The Rise of Animated Music Videos
Japanese music and animation have become iconic elements of Japanese culture, gaining worldwide recognition. While anime theme songs and ending tracks often dominate the charts, recent years have seen animation emerge as a key medium for official music videos (MVs). This fusion of music and animation creates a unique art form that captivates audiences both visually and aurally.
Cost-Cutting or Creative Breakthrough? The Evolution of Animated Music Videos
Interestingly, animated MVs were rare in the 1990s and early 2000s. A closer look at the period reveals that most music videos featured lavish sets and showcased musicians performing directly on camera, reflecting the ample budgets of the time. In contrast, the increasing use of animation in MVs today might initially seem like a cost-saving measure. While this is partly true, the outcome has been transformative. Animated MVs have gained wider acceptance alongside the evolution of Japanese animation, carving out a space for a new form of artistic expression.
Shaping Artistic Worlds Through Animation
For many of Japan’s most popular musicians, who often choose not to show their faces publicly, animated MVs play a crucial role in shaping and communicating their unique artistic worlds. By leveraging animation, these videos not only complement the music but also expand its impact, offering audiences a richer, more immersive experience.
Japan is home to numerous animation studios, whose talents extend beyond anime series into crafting music videos and commercials. These innovative creations add fresh energy to the music scene. Let’s dive into nine outstanding MVs where music and animation combine to create something extraordinary.
Kenshi Yonezu: “Spirits of the Sea”
This track, written for the animated film Children of the Sea (based on Daisuke Igarashi’s manga), is one of Kenshi Yonezu’s most celebrated works. The music video features scenes from the film, seamlessly edited to enhance the song’s emotional depth. The visuals and music share a profound connection, as the track was crafted specifically for the movie.
For me, watching this MV was transformative—it prompted me to look up local theaters screening the film and see it that very night. The movie’s stunning animation and thematic richness made it clear that this was a cinematic experience worth having. The synergy between Yonezu’s music and the film’s artistry exemplifies how AMVs can amplify storytelling.
Hachi: “Donut Hole 2024”
Originally released in 2013 as a Vocaloid track with a hand-drawn MV by Hachi (Kenshi Yonezu’s previous alias), “Donut Hole” returned in 2024 as a fully animated MV. This new version takes the song’s original energy and transforms it into a visual narrative reminiscent of a shonen manga.
The updated animation expands on the conceptual world of Yonezu’s 2024 album LOST CORNER, drawing inspiration from the mechanical and neutral tone of junk collector truck announcements in Japan, particularly the familiar phrase, “Even if it’s broken, we’ll take it.” Released approximately a month after the album, the music video further immerses viewers in its themes, resonating with the nostalgia of long-time fans while intriguing new listeners.
Kenshi Yonezu: “Paprika”
Originally created as the official support song for the Tokyo Olympic and Paralympic Games, Paprika was first performed by the children’s group Foorin. Later, Kenshi Yonezu, the songwriter, released his own self-cover of the track, which was featured in his highly successful 2020 album STRAY SHEEP.
The music video (MV) vividly portrays the vibrant and lively atmosphere of summer in Japan. However, it also carries a subtle sense of melancholy that becomes more apparent as the video progresses. This duality reflects Japan’s cultural nuances, particularly the tradition of visiting family graves during the summer—a practice deeply ingrained in Japanese customs. The MV seems to draw upon this cultural backdrop, imbuing its visuals with layers of emotional depth.
Musically, Paprika employs the “Yona nuki scale” a traditional Japanese pentatonic scale. Commonly used in folk songs and children’s music, as well as in modern J-pop, this scale evokes a sense of nostalgia for Japanese listeners. The result is a seamless blend of traditional Japanese musical elements with contemporary sensibilities, making Paprika a song that resonates across generations.
The combination of vibrant visuals, cultural themes, and its unique musical structure showcases Kenshi Yonezu’s ability to connect tradition with innovation, creating an MV that feels both timeless and modern.
