.4 Which composer is recognized for their work on the Neon Genesis Evangelion series?
These composers have played a pivotal role in shaping the soundscapes of many beloved anime series and films, contributing to the emotional and cultural impact of these works.
Here’s a list of 21 of the greatest anime composers who have made significant contributions to the world of anime music:
#1 Joe Hisaishi
Joe Hisaishi, born Mamoru Fujisawa in 1950, is one of the most renowned composers in the world of anime, particularly known for his long-standing collaboration with Studio Ghibli and director Hayao Miyazaki. Hisaishi’s work is characterized by its rich, melodic orchestration and emotional depth, which have become synonymous with the magic of Ghibli films. His scores for films like My Neighbor Totoro (1988), Spirited Away (2001), and Princess Mononoke (1997) are widely regarded as masterpieces, contributing significantly to the emotional impact and global appeal of these films.
Hisaishi’s ability to blend classical music with modern elements, along with his knack for creating memorable themes, has earned him international acclaim. His music has become an integral part of the cultural identity of Ghibli films, making him one of the most beloved composers in the history of anime and film music.
#2 Yoko Kanno
Yoko Kanno, born in 1964, is a Japanese composer, arranger, and musician renowned for her diverse and eclectic musical style, which spans a wide range of genres. Kanno is best known for her work on anime series such as Cowboy Bebop (1998), Ghost in the Shell: Stand Alone Complex (2002), and Macross Plus (1994), where her ability to blend jazz, classical, rock, and electronic music has set new standards in anime soundtracks. Her work on Cowboy Bebop, in particular, is iconic, with the series’ jazz-infused soundtrack becoming one of the most celebrated in anime history.
Kanno’s versatility as a composer and her ability to adapt her music to fit the unique atmosphere of each series have made her one of the most respected and influential figures in the anime industry. Her innovative approach to music has left a lasting impact on both anime and the broader world of music.
#3 Shiro Sagisu
Shiro Sagisu, born in 1957, is a prolific Japanese composer and music producer known for his work on some of the most influential anime series and films. Sagisu is perhaps best known for his work on Neon Genesis Evangelion (1995), where his dramatic and often haunting score played a crucial role in the series’ complex narrative and psychological depth. His compositions, such as “Decisive Battle” and “Thanatos,” have become iconic pieces of anime music, contributing to the enduring legacy of Evangelion. Sagisu’s ability to blend classical, rock, and electronic elements has made his music stand out in the anime world.
In addition to Evangelion, Sagisu has composed music for other notable anime series and films, including Bleach and the Rebuild of Evangelion films, further solidifying his reputation as one of the most versatile and influential composers in the industry.
#4 Yuki Kajiura
Yuki Kajiura, born in 1965, is a Japanese composer, songwriter, and music producer known for her work on numerous popular anime series, films, and video games. Kajiura’s music is characterized by its ethereal, orchestral sound, often featuring powerful choirs and intricate instrumental arrangements. She first gained widespread recognition for her work on Noir (2001) and continued to build her reputation with scores for series like Fate/Zero (2011), Puella Magi Madoka Magica (2011), and Sword Art Online (2012). Kajiura’s ability to create music that enhances the emotional and dramatic elements of a story has made her one of the most sought-after composers in anime.
Kajiura is also known for her work with the vocal group Kalafina, which she founded in 2007, and for her collaborations with various artists in the Japanese music industry. Her distinctive style and contributions to anime music have earned her a dedicated fanbase and critical acclaim.
#5 Kenji Kawai
Kenji Kawai, born in 1957, is a Japanese composer known for his work on anime, film, and television, particularly in the genres of science fiction, horror, and fantasy. Kawai is perhaps best known for his work on Ghost in the Shell (1995), where his haunting and atmospheric score became a defining element of the film’s futuristic, cyberpunk aesthetic. His use of traditional Japanese instruments combined with electronic music created a unique soundscape that perfectly complemented the film’s themes of identity and technology. Kawai’s music has been instrumental in establishing the tone and mood of many anime and live-action projects.
In addition to Ghost in the Shell, Kawai has composed music for other notable anime series and films, including Patlabor, Ranma ½, and Death Note. His ability to craft immersive and emotionally resonant music has made him one of the most respected composers in the anime industry.
