Hololive VTuber Tokoyami Towa to Perform Opening Theme for "The Skillful Poor Man Expelled from the Hero's Party" TV Anime

Popular VTuber Tokoyami Towa, affiliated with Hololive, has been announced to perform the opening theme for the TV anime "The Skillful Poor Man Expelled from the Hero's Party," set to begin broadcasting in January 2026. This news has generated a significant buzz, especially among fans.

This surprise announcement was made during Tokoyami Towa's 2nd live concert, where the new song "Silve" (lyrics, composition, arrangement by Shohei Koga / YOURNESS) was also premiered on the spot. On social media, numerous joyful comments poured in, such as "Congratulations on the anime theme song!", "So happy your dream came true!", "The best live performance, I was so moved!", and "The new song is too cool!". A celebratory mood spread, acknowledging the realization of Tokoyami Towa's long-held dream.

Notably, the timing of the anime's main promotional video (PV) release, which coincided with Tokoyami Towa's live concert, and the fact that the song will be released under Hololive Records, have drawn particular attention. Comments like "It's becoming commonplace for them to do this without being signed to major labels" and "VTubers' momentum is incredible" reflect the industry's changing landscape.

In recent years, there has been a growing trend of VTubers performing anime theme songs. Besides Tokoyami Towa, other Hololive members like Hoshimachi Suisei and Mori Calliope have also contributed to anime soundtracks. On social media, comments such as "Hololive members' anime theme songs are spreading rapidly" and "The era of VTubers singing anime theme songs is here" are prevalent. However, there are also mixed opinions, with some expressing sentiments like "I hope anime song singers and voice actors continue to thrive" and "There are some who feel uncomfortable with VTubers singing." This indicates a diverse range of reactions alongside the increasing prominence of VTubers in the anime music industry.

There's also a view that VTubers have a strong affinity with anime adapted from light novels and web novels, suggesting that opportunities for VTubers to play an active role in the anime music scene will continue to increase.

The context

Hololive Production is a major Japanese VTuber agency that manages a roster of popular virtual YouTubers. VTubers are online entertainers who use digital avatars and motion capture technology to interact with audiences, primarily through live streams and videos. This announcement highlights a significant trend where VTubers are increasingly breaking into mainstream entertainment industries beyond their traditional streaming platforms.

The fact that Tokoyami Towa's song is being released under Hololive Records, rather than a major traditional record label, underscores the growing independence and influence of VTuber agencies in the music industry. The diverse reactions from the public—ranging from enthusiastic support to some skepticism—reflect the ongoing evolution and integration of virtual talent within Japan's dynamic anime and music landscape.