ꉈꀧ꒒꒒ꁄꍈꍈꀧ꒦ꉈ ꉣꅔꎡꅔꁕꁄ: “Fly with Me”
The stylized text ꉈꀧ꒒꒒ꁄꍈꍈꀧ꒦ꉈ ꉣꅔꎡꅔꁕꁄ is read as millennium parade.
The music video for Fly with Me is a fully CGI-animated masterpiece set in a futuristic, cyberpunk-inspired vision of Asia. The MV explores themes of societal class disparity and personal freedom, delivering a visually and narratively striking experience.
The protagonist lives in a crystalline, encapsulated world representing the common people. In contrast, the upper class is depicted as grotesque, monstrous entities that control and manipulate the lower world. Initially, the protagonist fights as if under a form of mind control, but gradually becomes aware of their manipulation. Their ultimate act of rebellion symbolizes liberation and challenges the entrenched values of their society.
This animation serves as a critique of modern societal issues while celebrating the struggle for individual freedom. It reflects a deeply layered narrative that resonates with contemporary audiences, combining cutting-edge visuals with a powerful message.
Reportedly, the production cost reached tens of millions of yen, and the video’s sheer quality and scale justify this investment. The high-budget nature of the MV is apparent in its intricate design, compelling storytelling, and immersive execution, distinguishing it as a standout work among similar projects.
Vaundy: “Fukakouryoku”(不可幸力)
The original term Fukakouryoku(不可抗力) refers to “force majeure” or “unavoidable circumstances” in Japanese. In the song’s title, the kanji for “resistance” (抗) is replaced with “happiness” (幸), creating a new phrase that can be interpreted as “the power of inevitable happiness.”
At first glance, the animated music video (MV) for Fukakouryoku appears simple, seemingly devoid of narrative. However, it leaves an enigmatic impression that lingers in the viewer’s mind. A recurring motif of crows dominates the visuals, juxtaposed with man-made objects like mailboxes, traffic cones, guardrails, and smartphones—ubiquitous elements of urban life. Yet, there is a striking absence of human figures. This portrayal of a “human-less” world creates a palpable sense of unease, distinguishing the MV and inviting viewers to reflect on its deeper implications.
In contrast, the song’s lyrics celebrate the warmth and connection of people living in harmony. This juxtaposition between the MV’s visual solitude and the lyrics’ emphasis on togetherness feels deliberate, perhaps crafted to evoke a sense of dissonance. The loneliness and alienation depicted in the MV serve to underscore the importance of human connection highlighted in the lyrics. This stark contrast compels viewers to contemplate the “gap between ideals and reality” and the inherent value of interpersonal bonds.
The interplay of hope expressed through the lyrics and isolation conveyed through the visuals creates a layered narrative that transcends a mere visualization of the song. Instead, it becomes a profound commentary, inviting deep introspection. This tension between the two elements is likely what resonates so strongly with audiences, leaving a lasting impact that lingers well beyond the video’s runtime.
ZUTOMAYO: “STUDY ME”
Zutto Mayonaka de Ii no ni. (ZUTOMAYO) has carved out a unique niche in Japan’s music scene as a faceless artist, maintaining a mysterious image. Their live performances are meticulously designed to obscure the vocalist’s face using clever lighting and visual effects, adding to their enigmatic allure.
The band’s music videos are exclusively animated, becoming as iconic as their music. These animations blend contemporary fashion with nostalgic elements from 1980s and 1990s Japanese culture, creating a distinctive aesthetic. The resulting visuals evoke a sense of familiarity while simultaneously offering a refreshing take on animation.
In STUDY ME, ZUTOMAYO’s signature style is on full display. The MV weaves together vibrant, surreal imagery and subtle cultural references, building an imaginative world that feels both modern and timeless. This artistic fusion of sound and visuals not only enhances the music but also solidifies ZUTOMAYO’s reputation as a trailblazer in blending auditory and visual storytelling.
The unique charm of STUDY ME lies in its ability to transcend traditional boundaries, inviting viewers to immerse themselves in ZUTOMAYO’s intricately crafted universe.
