DAN DA DAN's 'Hunting Soul' Pulled from Streaming: Copyright Dispute with X JAPAN's Yoshiki Ignites Anime Music Scene

A significant copyright dispute has unexpectedly cast a shadow over the critically acclaimed anime series, DAN DA DAN. This issue specifically concerns its wildly popular insert song, 'Hunting Soul.' Performed by the fictional in-show band HAYASii, the track rapidly gained immense popularity following its electrifying debut in episode 18 of the second season. It swiftly became a fan anthem, accumulating over 10 million views on YouTube.

However, the song's meteoric rise was abruptly halted in mid-August 2025 when it was unceremoniously removed from major Japanese streaming platforms. These included Apple Music, Spotify, and Amazon Music, much to the dismay of its dedicated fanbase.

The Origin of the Dispute

The sudden withdrawal stemmed from serious concerns voiced by none other than Yoshiki, the esteemed leader of the legendary Japanese rock band X JAPAN. Yoshiki publicly highlighted striking resemblances between 'Hunting Soul' and X JAPAN's iconic anthem, 'Kurenai.' This ignited a significant legal entanglement that has now brought legal counsel from both sides to the negotiation table. This escalating intellectual property issue has plunged the song's future availability into deep uncertainty, leaving fans anxious about whether their favorite track will ever return to digital shelves.

In a move to address the growing controversy, the DAN DA DAN production committee promptly issued an official apology. They simultaneously confirmed that active and ongoing discussions are currently underway with representatives connected to the 'Hunting Soul' track.

A Glimmer of Hope for Resolution

Despite the intricate legal complexities, a palpable glimmer of hope remains for a resolution. Yoshiki himself has demonstrated an open willingness for dialogue, even expressing personal engagement with the anime. This suggests a potential path towards an amicable reconciliation rather than a protracted legal battle.

The specific episode featuring 'Hunting Soul' was widely lauded by critics and viewers alike for its high-octane musical performance and its potent contribution to the supernatural intensity that defines the series' unique charm. The track's impact was further bolstered by the creative involvement of renowned artists such as Marty Friedman, adding to its appeal.

As these crucial talks progress behind closed doors, the global anime community watches with bated breath. They fervently hope for a swift and positive resolution that will see 'Hunting Soul' restored to streaming platforms. This incident, while challenging, serves as a stark and timely reminder of the intricate balance artists and producers must meticulously navigate between creative homage and the stringent boundaries of intellectual property in the dynamic and ever-evolving realm of anime music production. It highlights the critical importance of rights management in a globally connected industry.