If you’ve scrolled through TikTok recently, you’ve likely been swept up in a brand-new dance craze. At the heart of this trend is “On the Way,” the just-released opening for the highly anticipated second season of anime DANDADAN. Unlike the “fast and furious” frenzy that defined the first season opening, this time, the fan celebration feels infused with a new sense of warmth and connection.
This new phenomenon is both similar to and distinctly different from the scene sparked by last year’s first season opening, “Otonoke.”
Looking back, “Otonoke” by Creepy Nuts was like an auditory energy drink, instantly setting the community ablaze. With its impossibly fast-paced rap and a chaotic, viral beat, it perfectly captured the messy, bizarre, and unpredictable charm of DANDADAN‘s first season. Upon its release, it dominated TikTok trends, spawning a wave of song covers and dance challenges. Challengers attempted to mimic the difficult, highly stylized dance moves from the animation or keep up with R-Shitei’s masterful, high-speed delivery. It was a spectacle for the technically skilled, a showcase of individual charisma.
However, as the plot of DANDADAN has deepened, the story’s core has evolved beyond mere urban legend oddities. The bond between the two main characters Momo and Okarun, which grew from a bickering rivalry to a ride-or-die partnership, and the introduction of more allies, have added a rich, emotional warmth to this fantastical world.
The new Season 2 opening, “On the Way,” expertly captures this evolution.
On first listen, “On the Way” may not have the same aggressive impact as “Otonoke,” but it boasts a significantly higher “replayability.” The melody is smoother and more pleasant, with a rhythm that has an irresistible, mellow groove, making the overall vibe feel like a heartwarming rock song you could loop all afternoon. It no longer just depicts the chaos of battle but instead tells a story of trust and connection between companions—the quiet tenderness that blossoms in the moments between fights. The original singer and songwriter, AiNA THE END, a self-proclaimed avid fan of DANDADAN, stated that she hoped the piece would portray Okarun’s emotional state of running and fighting to protect what is important to him, capturing the slightly bittersweet yet loyal feelings on his journey to become a better version of himself. To everyone’s delight, AiNA THE END @ainatheendofficial personally posted a dance video on TikTok, inviting everyone to join in and cover the dance.
If the challenge of “Otonoke” was a “solo stunt,” the dance for the new opening is more like a “global party.” The artist’s personal involvement acts as an official invitation, shifting the focus from replicating high-difficulty moves to simply enjoying and expressing the music and its emotion. The choreography is designed to be clear and easy to learn, with a memorable core movement that significantly lowers the barrier to entry, allowing every fan who loves the song to participate with ease.
What fans are imitating now is more than just dance moves; they are embodying the determination and tenderness embedded in the song—the resolve to protect one’s companions. This has transformed the DANDADAN dance trend from a technical showcase for a select few into a more inclusive and emotionally resonant collective activity.
In a way, the evolution of DANDADAN‘s two openings mirrors the growth of the series itself. It has moved from the raw, primal, and individualistic declaration of “Otonoke” to the warm, relatable, and emotionally connected melody of “On the Way.” This isn’t just a shift in musical style; it’s a reflection of the most important message DANDADAN wants to convey: no matter how bizarre and strange the world gets, the bond between companions will always be the most powerful force.
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