Sony’s Increasing Power Over Anime Is Starting to Raise Some Eyebrows

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A recent article on Automaton discusses anime and raises concerns that Sony’s growing control over the industry might be creating problems.

Ichiro Yamaguchi, the singer and guitarist of Sakanaction, expressed interest in creating more anime soundtracks earlier this year. However, he worried about potential issues stemming from Sony Music’s ownership of the anime production company Aniplex.

Aniplex produces popular anime like *Demon Slayer*. Because it’s part of the Sony Music group, it often uses artists and producers already working with Sony to create music for its anime films and series.

This, according to Yamaguchi, reduces the opportunity for other artists to get involved.

Certainly, we can see the potential issue, as Sony seeks to synergise all of its divisions.

Recently, Yoasobi, a musical group under Sony Music, created the theme song for the anime *Oshi no Ko*. Similarly, Creepy Nuts, another artist with Sony Music, composed the theme song for *Dandadan*.

To be fair, though, both are popular acts and neither of the animes were produced by Aniplex.

Despite everything, the company hired Aimer and LiSA – both Sony Music artists – to create the theme songs for the hugely successful *Demon Slayer: Infinity Castle* movie.

Honestly, it feels like Sony’s just trying to dominate the anime world by buying up everything, and I’m not sure I love that. I get that they want to grow, and I respect that, but I’d rather see them build success organically than just keep acquiring studios. It just feels like a consolidation play, and it’s a little concerning as a fan.

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2025-10-17 09:06