Iconic Evangelion Singer Yoko Takahashi Unpacks 30 Years of 'The Cruel Angel's Thesis' at Anime NYC

At the highly anticipated Anime NYC 2025, legendary Japanese vocalist Yoko Takahashi, whose voice is synonymous with the groundbreaking anime series Neon Genesis Evangelion, sat down for an exclusive, in-depth interview. Marking three decades in the music industry, Takahashi offered profound reflections on her illustrious career and the indelible mark left by her iconic opening theme, “The Cruel Angel's Thesis.”

She unveiled how her foundational training within a children’s chorus group cultivated the remarkable vocal dexterity that allows her to effortlessly navigate jazz, pop, and rock genres, ensuring her voice's enduring power throughout her extensive career. Takahashi spoke passionately about Evangelion's transformative impact on her life and artistic journey, emphasizing how the series’ intricate characters and compelling narrative continue to captivate and deeply resonate with global audiences.

The anime's phenomenal resurgence, particularly during the recent pandemic, saw it reach a new generation of viewers through widespread streaming platforms like Netflix, significantly broadening its already immense fanbase. This renewed accessibility has cemented both the anime and its unforgettable theme song as perpetual cultural touchstones.

Further testament to its enduring popularity, “The Cruel Angel's Thesis” proudly secured a spot among Japan’s top four karaoke songs in the first half of 2025, according to leading karaoke brand JOYSOUND – a remarkable achievement three decades post-release. Takahashi eloquently articulated the profound emotional bond fans share with the song and the series, underscoring how her powerful music perfectly intertwines with Evangelion’s complex storytelling and unforgettable characters.

This pivotal interview not only celebrates Takahashi's extraordinary career and her signature anthem but also definitively reinforces Neon Genesis Evangelion's unparalleled cultural and musical legacy within the annals of anime history. Both devoted fans and new admirers continue to discover inspiration and connection through this timeless theme and the anime’s deeply moving narrative.