#6 Hiroyuki Sawano
Hiroyuki Sawano, born in 1980, is a Japanese composer and musician known for his powerful and cinematic music, which has become a hallmark of modern anime. Sawano’s music is characterized by its epic orchestration, dynamic use of electronic elements, and impactful vocal tracks, often featuring collaborations with various artists. He first gained widespread recognition for his work on Attack on Titan (2013), where his intense and dramatic score played a crucial role in the series’ success, with tracks like “Vogel im Käfig” and “Guren no Yumiya” becoming fan favorites. Sawano’s music has become synonymous with high-stakes, action-packed storytelling in anime.
Sawano has continued to build his reputation with scores for series like Kill la Kill (2013), Aldnoah.Zero (2014), and Mobile Suit Gundam Unicorn (2010). His ability to create music that elevates the emotional and narrative impact of a story has made him one of the most influential composers in contemporary anime.
#7 Kohei Tanaka
Kohei Tanaka, born in 1954, is a Japanese composer and arranger known for his work on some of the most beloved anime series and films. Tanaka is perhaps best known for his work on One Piece, where his rousing and adventurous scores have become an integral part of the series’ enduring success. His music, characterized by its grand orchestral arrangements and memorable melodies, perfectly captures the spirit of adventure and camaraderie that defines One Piece. Tanaka’s ability to craft music that enhances the emotional and narrative depth of a story has made him a favorite among anime fans.
Beyond One Piece, Tanaka has also composed music for other notable anime, including Gundam series, Sakura Wars, and Gunbuster. His contributions to anime music have earned him widespread acclaim, and his work continues to inspire and delight audiences around the world.
#8 Michiru Oshima
Michiru Oshima, born in 1961, is a Japanese composer known for her versatile and emotive music across various media, including anime, film, and video games. Oshima’s work in anime is highly regarded, particularly for her scores in series such as Fullmetal Alchemist (2003) and Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood (2009). Her music for these series is known for its sweeping orchestral arrangements and deep emotional resonance, which have helped elevate the storytelling and made her one of the most respected composers in the industry. Oshima’s ability to blend Western classical influences with traditional Japanese elements has given her music a unique and powerful voice.
In addition to her work in anime, Oshima has composed music for numerous live-action films and television dramas, showcasing her versatility as a composer. Her contributions to anime music continue to be celebrated for their emotional depth and sophistication.
#9 Taku Iwasaki
Taku Iwasaki, born in 1968, is a Japanese composer known for his eclectic and experimental approach to anime music. Iwasaki’s work spans a wide range of genres, from orchestral and jazz to electronic and rock, reflecting his versatility and willingness to push the boundaries of anime soundtracks. He is best known for his work on series such as Rurouni Kenshin (1996), Gurren Lagann (2007), and Noragami (2014), where his innovative use of various musical styles has created some of the most memorable and dynamic scores in anime. Iwasaki’s music often features complex arrangements and a mix of traditional and contemporary elements.
Iwasaki’s ability to adapt his style to fit the unique atmosphere of each series has made him one of the most innovative composers in the anime industry. His work continues to influence and inspire both fans and fellow musicians, solidifying his reputation as a leading figure in anime music.
#10 Masaru Yokoyama
Masaru Yokoyama, born in 1982, is a Japanese composer known for his emotionally charged and richly textured music in anime and film. Yokoyama’s work is characterized by its lyrical melodies and orchestral depth, often evoking strong emotional responses from audiences. He is best known for his work on anime series such as Your Lie in April (2014), Plastic Memories (2015), and Fate/Apocrypha (2017), where his music has played a key role in enhancing the emotional impact of the storytelling. Yokoyama’s ability to create music that resonates deeply with the themes of love, loss, and hope has made him a standout composer in the anime world.
In addition to his work in anime, Yokoyama has composed music for various live-action films and television dramas, further showcasing his versatility and talent as a composer. His contributions to anime music continue to be celebrated for their emotional depth and beauty.
#11 Naoki Sato
Naoki Sato, born in 1970, is a Japanese composer known for his work in anime, film, and television, where his music is recognized for its grand, cinematic quality. Sato’s work in anime is particularly notable for his scores in series such as Eureka Seven (2005), Assassination Classroom (2015), and Sword of the Stranger (2007). His music is often characterized by its lush orchestration and epic scale, which have made his scores a key element in the success of the series and films he has worked on. Sato’s ability to create music that is both emotionally powerful and narratively supportive has earned him widespread acclaim.
In addition to his work in anime, Sato has composed music for numerous Japanese films and television dramas, showcasing his versatility and range as a composer. His contributions to anime music continue to be highly regarded, making him one of the leading composers in the industry.
