Unveiling the Extraordinary (Singing) Talent Behind Your Beloved Anime!
Discover the powerhouse behind your beloved anime soundtracks! Uncover the enigma of Hironobu Kageyama, the unsung hero whose mesmerizing voice has brought life to countless iconic anthems Explore his exceptional career and find out where this legendary artist stands today
Highlights
A great opening theme song can make an otherwise forgettable anime series into something memorable all on its own.
Hironobu Kageyama, a celebrated Japanese singer, gained fame for his powerful and energetic voice showcased in anime and video game soundtracks worldwide. Despite fewer recent appearances as the main vocalist for anime theme songs, Kageyama remains actively engaged in music. He continues to pursue his solo career and contributes as a member of the band JAM Project.
The presence of a classic opening theme song can elevate an anime series to legendary status, even if it is not considered essential. The impact of an opening theme is so significant that a remarkable song alone can transform an otherwise forgettable series into a memorable one. For instance, the opening theme "Just Communication" by Two-Mix for Mobile Suit Gundam Wing has become widely recognized among attendees of numerous anime conventions over the years.
Moreover, there is a singer whose voice is instantly recognizable among fans. Apart from performing one of the most iconic anime songs of all time, this singer's vocals can be heard in various anime and games, making many listeners familiar with the voice, even if they are not aware of the singer's identity. In this discussion, we will delve into the identity of this remarkable individual, explore the extent of their involvement in the anime industry, and determine whether they continue to actively contribute to it.
Who is Hironobu Kageyama?
Born on February 18, 1961, in Osaka, Japan, Hironobu Kageyama is a highly acclaimed Japanese singer known for his powerful and dynamic voice. He has made significant contributions to the world of anime and video game soundtracks, becoming an iconic figure in both industries. His impressive vocal talents have been featured in numerous opening and ending themes of anime and tokusatsu series, making him a beloved figure among fans of these genres.
In addition to his work on specific series and games, Kageyama has explored multiple musical endeavors, including solo albums and collaborations with other renowned artists. Although his music was initially unfamiliar to many American listeners, it has gained worldwide recognition with the introduction of DVDs, particularly due to his involvement in a massively popular franchise.
What are Some of His Notable Hits?
Hironobu Kageyama possesses an extensive discography and has made notable contributions to various series with his distinctive voice. Undoubtedly, one of his most widely recognized songs is "CHA-LA HEAD-CHA-LA" from Dragon Ball Z, serving as the opening theme for the immensely popular Japanese version of the anime. This captivating tune continued to resonate with fans from the Saiyan Saga all the way through the Cell Saga. When a change in the opening theme was introduced, Kageyama returned to lend his vocals to "We Gotta Power," the second opening for Dragon Ball Z.
In fact, Kageyama's prominence in these opening songs was so immense that he went on to record multiple tracks for the Dragon Ball Z franchise, including most of the themes for the franchise's films. However, his musical contributions extend further than just Dragon Ball Z. In Saint Seiya, he provided his voice for the second opening theme, "Soldier Dream," and his spirited vocals can be heard in Kinnikuman as well, delivering the infectious theme, "Kinnikuman Go Fight!"
In the realm of Super Sentai series, Kageyama showcased his musical talents through songs like "Chikyuu Sentai Fiveman" for the Fiveman series. SEGA sought out his talent for their then-new anime Sonic X, resulting in the recording of "Sonic Drive". While some English fans may prefer the English song "Gotta Go Fast", it is worth mentioning that "Sonic Drive" gained immense popularity and became the theme song for all three seasons of the anime in Japan. In the realm of video games, Kageyama's vocals could be heard across notable franchises such as Dragon Ball Z: Budokai, Super Jump Stars, and Super Robot Wars.
These examples only scratch the surface of Kageyama's vast repertoire, as he has contributed to over three dozen titles. However, despite his impressive success, it is worth noting that his vocal presence has become less prominent in current anime and video games. Does this indicate his retirement or departure from the industry altogether?
Where is he Today?
Despite not headlining many anime theme songs recently, Hironobu Kageyama remains actively engaged in the music industry. He has achieved success as both a solo artist and a founding member of JAM Project, a band consisting of individuals who have made significant contributions to various anime projects throughout their solo careers. Interestingly, despite the band's initial intention to create music outside of the anime and movie industry, JAM Project eventually ended up contributing music to popular anime series such as Garo and One Punch Man.
In addition to his involvement with JAM Project, Kageyama continues to participate in anime projects as a solo artist, particularly when it comes to Dragon Ball Z and Saint Seiya. He is regularly invited as a guest to fan conventions and also contributes to the video game industry in various capacities. His distinct voice is recognizable even to international audiences, making him one of the most sought-after Japanese artists in the industry today. Though he initially gained popularity with the song "CHA-LA HEAD CHA LA," it is reassuring to know that Kageyama's talent extends far beyond a single hit.
