Anime samples collide with hard Memphis phonk beats. 131–149 BPM.
Anime Phonk is a subgenre of phonk that samples anime audio and soundtracks, combining them with Memphis rap-style beats, 808 bass, and cowbells. It emerged in the early 2010s on YouTube and SoundCloud, gaining popularity for its nostalgic, energetic vibe.
The defining artists of Anime Phonk — the names that shaped the sound. Tap to hear on Spotify.
The classic anthems and current essentials that define Anime Phonk.
Anime Phonk is characterized by fast, hard-hitting beats with prominent 808 bass and crisp cowbells. The rhythm is driving and syncopated, often at BPMs between 131 and 149. Samples from anime are chopped and pitched, creating melodic hooks or vocal chops that ride over the beat. The overall sound is lo-fi yet aggressive, with a raw, energetic feel that blends nostalgia with modern trap influences.
Anime Phonk originated in the USA around 2012, emerging from the underground phonk scene on platforms like YouTube and SoundCloud. Producers began blending chopped anime dialogue and soundtrack samples with the gritty, lo-fi beats of Memphis rap, creating a unique fusion.
Over time, the genre evolved as producers experimented with faster BPMs (131-149) and heavier 808 bass, incorporating cowbells and distorted vocals. It gained traction through online communities and playlists, becoming a staple for workout and gaming content.
Culturally, Anime Phonk reflects the intersection of internet nostalgia and hip-hop, appealing to fans of both anime and phonk. It often carries a dark, energetic, and sometimes humorous tone, with samples from iconic series like Dragon Ball Z, Naruto, and Cowboy Bebop.
How Anime Phonk is built — drum pattern, swing, and the sounds you need.
Start with a classic phonk drum pattern: a kick on the downbeat, snare on the 2 and 4, and hi-hats with triplets or 16th notes. Add a cowbell on the offbeats for that signature bounce. Use a slow, swung feel (around 65-75% swing) to give it a laid-back yet aggressive groove. BPM should be between 131 and 149, typically around 140.
Sample a memorable anime line or soundtrack snippet, pitch it down or up, and chop it to fit the beat. Layer with a distorted 808 bassline that follows the root notes. Add effects like reverb, delay, and saturation to achieve a lo-fi, gritty texture. Common samples include shouts from Dragon Ball Z, Naruto, or Attack on Titan.
Press play here, or open the playlist in Spotify. Best for Gaming, Workout, Studying.
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