J-pop icon LiSA talks crafting perfect anime theme songs and one that’s stuck with her

This week, a giant screen in the lobby of Sony’s headquarters glowed with the image of J-pop rock icon LiSA to celebrate her first-ever tour stop in New York City. The mega-star beamed even brighter when we met in person days after the show. 

Over the past decade, LiSA has carved out a powerful legacy in Japan with her high-energy performances and unmistakable vocals. Internationally, she shot to fame producing over 15 anime theme songs, most notably the breakout hit “Gurenge” from Demon Slayer. 

Although “the fans may know me as just singing those songs,” LiSA told Polygon via an interpreter, she is a self-professed anime fan who not only gets to “see all the actual hard work of all staff involved,” but she’s also “proud to be part of that [process].” Although she could point to several songs that elevated her to superstardom, LiSA instead reflected on the lasting impact of her anime intro debut and the collaborative process behind crafting the perfect theme song.

When discussing which anime opening holds the most meaning to her, LiSA pointed to “crossing field” from Sword Art Online. 

“That was the first one that I got to be involved in an anime,” she said, recalling not only the milestone of the project but the emotional resonance it brought her. “It always has a special part in me. Fans in New York were able to sing with me, they know that song so well. That was very touching.”

It’s easy to see how anime has helped LiSA amass listeners across the world, but she also believes that her deep connection to the medium has only enriched her music. “I was blessed to [meet] so many creators backstage,” she shared. “The fans may know me as just singing those songs, but I got to see the actual hard work and passion that goes into creating anime,” and be part of that process.

LiSA said her involvement in creating anime openings goes beyond the vocal booth. Whenever she joins a new anime project, the musician collaborates directly with directors and creators to understand the emotional tone and narrative. “I always ask what kind of scenes they want to depict through this music,” she explained. Whether it’s a high-octane battle or a lighthearted rom-com, she works with the creative team to match the vibe and energy of the show. “They put the images together, and then I get to brainstorm with them.”

That immersive, hands-on process is what makes her openings so resonant. For LiSA, every anime song isn’t just a job — it’s the lifeline that connects her with her audience across the globe.