#12 Yoshihisa Hirano
Yoshihisa Hirano, born in 1971, is a Japanese composer known for his complex and sophisticated approach to anime music, often incorporating elements of classical and contemporary music into his scores. Hirano is best known for his work on Death Note (2006), where his dramatic and intense music played a crucial role in building the suspense and psychological depth of the series. His ability to blend orchestral music with modern elements has made his work stand out in the anime industry. Hirano’s compositions are often noted for their intricate arrangements and powerful emotional impact, making him a favorite among fans of anime music.
In addition to Death Note, Hirano has composed music for other notable anime series, including Hunter x Hunter (2011) and Ouran High School Host Club (2006). His contributions to anime music are celebrated for their sophistication and emotional resonance, making him one of the most respected composers in the field.
#13 Makoto Yoshimori
Makoto Yoshimori, born in 1971, is a Japanese composer known for his distinctive and atmospheric music in anime, where he often blends elements of jazz, classical, and electronic music. Yoshimori is best known for his work on series such as Baccano! (2007) and Durarara!! (2010), where his eclectic and vibrant scores have become an integral part of the shows’ unique atmospheres. His music is characterized by its rhythmic complexity, catchy melodies, and ability to create a strong sense of place and mood. Yoshimori’s innovative approach to music has made him a standout composer in the anime industry.
Yoshimori’s work continues to influence the sound of modern anime, and his ability to craft music that is both stylish and emotionally engaging has earned him a dedicated following. His contributions to anime music are widely recognized for their creativity and originality.
#14 Toshio Masuda
Toshio Masuda, born in 1959, is a Japanese composer known for his work on some of the most popular anime series of the 2000s. Masuda’s music is often characterized by its melodic and emotional depth, making it a perfect fit for the dramatic and character-driven stories of the series he has worked on. He is best known for his work on Naruto (2002), where his music became an iconic part of the series, contributing to its global popularity. Tracks like “Sadness and Sorrow” and “The Raising Fighting Spirit” are instantly recognizable and have become synonymous with the emotional and action-packed moments in the series.
In addition to Naruto, Masuda has composed music for other popular anime series such as Mushishi (2005) and Excel Saga (1999). His ability to create music that enhances both the emotional and narrative aspects of a story has made him one of the most respected composers in the anime industry.
#15 Susumu Hirasawa
Susumu Hirasawa, born in 1954, is a Japanese composer and musician known for his innovative and experimental approach to anime music, often incorporating electronic, progressive rock, and traditional Japanese elements. Hirasawa is best known for his work with director Satoshi Kon, particularly on the films Paprika (2006) and Millennium Actress (2001), where his music played a critical role in establishing the surreal and dreamlike atmospheres that define these works. His compositions are marked by their layered textures, complex rhythms, and otherworldly soundscapes, which have made him a favorite among fans of avant-garde and experimental music.
Hirasawa’s influence extends beyond anime, as he has also released numerous solo albums and has been a key figure in Japan’s underground music scene since the 1980s. His work in anime continues to be celebrated for its originality and ability to push the boundaries of traditional film music, making him one of the most distinctive composers in the industry.
#16 Taku Takahashi
Taku Takahashi, born in 1974, is a Japanese DJ, music producer, and composer known for his work in the anime industry as well as his contributions to electronic music. Takahashi is best known as a member of the group m-flo, but he has also made significant contributions to anime music, particularly with his work on Panty & Stocking with Garterbelt (2010). His music for the series is characterized by its energetic and eclectic mix of electronic, hip-hop, and dance music, creating a vibrant and dynamic soundtrack that perfectly complements the show’s irreverent and bold style.
In addition to his work in anime, Takahashi has been a prominent figure in Japan’s electronic music scene, producing and remixing tracks for a wide range of artists. His ability to blend different musical genres and create innovative, high-energy soundtracks has made him a respected and influential figure in both the anime and music industries.
#17 Kow Otani
Kow Otani, born in 1957, is a Japanese composer known for his work in anime, film, and video games, where his music is celebrated for its emotional depth and cinematic quality. Otani is perhaps best known in the anime world for his work on Shakugan no Shana (2005) and Mobile Suit Gundam Wing (1995), where his music added a dramatic and epic dimension to these popular series. His ability to create powerful orchestral scores that enhance the storytelling and emotional impact of a scene has made him a key figure in the anime industry.
