ClariS: The Enigmatic J-Pop Duo Behind Anime Hits

ClariS is a Japanese pop music duo, initially formed by two anonymous middle school girls known as Clara and Alice, later featuring Karen and Alice, famed for their anime theme songs.Formed in 2009 and debuting in 2010 with 'Irony' for Oreimo, ClariS gained fame for their high-pitched vocals while maintaining anonymity due to school commitments. Managed by SME Records, they provided themes for major anime like Madoka Magica, Nisekoi, and OreGairu. Member changes occurred in 2014 (Karen replacing Clara) and 2021 (Alice graduating, leaving Karen as the sole member).
  • ClariS debuted while its members were still attending middle school. To protect their privacy and allow them to focus on studies, their identities were completely concealed; all promotional material used illustrated avatars.
  • In May 2014, Clara graduated from the group to focus on university entrance exams. She was replaced by Karen, a new member chosen by the management. The transition was announced officially.
  • Alice graduated from the group in May 2021 after completing her studies, leaving Karen as the sole member of ClariS. Karen continues the group's activities as a solo artist under the ClariS name.
  • The group's name 'ClariS' is a combination of 'Clara' and 'Alice', meaning 'clear' and 'bright' respectively, symbolizing a bright and clear future. After the member change, it was redefined to mean 'clear' and 'crystal', retaining the aspiration.