The 15+ Best Anime About Rock & Roll
Vote for the best anime series about rock bands that hit a high note.
The best anime series about rock bands have catchy songs, awesome rockstars, and meaningful stories. Whether the anime is about a struggling, up-and-coming boy band, like Given, or professional singers and musicians on the road, like Nana or Detroit Metal City, there’s enough variety for any fan.
When it comes to juicy bandmate drama or even heavy themes of punk rock subculture in Japan, anime series like Beck and Black Heaven hit a high note. Bocchi the Rock follows a high school girl group who grow from social outcasts to confident performers. Take a look below and vote for the best musical anime series that totally rock.
- 1
Beck
In the world of underground rock music, 14-year-old Yukio "Koyuki" Tanaka's life changes when he saves an odd-looking dog named Beck and befriends its owner, talented guitarist Ryusuke Minami. As Koyuki learns to play the guitar, he joins Ryusuke's band BECK, alongside vocalist Chiba, bassist Taira, and drummer Saku. The musicians face various challenges and conflicts as they struggle to gain fame and success, while Koyuki discovers the true meaning of friendship, love, and music.
- 2Romance, Slice of Life, Musical
Aspiring punk rock vocalist Nana Osaki and bubbly college student Nana Komatsu move to Tokyo to pursue their dreams, coincidentally becoming roommates and forming an unlikely friendship. Navigating through the ups and downs of life, love, and career, the two young women support each other as Nana Osaki's band, Black Stones, competes with her ex-boyfriend's band, Trapnest. With the strength of their friendship behind them, the women confront personal challenges and learn valuable life lessons.
- 3Slice of Life, Comedy, Musical
A lively high school girl named Yui Hirasawa stumbles upon the Light Music Club, joining it on a whim with no prior musical experience, but soon discovers a passion for playing the guitar. Along with fellow club members Mio Akiyama, Ritsu Tainaka, and Tsumugi Kotobuki, they form a band called After School Tea Time. The girls navigate through the challenges of high school life, balancing academics, friendships, and their pursuit of musical excellence as they prepare for the school festival.
- 4Drama, Music, Romance
High school student Ritsuka Uenoyama forms an unlikely bond with Mafuyu Sato after discovering him clutching a broken guitar, leading to Ritsuka teaching Mafuyu how to play and inviting him to join his band. Alongside fellow bandmates Haruki Nakayama and Akihiko Kaji, the quartet navigates the emotional landscape of music, relationships, and personal growth. As Mafuyu comes to terms with a tragic past, the group's friendship and talent help him find his voice and heal through the power of song.
- 5
Detroit Metal City
Soichi Negishi, a gentle and aspiring indie musician, is forced to adopt the persona of Johannes Krauser II, the demonic frontman of the death metal band Detroit Metal City (DMC). As the popularity of DMC grows, Soichi struggles to balance his dual identities while dealing with outrageous band members and an obsessive fanbase. Despite his reluctance, Soichi comes to appreciate the impact of his music on others, but constantly searches for his true self amidst all the chaos.
- 6Comedy, Music, Slice of Life
- 7
Nana Recaps
This special edition of Nana condenses key moments and episodes from the original series, highlighting the experiences and hardships that define the main characters, Nana Osaki and Nana Komatsu. As they navigate the complexities of life, love, and their respective careers in the music industry, their friendship serves as the vital support system that helps them confront their challenges. Drama, romance, and life lessons intermingle in this unique retelling of the beloved story.
- 8
Detroit Metal City: Birth of the Metal Devil
Set prior to the original series, this prequel explores the events leading up to the formation of the death metal band Detroit Metal City. Aspiring indie musician Soichi Negishi adopts the demonic persona of Johannes Krauser II and begins his journey alongside his outrageous bandmates, facing numerous challenges and obstacles. The unexpected rise of Detroit Metal City reveals hidden depths of passion and commitment, setting the stage for the band's thrilling story.
- 9
Fuuka
Yuu Haruna, a quiet and introverted teenager, encounters the energetic and free-spirited Fuuka Akitsuki, leading him to rediscover his passion for music. The duo forms a band with their classmates, aiming to achieve success in the music scene. As their relationships and talent grow, they each struggle with personal issues and the pursuit of their dreams, while learning the importance of resilience, determination, and friendship in the face of adversity.
- 10
Black Heaven
Middle-aged salaryman Oji Tanaka finds his mundane life turned upside down when he's recruited by a group of aliens to save their dying world through the power of rock music. Reuniting with his former bandmates from the legendary rock group Black Heaven, Oji must learn to balance his responsibilities as a husband, father, and office worker with his newfound role as a cosmic savior. As the stakes rise, Oji rediscovers the passion that once defined him and learns valuable lessons about love and loyalty.
- 11
Bakumatsu Rock
In an alternate version of Japan where rock music is banned, charismatic guitarist Ryoma Sakamoto dreams of sharing his sound with the world. Joined by fellow musicians Kogorou Katsura and Shinsaku Takasugi, they form a rebel rock band to confront the oppressive Shogunate, overthrowing the government using the power of their music. As they band together against all odds, music becomes their weapon, igniting the flames of revolution in the hearts of the people.