Hoshimachi Suisei: “BIBBIDIBA”
Hoshimachi Suisei, a prominent VTuber (Virtual YouTuber) and artist, continues to captivate audiences with her innovative music videos. Her MV for BIBBIDIBA skillfully blends animation with real-world elements, creating a seamless and engaging visual experience. This approach, while popular in contemporary animation, is executed here with exceptional fluidity and precision, enhancing the overall impact of the video.
What truly stands out is the one-shot technique used to achieve this fusion. The seamless interplay between animation and reality not only adds a layer of visual excitement but also showcases the technical prowess behind the production. The MV’s narrative is heavily inspired by the classic Cinderella story, with the song title itself nodding to this timeless theme. However, the video presents a modern twist, reinterpreting the tale with fresh, creative visuals that feel both nostalgic and innovative.
By incorporating a classic motif with a contemporary flair, BIBBIDIBA offers a compelling and unique viewing experience. Hoshimachi Suisei’s ability to merge traditional storytelling with cutting-edge animation techniques solidifies her place as a standout artist in the VTuber and music world alike.
BUMP OF CHICKEN: “Acacia”
The music video for Acacia is a remarkable collaboration between BUMP OF CHICKEN and Pokémon, celebrating the timeless legacy of the Pokémon series. The video takes viewers on a nostalgic journey through the rich history of Pokémon, seamlessly blending old and new elements. The result is a heartwarming tribute that resonates deeply with fans of all generations.
The song itself is vibrant and fast-paced, perfectly complementing the dynamic visuals. The MV encapsulates the spirit of Pokémon—its sense of adventure, joy, and camaraderie—while amplifying the energy of the music. This synergy between the song and animation creates a multi-sensory experience that leaves a lasting impression.
This collaboration is a testament to how music and visuals can elevate each other, creating an emotionally powerful piece that celebrates both the legacy of the Pokémon series and BUMP OF CHICKEN’s artistry. It’s a must-watch for fans of the band, the series, or anyone who appreciates the beauty of well-executed audiovisual storytelling.
Quruli: “Amber Colored City, The Morning of The Shanghai Crab”
This song was created in 2016 to commemorate the 20th anniversary of Quruli’s debut. The band described it as a deliberate departure from their previous works, incorporating elements of hip-hop and rap to showcase a fresh side of their artistry. This innovative approach, combined with a sound that resonates with contemporary tastes, has made it one of the most-streamed tracks in Quruli’s catalog.
The music video (MV) features animation by Wisut Ponnimit, a manga artist from Thailand. His distinctive style, marked by a warmth and simplicity that contrasts with traditional Japanese animation, adds a unique charm to the video. Wisut’s work complements the song’s personality, enhancing its appeal and creating a memorable visual experience.
The combination of Quruli’s evolving musical style and Wisut’s artistic touch makes Kohaku-iro no Machi, Shanghai-gani no Asa a standout piece, both musically and visually. It’s a testament to the band’s ability to innovate while celebrating their journey in the music industry.
The Future Potential of Animated Music Videos
Animated music videos (AMVs) are carving out a new frontier by blending music and visuals in ways that elevate both forms of expression. While traditional animation often emphasizes storytelling and character development, AMVs focus on aligning visuals with the rhythm and melody of the music. This synergy between emotions and visuals creates a dynamic interplay that offers viewers a deeper sense of connection and a fresh way to experience music.
With advancements in CGI and VR technology, AMVs are becoming increasingly diverse, paving the way for interactive and immersive experiences. The integration of these cutting-edge tools allows for unprecedented creative possibilities, transforming how audiences engage with both music and animation.
International collaborations are another key to unlocking the potential of AMVs. By blending diverse cultural influences and artistic styles, AMVs are generating innovative works that can captivate a global audience. For instance, the fusion of Japanese animation techniques with the global music scene opens the door to new cross-cultural genres, transcending borders and expanding creative horizons.
Moreover, the rise of AI is revolutionizing the production process for AMVs. This technology could democratize the creation of animated music videos, enabling even lesser-known artists to produce bold and imaginative works. The prospect of discovering unexpected gems from independent creators adds an exciting dimension to the future of AMVs.
As technology and artistic collaboration evolve, the possibilities for AMVs are virtually limitless, promising a future where music and animation continue to inspire and innovate in tandem.
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