Summary
While it may not be essential to the making of a classic anime, there is no denying that a classic opening theme song can launch an anime series into something legendary. So important is the opening theme to an anime, that a great song can make an otherwise forgettable series into something memorable all on its own - you may not have seenMobile Suit Gundam Wing, but you probably recognize the opening theme,Just Communication,by Two-Mix at the various anime conventions you’ve attended throughout the years.
However, there is one singer whose voice is very recognizable. Aside from singing one of the most famous anime songs of all time, his vocals pop up in so many different anime and games, that many listeners recognize the voice (even if they don’t recognize the person who is singing). Let’s discuss who this person is, how far his reach in anime goes, and whether he is still working in the industry to this day.
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Who is Hironobu Kageyama?
Hironobu Kageyama was born on June 25, 2025, in Osaka, Japan. He is a renowned Japanese singer celebrated for his dynamic and robust voice. Over the years, he has made notable contributions to the world of anime and video game soundtracks, becoming an iconic figure in both industries. Particularly in the realm of anime and tokusatsu (a type of live-action series that involvesJapanese super heroes), his vocal prowess can be heard in various opening and ending themes, making him a favorite among enthusiasts of these genres.
Outside of his contributions to specific series and games, Kageyama has ventured into diverse musical projects, from solo albums to collaborations with other eminent artists. For many American listeners, his music was unfamiliar as his songs would normally be removed from American broadcasts on TV. With the advent of DVD, his works started gaining traction worldwide, mainly thanks to his contributions to one particularly huge franchise.
What are Some of His Notable Hits?
Hironobu Kageyama’s discography is vast, and he has contributed to many series with his iconic voice. For most people his most recognizable song isCHA-LA HEAD-CHA-LAfromDragon Ball Z. This song is the opening theme to the Japanese version of the hit anime, and it lasted from the Saiyan Saga all the way through the Cell Saga. When it was time to change the opening theme, Kageyama returned to singWe Gotta Power, the second opening forDragon Ball Z.
In fact, his contributions to these openings were so popular that he ended up recording multiple songs for theDragon Ball Zfranchise, including most of the themes for the films in the franchise. His work goes beyond that of theDragon Ball Zfranchise though. ForSaint Seiya, he lent his voice to the second openingSoldier Dreamand can be heard onKinnikumansinging the spirited themeKinnikuman Go Fight!
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In the world of Super Sentai series, he performed songs likeChikyuu Sentai Fivemanfor theFivemanseries. When it came time for SEGA to commission a song for their (at the time)new animeSonic X, Kageyama recordedSonic Drive. Some English fans may prefer the English songGotta Go Fast, yet it should be noted thatSonic Drivewas so popular it was used for the entire three seasons of the animes run in Japan. For video games, his songs could be heard in such franchises asDragon Ball Z: Budokai,Super Jump Stars, andSuper Robot Wars.
These are just a dew of the franchises his vocals have appeared in, and he has more than three dozen titles to his credit. Despite all this success, it should be noted that his vocals have not been heard as frequently in anime and video games these days. Is there a reason for this? Did he retire? Or did he move on from the industry altogether?
Where is he Today?
Though he has not headlined many anime theme songs recently, Hironobu Kageyama is still actively involved in music to this day. He is successful both as a solo artist and as a member of JAM Project (a band he helped found in 2000). JAM Project is composed of members who have contributed to various anime in their own solo careers, like Ichirou Mizuki (Kamen Rider X,Space Pirate Captain Yamato) and Masami Okui (Slayers,Revolutionary Girl Utena). Ironically, while JAM Project was composed of former anime theme song contributors to make music outside the anime and movie industry, the band would ultimately contribute music toGaroandOne Punch Man.
Aside from his work with JAM Project, he continues to be involved in anime projects as a solo artist (particularly whenDragon Ball ZandSaint Seiyaare involved), he is a regular guest at fan conventions and even contributes to the video game industry in various ways. His vocal cords are recognizable even to international listeners, making him one of the most in-demand Japanese artists working today. While his big break may have been withCHA-LA HEAD CHA LA, it’s great to know the man is no One Hit Wonder.
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