I Don’t Like Mondays. Releases ‘Groooovy’ as BLACK TORCH Anime Ending Theme – Tour & Release Details

I Don’t Like Mondays. Releases ‘Groooovy’ as BLACK TORCH Anime Ending Theme – Tour & Release Details

June 5, 2026 discoverhiddenusacom Entertainment

Japanese rock band I Don’t Like Mondays. Has announced a major collaboration with the highly anticipated anime adaptation of *BLACK TORCH*, marking their first original theme song for the franchise since their 2022 hit “PAINT.” The band will release their new single, “Groooovy,” on July 3, with the track serving as the anime’s ending theme, premiering on July 4 across TOKYO MX and digital platforms. The anime, based on Takaki Tsuyoshi’s manga serialized in *Jump SQ.* and *Shonen Jump+* from 2017–2018, has already garnered global acclaim, particularly in North America, and France.

Why This Matters

The partnership between I Don’t Like Mondays. And *BLACK TORCH* carries significant cultural weight. The band’s previous anime tie-up with “PAINT” in 2022 catapulted them into international stardom, with performances spanning Brazil, Spain, and Argentina. Given *BLACK TORCH*’s established global fanbase—particularly in North America and Europe—this collaboration could further amplify their reach, aligning with the band’s recent expansion into Asia through their “TOXIC ASIA TOUR 2026,” which concluded in May.

Why This Matters
Takaki Tsuyoshi BLACK TORCH manga anime collaboration poster

The band’s new song, “Groooovy,” reflects a deliberate thematic shift from their earlier work. As stated in their official comment, the track was crafted to evoke “the calm everyday life behind the battles” of the series’ protagonists, emphasizing resilience and joy amid adversity. This narrative choice may resonate with audiences drawn to *BLACK TORCH*’s blend of action and emotional depth.

Why This Matters
Anime Ending Theme Like Mondays
Did You Know? I Don’t Like Mondays.’s 2022 anime tie-up with “PAINT” marked their first foray into the genre, a decision that directly led to their global breakthrough—including sold-out performances in Latin America and Europe.
Expert Insight: This collaboration represents a strategic cross-pollination of two major cultural phenomena. *BLACK TORCH*’s anime adaptation benefits from the band’s established international fanbase, while I Don’t Like Mondays. Leverages the anime’s global appeal to deepen their own brand recognition. The timing is particularly notable, as the band has already announced a Japan tour later this year, which could serve as a natural extension of this promotional synergy. For fans, the pairing of the band’s signature rock energy with the anime’s dramatic tone may create a memorable auditory experience.

What’s Next?

Beyond the July 3 release of “Groooovy,” I Don’t Like Mondays. Is set to embark on the “FRIDAY MOOD JAPAN TOUR 2026” beginning October 3 in Sapporo, with stops in Nagoya, Fukuoka, Osaka, Okayama, Takamatsu, Sendai, and a Tokyo finale at Zepp DiverCity on December 5. Ticket sales for the tour are already underway via official lottery, with premium and general admission options available. The anime’s broadcast on July 4 could further drive interest in the band’s live performances, particularly among international audiences.

I Don't Like Mondays. – "Shadow" (Music Video)

Analysts expect the tour to capitalize on the momentum generated by the *BLACK TORCH* tie-in, potentially drawing fans who are new to the band but familiar with the anime. The band’s recent Asian tour and their growing presence in Latin America suggest they are positioning themselves as a global act, with anime collaborations serving as a key bridge to new markets.

Key Details

Anime Details: *BLACK TORCH* premieres July 4 on TOKYO MX and digital platforms, with SiM’s “FREEZE ME UP” as the opening theme and I Don’t Like Mondays.’s “Groooovy” as the ending. The series is produced by 100studio, with character design by Suzuki Go and music by Yamada Yutaka.

Key Details
Like Mondays

Tour Dates: The “FRIDAY MOOD JAPAN TOUR 2026” includes:

  • October 3: Sapporo (cube garden, two shows)
  • October 11: Nagoya (Bottom Line)
  • October 18: Fukuoka (Drum Logos)
  • October 25: Osaka (BIGCAT)
  • November 7: Okayama (Yebisuya PRO, two shows)
  • November 8: Takamatsu (DIME)
  • November 28: Sendai (darwin, two shows)
  • December 5: Tokyo (Zepp DiverCity, finale)

Tickets are available via lottery (closing June 17) and general sale (starting July 11).

Frequently Asked Questions

[Question 1] Is “Groooovy” the first time I Don’t Like Mondays. Has worked with an anime?
No. Their 2022 track “PAINT” was previously used as an anime theme, marking their debut in the genre.

[Question 2] When and where will “Groooovy” be released?
The single will be available for digital purchase on July 3. The anime *BLACK TORCH* will premiere on July 4 on TOKYO MX and digital platforms.

[Question 3] How can fans purchase tickets for the Japan tour?
Tickets are available through an official lottery (closing June 17) and general sale (starting July 11). Premium tickets (¥9,300) include exclusive merchandise, while general admission is ¥7,800.

With both the anime and tour on the horizon, which aspect of this collaboration are you most excited to experience?