Every King Gnu anime song

Known for their unique and innovative sound, King Gnu is one of the biggest acts in the Japanese music scene today. Overseas, they have become known for bringing their unique sound to the anime music scene—most notably, in the Jujutsu Kaisen universe. 

This article explores every King Gnu anime song featured in a movie or TV series.

TWILIGHT!!! – Detective Conan: One-eyed Flashback

“TWILIGHT!!!” is the theme song for the movie Detective Conan: One-eyed Flashback. While not yet officially released, fans can preview this King Gnu anime song in the trailer above.

In King Gnu’s official comment, Tsuneta spoke about the creative freedom given by the production team. He shares, “I think we’ve created a song with a new approach not seen in King Gnu’s music so far.” 

From the early stages, the producers were set on asking King Gnu for the theme song—and after hearing the sound recording, they knew it was the right choice. They comment, “It’s a song that touches the heart, which you’ll want to listen to again and again”

SPECIALZ – From Jujutsu Kaisen

King Gnu’s “SPECIALZ” is a massive hit. This King Gnu anime song is as the opening theme for the “Shibuya Incidents” arc in the second season of the Jujutsu Kaisen.  It is featured in their most recent album, The Greatest Unknown.

Released on September 6, 2023, “SPECIALZ” became the fastest song in the group’s repertoire to reach 100 million streams.

In the words of Daiki Tsuneta, the band believes they have crafted a song perfectly suited for the “rampage of the curses.”

Ichizu – From Jujutsu Kaisen 0

“Ichizu” is a King Gnu anime song that holds a special place in the hearts of anime fans, primarily because of its association with the anime opening for the movie Jujutsu Kaisen 0. “Ichizu” presents a high-speed rock tune, driven by a post-punk guitar riff and a ferocious band groove. 

The lyrics evoke a romanticism bordering on madness, reflecting the relationship between Yuta and Rika. Daiki Tsuneta penned the lyrics and compositions, infusing them with a sense of gale and rage, along with a catchy chorus that carries the main melody.

Tsuneta commented on the pressure to create a song for the beloved anime movie and believes the final result was able to depict the Jujutsu Kaisen world.

Sakayume – From Jujutsu Kaisen 0

“Sakayume” was announced following “Ichizu” as the ending song for the Jujutsu Kaisen 0 film. Contrasting the fast-paced opening, this closing song beautifully encapsulates the love and tragedy between Yuta and Rika.

“Sakayume” features a jazzy hip-hop groove layered over Tsuneta’s magnificent string arrangement, creating a sound that’s reminiscent yet different from their popular hit “Hakujitsu.”

This King Gnu song conveys a melancholic, gentle melody that resonates at the film’s conclusion.

BOY – From Ranking of Kings

With its upbeat and infectious melody, “BOY” is nothing short of uplifting. It is the perfect opening theme song for the anime “Ranking of Kings.” The heartwarming lyrics cheer on the lovable protagonist Bojji in his adventures.

The quirky music video begins with a running boy–who fans will immediately recognize as younger Iguchi (a direct reference to the Teenager Forever video).

Iguchi befriends the other young members of the band, who work up the courage to fight against their tough opponent and save his pink monster friend.

“BOY” is notably a unique-sounding King Gnu anime song, significantly brighter and more energetic than some of the above-mentioned pieces. Members have commented that the song has become self-sustaining within their discography.

Prayer X – From Banana Fish

“Prayer X” is the ending theme for the first season of Banana Fish. This King Gnu anime song was released on September 19, 2018.

As a child, Tsuneta would immerse himself in BANANA FISH, reading the volumes lined up on his brother’s bookshelf. In his official comment, he expresses gratitude for crossing paths with this “immortal work” once again.

Tsuneta reflects that, just like the characters in the story, we too suffer and struggle as we move through life, praying somewhere in our hearts. While we don’t know if it is despair or salvation that awaits us, he states, “For now, all we can do is pray.”

He adds, “I believe Prayer X is a song about the conflicts and prayers that everyone carries within them.”

King Gnu Anime Songs Playlist

Check out every King Gnu anime song in the Spotify playlist below:

Follow the artist

Be sure to support the band (and learn about any upcoming King Gnu anime songs) through the links below.

Official Website: https://kinggnu.jp/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kinggnu.jp/

X/Twitter: https://twitter.com/KingGnu_JP

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/c/kinggnuSMEJ 

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King Gnu anime songs

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