Anime openings don't get more iconic than Neon Genesis Evangelion's 'A Cruel Angel's Thesis', a bold, ethereal track that set the tone for a generation-defining (and brain-melting) series and turned millions into serious anime fans.
While you may not know the name of the singer behind the song – Yoko Takahashi – you certainly know her voice, and the legacy she continues to leave on the industry.
For many, Takahashi, who performed at this weekend's Crunchyroll Anime Awards, is regarded as a legend and trailblazer (including The Weeknd, who posted pictures with the singer recently).
Anime voice actor Sally Amaki, who has also portrayed characters in Overwatch and Marvel Rivals, is among her fans – and has nothing but praise for the iconic singer and her (Third) impact.
"Without [Yoko Takahashi and other '90s anime legends], I don't think anime would have even been that popular in Japan itself," Amaki tells GamesRadar+ prior to the Anime Awards in Tokyo.
"Yes, there are a lot of popular artists right now who sing anime openings and endings, but people like Yoko Takahashi really paved the way for them. It's really cool to be able to witness [the performance] in person – witness history in person. I feel like people in Japan know how popular Yoko Takahashi is, but it's really cool to be able to spread it overseas as well. She's the one who really fired up the 'ani-song' community."
While the Anime Awards rewards the biggest and brightest anime names of the past 12 months, SVP global head of brand and community Scott Donaton agrees it's an opportunity to look back and give those who trod new ground their flowers.
"I think that the 10th anniversary, in particular, is a chance to stop and reflect and celebrate all that's new, but all that's come before it as well," Donaton noted.
While 'A Cruel Angel's Thesis' remains on loop on our playlist, there's still more on the way from Neon Genesis Evangelion. A Yoko Taro-penned series is in the works, complete with a suitably cryptic teaser.
Crunchyroll's Anime Awards took place on May 22 in Japan. For more, read the list of the main Anime Awards 2026 winners.
Still haven't experienced Evangelion? You'll need our guide on how to watch Neon Genesis Evangelion in order.
