Kakegurui Theme Song Lyrics
Behind the Music: Meaning & Story
The Kakegurui opening theme, “Deal with the devil,” is performed by Tia and produced by ryo (supercell). Debuting in 2017, the song is a frantic blend of jazz-fusion and rock, perfectly mirroring the high-stakes, chaotic atmosphere of Hyakkaou Private Academy. The aggressive piano melodies and shifting rhythms mimic the unpredictable nature of gambling.
The lyrics and accompanying visuals highlight Yumeko Jabami’s obsessive relationship with risk. Phrases like “Dealing with the devil” and “Saa, kakegurui mashou!” (Let’s gamble until we go mad!) serve as the series’ mantra. The song emphasizes that in Yumeko’s world, the thrill of the bet is more important than the actual winnings or losses, depicting gambling as a consuming, almost carnal desire.
The production by MAPPA for the opening sequence is notable for its surreal, food-themed metaphors for gambling, which are elevated by the song’s jazzy, “big band” energy. It has remained one of the most stylistically distinct anime openings of the decade.