One Piece, one of the longest and most loved anime, is a treasure trove of good music that accompanies arc changes and marks pivotal points in the stories. The theme songs, changing occasionally to match the story and vibe, play a significant role in the series. They not only match the featuring visuals and the current plotline but also resonate with the emotions of the characters.
Some of the best theme songs have managed to perfect the art of being good theme songs, setting them apart from the others. Here is a list of the best theme songs of the One Piece series, each one a testament to the significance of these songs in the series.
Opening Theme Songs
5We Go! by Hiroshi Kitadani
The first opening after the time skip, while resembling the iconic We Are! in a few ways, is an exciting and lovable opening in its own right. This opening maintains the same level of excitement as the first one which is saying a lot, as everyone is emotionally attached to the first One Piece opening.
The narrator initially delves into the Great Age of Pirates, then seamlessly shifts the spotlight to Luffy on the Going Merry and the rest of the Straw Hats in their new attire.
4We Fight Together by Namie Amuro
Adored by the One Piece community, We Fight Together is more than just an experience-it’s a shared emotional journey that unites fans. In the opening, Luffy can be seen hanging out with his brothers when they were still young.
The opening also showcases the Straw Hats at various locations, a result of Bartholomew Kuma’s actions. The opening scene, where Luffy fondly recalls the recruitment of each crew member, is a poignant reflection of his character growth and the journey we’ve all been a part of.
3Brand New World by D-51
The Straw Hats’ playful race and the subsequent Merry-Go-Round ride set the stage for the opening. Several solo shots of other pirate crews follow this scene.
Along with an incredibly energetic song, the opening also builds up the anticipation for an epic battle between the CP9 and the Straw Hat Pirates that will be happening in due time. This anticipation is sure to keep you on the edge of your seat.
However, the highlight of the opening is Luffy’s Gear Second, which he uses against Blueno.
2We are by Hiroshi Kitadani
The first opening of the series is a thrilling ride that sets the pace and encapsulates the heart-pounding spirit of One Piece. In the opening, the narrator talks about the last words of the late Pirate King, Gol D. Roger.
The sequence then changes to Luffy’s high-energy run and jump, a sequence that perfectly captures the adrenaline-pumping thrill the series brings.
The opening also introduces the five most important members of the Straw Hat Pirates: Luffy, Zoro, Nami, Usopp, and Sanji. This sense of adventure is what makes the series so thrilling and captivating, and this opening is a perfect reflection of that.
1Hope by Namie Amuro
The ‘hope’ opening, a standout in One Piece, was unveiled in episode 807 of the Whole Cake Island arc. It captures the Straw Hats in a gripping battle against the Big Mom Pirates, with a particularly intense moment of Luffy reaching out to Sanji, who was compelled to go to Whole Cake Island.
The song’s theme aligns with Luffy’s goal of ensuring that Sanji returns to the crew. The best moment of the opening is when all the Straw Hats greet Sanji together as he comes out on the deck of the Thousand Sunny.
Ending Theme Songs
5Souchinosuke by Suitei-Shoujo
The ending is a visual masterpiece, dropping a few hints about Robin who, at that point, was still being depicted as a villain. The long shot at the very end, displaying the faces of all the major villains up to that point including Arlong and Smoker, adds to the intrigue.
But what truly captivates the fans is the aesthetic of the ending. It’s a true visual treat, with an animation style that resembles that of Bleach, set in dark and mysterious surroundings.
4Mirai Koukai by Tackey & Tsubasa
The Long Ring Long Island arc, a comedic portion of the story, features a unique event called the ‘Davy Back Fight ‘. This is a competition where the crew must engage in various challenges against the Foxy Pirates, with the stakes being the crew members themselves.
The arc’s ending, in line with its tone, is equally humorous. The ending, as hilarious as it is, also features a breathtaking shot of the gang sailing into the sunset. It’s a moment that truly captures the beauty of the One Piece world, leaving the audience in awe.
3Memories by Maki Otsuki
Compared to all the other endings, Memories stands out with its notably more basic visual style. It simply shows each of the Straw Hats appearing in the frame while gazing out a glistening ocean. This simplicity, however, is not a drawback but a unique charm, especially considering it was the very first ending that played up to episode 30.
Memories holds a special place in the hearts of many fans, evoking a strong sense of connection and fond memories. It’s a real journey into the unknown, and the lyrics, which speak of longing for adventure and friendship, perfectly encapsulate the essence of this beloved series.
2Glory by Takako Uehara
There are so many things to love about this ending, but what takes this ending to another level is how much it focuses on the spirit of the crew, especially near the end when each of them passes by Vivi, raising their hands as if to suggest that she doesn’t need to thank them for their help.
The crew’s selflessness and their readiness to support those in need is not just heartwarming, it’s like a warm embrace. It’s a perfect way to depict the nature of the Straw Hats, a comforting presence without the need for words.
1RUN! RUN! RUN! by Maki Otsuki
RUN! RUN! RUN! is the epitome of adventure and excitement as viewers see each of the Straw Hats run across the screen as kids with their pasts flashing behind them, the visuals then switch to the present crew coming together to enjoy a meal until they approach a mysterious island hidden within a dark fog.
This depiction of them as children not only drops hints at their backstories, which would be elaborated on later in the story, but also symbolizes their innocence and the journey they’ve been on.
The second half shows that they’ve all managed to find happiness in one another despite the chaos usually occurring around them, emphasizing the sense of progression and growth they’ve experienced.
About One Piece
One Piece is a Japanese manga series written and illustrated by Eiichiro Oda. It has been serialized in Shueisha’s Weekly Shōnen Jump magazine since July 22, 1997.
The man who had acquired everything in this world, the Pirate King, is Gol D. Roger. The final words he said at the execution tower were “My treasures? If you want it, I’ll let you have it. Look for it; I left all of it at that place.” These words sent many to the seas, chasing their dreams, headed toward the Grand Line, in search of One Piece. Thus began a new age!
Seeking to be the greatest pirate in the world, young Monkey D. Luffy also heads toward the Grand Line in search of One Piece. His diverse crew is joining him along the way, consisting of a swordsman, marksman, navigator, cook, doctor, archaeologist, and cyborg-shipwright, this will be one memorable adventure.
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