The Anime Soundtrack Phenomenon
YOASOBI (Ayase & ikura) became Japan’s biggest music act of the early 2020s with their novel-based song project. Their 2023 global breakthrough came with “Idol,” the opening theme for anime “Oshi no Ko.” The song topped charts in 30+ countries, becoming the most-streamed Japanese song ever on Spotify (1B+ streams in 2023) and going viral on TikTok globally.
Formed in 2019, YOASOBI’s concept involves adapting novels into songs. “Yoru ni Kakeru” (Racing Into the Night, 2019) from a suicide-themed novel became their breakout hit, dominating Japanese charts for years. Their electronic J-pop sound and anime tie-ins positioned them as the generation’s most successful J-pop export, surpassing even established acts in international reach during “Idol’s” 2023 viral wave.
Sources: Billboard Japan, Spotify, Oricon Charts