Both Masashi Kishimoto and Eiichiro Oda rule in their own fandoms. They stand amongst Tite Kubo in the big three of Shonen manga and anime. Their works have inspired many throughout the world and what they created was not just a story but a world where immersing oneself into an endless array of possibilities. These are stories that have helped people through their lowest and made them laugh when they were at their saddest.
While both Naruto and One Piece had a lot to learn from each other, they had both been competing for the top spot at the same time. Both of them had a lot of standing, a fanbase that is still as strong if not stronger, and respect for their creators. However, there is one way in which Naruto will forever surpass One Piece.
Masashi Kishimoto’s Naruto Brings Heart in Music
During an interview with Anime News Network, Yasuharu Takanashi, the composer of Naruto expressed how things turned out for him when making music for such a big series. For a musician, understanding music is to understand the character and situation the music would be used for. It is not just through the mind that the tunes must come out of but also the heart and soul.
I think it’s because the melody is so simple. ‘Melody is King!’ Don’t think too hard, just make a good melody! I always try to make good melodies without thinking too hard, so I think that’s what I’m trying to do, and I also try to express what comes out of my heart honestly.
Naruto’s tunes have always been unique. The soundtrack is nostalgic and it brings forth memories that exude emotions that may often be locked inside oneself. Masashi Kishimoto’s story uses melodies and music not just as a way to fill in the void but to express and deepen the story further.
The composer admitted that the more thought he puts into his work, the more complicated the process becomes. However, if he just lets it all out with his heart, the product becomes something comparable to masterpieces.
The Flow of Music Never Picked Up Currents in One Piece
What makes music so memorable is the memories that come with it. The impact songs and soundtracks from Naruto and Bleach have found themselves far superior to those of One Piece. While Eiichiro Oda’s work may be beyond compare, ruling over the world of Shonen manga despite having an ongoing run of over two decades, that is not to say it doesn’t lack in some departments.
Some music leaves its mark. Whether it be through soundtracks, OSTs, or through lyrics; music has a way of leaving its mark more often than not. One Piece lacked in many ways when it comes to its music. So much so that some characters did not even get their own themes (via CBR). The uniqueness of such an anime’s soundtrack becomes rudimentary.
Oda’s series may do well in many ways, but its music isn’t one of them. Naruto is leaps and bounds ahead of the series when it comes to its soundtrack with impact and memories attached to it.
Naruto is available to watch on Netflix.