- 12
Kaikan Phrase
After encountering talented street musician Sakuya Ookochi, lyricist Aine Yukimura becomes inspired to write songs for his band, Lucifer. As their collaboration fuels the band's growing success, Aine and Sakuya navigate the turbulent world of the music industry, facing romantic and professional challenges. Tensions rise within the band as they strive for fame and recognition, forcing the members to confront their personal demons and grow closer together.
- 13
Macross 7
Set in a distant future where humanity lives among the stars, the rock band Fire Bomber, led by charismatic frontman Nekki Basara, helps defend the Macross 7 fleet from an alien invasion through the power of their music. The band members must balance their life as musicians and protectors against the backdrop of interstellar warfare. Personal relationships, emotional struggles, and a deep-rooted passion for music drive Fire Bomber's journey as they bring hope and strength to those around them.
- 14Comedy, Drama, Romance
Shuichi Shindou, an aspiring singer-songwriter, forms a pop-rock duo called Bad Luck with his best friend Hiroshi Nakano. Encountering the cold and enigmatic novelist Eiri Yuki, Shuichi finds himself drawn to his mysterious aura, setting off a complicated relationship. As Bad Luck rises in the Japanese music scene, Shuichi struggles with love, rivalry, and self-discovery while creating memorable tunes that resonate deeply with his audiences.
- 15
Macross 7: The Galaxy is Calling Me
This sequel to the original Macross 7 series follows Fire Bomber's lead singer, Nekki Basara, as he embarks on a solo adventure to the distant planet Zola. There, Basara encounters a new array of characters and challenges, while still bringing peace and hope through his music. Despite facing opposition and danger, Basara continues to believe in the power of song to connect hearts across the vast expanse of space.
- 16
Canary
Joining the high school music club known as Canary, Mika Katagiri and her friends aim to create a unique sound inspired by their love for Japanese folk music. As they experiment with different genres and styles, they form bonds and grow into a tight-knit musical family. Facing internal conflicts and external pressures, Canary's members strive to find their identity and navigate the complexities of young adulthood through the shared language of music.
- 17
Bronze Cathexis Koji Nanjo
Chart-topping pop star Koji Nanjo forms an unlikely relationship with talented boxer Izumi Takane after a chance encounter. As they navigate their newfound bond and respective careers, the pair must confront their personal demons and society's judgments. The power of music and love intertwines throughout their journey, challenging conventional boundaries and opening new avenues for self-discovery and growth.
- 18
Macross Dynamite 7
Set after the events of Macross 7, the rock band Fire Bomber is thrust into a new adventure involving a rare galactic species called space whales. To protect these beautiful creatures from poachers, the band uses their music to foster understanding and unity among the different factions. With a renewed sense of purpose and camaraderie, the members of Fire Bomber continue to make an impact on the universe both as musicians and defenders of peace.
- 19
Ai Shite Night
Budding teenager musician Yakko Mitamura encounters charismatic rock star Go Kato, setting off a whirlwind romance amid the backdrop of Japan's vibrant music scene. As their relationship blossoms, Go's band Bee Hive faces challenges on the path to stardom. Overcoming obstacles and deepening emotional connections, Yakko and Go's love story captures the essence of youth, passion, and the unifying force of music.
- 20
Bakumatsu Rock: Mystery! Onsen Kaijiken ze yo!!
In this special episode, the rock band formed by Ryoma Sakamoto, Kogorou Katsura, and Shinsaku Takasugi is summoned to a mysterious hot spring. Facing unusual puzzles and supernatural occurrences, the musicians must use their intelligence and musical prowess to uncover the truth behind the enigmatic locale. As their bond strengthens in the face of adversity, the trio's dedication to rebellion and rock music is further solidified.
- 21
Fuuka Fuusou
This short spin-off series focuses on Fuuka Akitsuki's everyday life, offering glimpses into her relationships with friends and family. Through various vignettes and slice-of-life moments, Fuuuka Fuusou showcases the protagonist's energy, wit, and enthusiasm for life. As she shares her love of music with those around her, Fuuka's experiences highlight the power of human connection and the importance of pursuing one's dreams.
- 22
Macross 7 Encore
This collection of unaired episodes and specials from the Macross 7 series offers unique perspectives and insights into the lives of the characters while exploring new storylines. From the heartwarming to the thrilling, each episode sheds light on the emotions and struggles of Fire Bomber's journey through the universe. As the members navigate personal challenges and strengthen their bonds, the band's passion for music and friendship continues to shine.
- 23
Be-Boy Kidnapp'n Idol
Up-and-coming actor and singer Makoto Aizawa is kidnapped by his jealous rival Yuuri Kajiwara, creating tension among their industry peers. As they navigate the complex dynamics of their rivalry and relationships, the duo's love for music becomes the thread that connects them. Caught in a neon world of fame, ambition, and desire, Makoto and Yuuri must reconcile their differences and find common ground through their shared artistic passions.