The new ending theme for the TV anime CHIBI MARUKO-CHAN, based on the original work by Momoko Sakura, has been announced. The song, titled“Pappa Paradise”, will be performed by Hikaru Utada.
This marks the first ending theme change in approximately six and a half years. The new ending will debut during a one-hour special broadcast airing on March 29.
“Pappa Paradise”, written and composed by Utada, becomes the 13th ending theme in the history of CHIBI MARUKO-CHAN. The collaboration was made possible following an offer from Sakura Productions.
According to Sakura Productions, Momoko Sakura deeply loved Hikaru Utada’s music and frequently listened to her albums at home. These songs became precious memories for Sakura and her family, especially moments shared with her young son.Sakura would often express her admiration in her own playful way, wondering how someone so young could write such profound lyrics and jokingly referring to Utada as someone who “sings light”.
Yoshinori Takeeda, producer in Fuji Television’s animation production department, described “Pappa Paradise” as a bright and uplifting track that carries a positive rhythm. He explained that the song gives listeners the feeling that tomorrow will come quickly and brings hope for the future. He added that Utada personally handled the lyrics and composition, delivering a song that reflects her unique style while perfectly matching the spirit of CHIBI MARUKO-CHAN.
Based on the original manga by Momoko Sakura, CHIBI MARUKO-CHAN is directed by Jun Takagi and produced by Nippon Animation. The series, in its current version, has been airing on Japanese television since 1995.
Crunchyroll streams the anime and describes it as follows:
Meet Maruko, a sweet schoolgirl with a hefty dose of curiosity (and occasional laziness!). She sails through life in a cozy town alongside her loving parents, grandparents, and sister. Maruko has a band of loyal friends, including her closest pal, Tama-chan, but her playful and doting grandpa is at the heart of it all. Life is never dull in this charming series.
Source: Comic Natalie
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