Otani’s work in video games is also highly regarded, particularly his score for the critically acclaimed game Shadow of the Colossus (2005), where his music played a crucial role in conveying the game’s haunting and melancholic atmosphere. His contributions to both anime and video games have earned him a lasting legacy as one of the most talented and versatile composers in Japan.
#18 Kensuke Ushio
Kensuke Ushio, also known by his stage name “agraph,” is a Japanese composer, producer, and electronic musician known for his minimalist and atmospheric approach to anime music. Ushio’s work is characterized by its subtle use of electronic textures, intricate rhythms, and emotional resonance, creating soundscapes that are both immersive and deeply affecting. He is best known for his work on anime series such as Ping Pong the Animation (2014), A Silent Voice (2016), and Devilman Crybaby (2018), where his music has played a key role in enhancing the emotional and narrative depth of these critically acclaimed works.
Ushio’s ability to blend electronic and acoustic elements in a way that feels both modern and timeless has made him one of the most innovative composers in the anime industry. His music continues to push the boundaries of what anime soundtracks can achieve, earning him widespread acclaim and a dedicated following.
#19 Shunsuke Kikuchi
Shunsuke Kikuchi, born in 1931, was a legendary Japanese composer who made an indelible mark on the world of anime and tokusatsu (live-action special effects) music. Kikuchi’s work is instantly recognizable, particularly his contributions to the Dragon Ball series, where his iconic and dynamic score became a defining element of the show’s global success. His music for Dragon Ball and Dragon Ball Z is characterized by its energetic brass sections, driving rhythms, and memorable melodies, creating a sense of excitement and intensity that perfectly matched the action-packed nature of the series.
In addition to his work on Dragon Ball, Kikuchi composed music for other beloved anime series such as Doraemon and Kamen Rider, as well as numerous films and television dramas. His ability to create music that resonates with audiences across generations has made him one of the most respected and influential composers in Japanese entertainment history.
#20 Kō Ōtani
Kō Ōtani, born in 1957, is a Japanese composer known for his work in anime, film, and video games, where his music is celebrated for its emotional depth and cinematic quality. Ōtani is perhaps best known in the anime world for his work on Shakugan no Shana (2005) and Mobile Suit Gundam Wing (1995), where his music added a dramatic and epic dimension to these popular series. His ability to create powerful orchestral scores that enhance the storytelling and emotional impact of a scene has made him a key figure in the anime industry.
In addition to his work in anime, Ōtani’s score for the critically acclaimed video game Shadow of the Colossus (2005) is particularly noteworthy. The music in this game is widely regarded as one of the best in video game history, known for its haunting, epic, and emotionally resonant compositions. Ōtani’s contributions to both anime and video game music have solidified his reputation as one of the most talented and versatile composers in Japan.
#21 Akira Senju
Akira Senju, born in 1960, is a Japanese composer and conductor known for his work in a wide range of media, including anime, film, television, and classical music. Senju’s work in anime is highly acclaimed, particularly his score for Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood (2009), where his music played a crucial role in conveying the emotional depth and epic scope of the series. His compositions for the series are known for their rich orchestration, memorable themes, and ability to enhance the dramatic tension of key scenes, making them an integral part of the show’s success.
In addition to his work in anime, Senju has composed music for numerous films, television dramas, and stage productions, showcasing his versatility and talent across different genres. His ability to create music that resonates deeply with audiences, combined with his skill as a conductor and arranger, has made him one of the most respected and accomplished composers in Japan.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is the most famous composer associated with Studio Ghibli films?
Joe Hisaishi is the most famous composer associated with Studio Ghibli, known for creating the iconic scores for films like My Neighbor Totoro, Spirited Away, and Princess Mononoke, which have become synonymous with the studio’s magic.
Which anime composer is known for blending jazz, rock, and classical music in their work?
Yoko Kanno is known for her ability to blend jazz, rock, and classical music, particularly in her work on Cowboy Bebop, where her eclectic soundtrack has become one of the most celebrated in anime history.
What makes Hiroyuki Sawano’s music stand out in modern anime?
Hiroyuki Sawano’s music stands out in modern anime for its epic orchestration, dynamic use of electronic elements, and impactful vocal tracks, as seen in series like Attack on Titan and Kill la Kill.
Which composer is recognized for their work on the Neon Genesis Evangelion series?
Shiro Sagisu is recognized for his work on the Neon Genesis Evangelion series, where his dramatic and haunting score has become a defining aspect of the anime’s psychological and thematic depth.
