by Legendary Japanese musician Keisuke Kuwata is stepping into the anime world in a historic way. It has been officially announced that his new song “Hitotarashi” will serve as the opening theme for the upcoming TV anime Akane-banashi, scheduled to premiere in April 2026.
Alongside this major announcement, the production team has released the second key visual (KV), the second official promotional video (PV), and a special collaboration video featuring Kuwata himself. Fans were also treated to congratulatory messages and newly drawn illustrations celebrating the adaptation.
This marks a significant milestone not only for the anime but also for Kuwata’s decades-long music career.
About Akane-banashi
Akane-banashi is based on the popular manga serialized in Weekly Shonen Jump (Shueisha), written by Hiroki Suenaga and illustrated by Takamasa Moue (Umagami Takamasa). The series has earned critical acclaim for its fresh premise centered on rakugo, Japan’s traditional art of comedic storytelling.
The story follows Akane Osaki, a young girl inspired by her father, Arakawa Shinta, a rakugo performer striving to achieve the prestigious rank of shin’uchi the highest title in the profession.
However, Akane’s life changes dramatically when she witnesses a shocking incident during her father’s promotion examination. Six years later, now a determined high school student, she sets out to master rakugo herself and restore her family’s honor.
Why the Story Stands Out
Unlike typical action-heavy shonen titles, Akane-banashi focuses on:
- Traditional Japanese performing arts
- Personal growth and perseverance
- Emotional family drama
- Competitive storytelling rather than physical battles
- A rare female protagonist in a rakugo narrative
The manga’s unique concept has drawn comparisons to sports anime but instead of athletic contests, performers compete through storytelling skill, voice control, and stage presence.
Keisuke Kuwata’s Historic Contribution
The opening theme song “Hitotarashi” represents a landmark moment in Kuwata’s career. Since his debut in 1978 as the frontman of Southern All Stars, he has produced countless hit songs, but this is the first time he has composed both lyrics and music specifically for an anime theme.
His involvement signals the production’s ambition to appeal not only to anime fans but also to mainstream music audiences.
What Makes This Collaboration Special
- First anime theme written entirely by Kuwata
- A veteran artist joining a modern shonen adaptation
- Music inspired by traditional Japanese culture
- Potential crossover hit beyond anime circles
A preview of “Hitotarashi” can already be heard in the newly released second PV, where its emotional tone complements the series’ dramatic themes.
Special Promotional Video and Key Visual
To celebrate the announcement, the studio unveiled:
- Second Key Visual (KV2): Showcasing Akane confidently performing rakugo on stage
- Second Official PV: Featuring new footage, character introductions, and music preview
- Special Collaboration Video: Animated content with Kuwata providing his own voice-over
- Commemorative Illustration: Drawn by manga artist Takamasa Moue, depicting Kuwata in a kimono holding a guitar
These materials highlight the anime’s blend of tradition and modern storytelling.
Animation Production and Expectations
The anime is being produced by animation studio ZEXCS, known for character-driven works. Their involvement suggests a strong focus on expressive acting, timing, and stage atmosphere all crucial elements for portraying rakugo effectively in animation form.
Fans and industry observers are particularly curious about how the series will visually translate long monologue performances into engaging animated scenes.
Why Akane-banashi Could Be One of 2026’s Most Unique Anime
Several factors position the show as a standout title for the Spring 2026 season:
✔ Rare Subject Matter
Rakugo is seldom explored in mainstream anime, making the series culturally distinctive.
✔ Strong Source Material
The manga has built a loyal readership and strong critical reputation.
✔ High-Profile Music Collaboration
Kuwata’s involvement adds prestige and broader appeal.
✔ Emotional Coming-of-Age Story
Themes of determination, legacy, and self-expression resonate widely.
✔ Potential Educational Value
International audiences may discover traditional Japanese storytelling through the series.
What New Viewers Should Know About Rakugo
For beginners unfamiliar with rakugo, it is a solo performance art where one storyteller portrays multiple characters while seated, using only minimal props typically a folding fan and a cloth.
Success depends on:
- Voice acting skill
- Timing and delivery
- Facial expressions
- Audience engagement
- Narrative creativity
Akane-banashi aims to dramatize this art form in a way that feels as intense and competitive as a sports or battle anime.
Final Thoughts
The announcement of Keisuke Kuwata’s first anime theme song has significantly boosted anticipation for Akane-banashi. With a compelling story, culturally rich subject matter, and a legendary musician on board, the series is shaping up to be one of the most talked-about anime of Spring 2026.
Whether you are a longtime fan of Weekly Shonen Jump, a lover of character-driven dramas, or simply curious about traditional Japanese arts, Akane-banashi is definitely a title to watch.
As April 2026 approaches, more trailers, cast details, and soundtrack previews are expected and excitement continues to build.
