[Showa Classics] A Collection of Nostalgic 70s Anime Songs
Back in the 1970s, many iconic anime that represent Japan were broadcast.
Not only the anime themselves, but their theme songs have also captivated many people since those days.
In this article, we’ll introduce a wide selection of nostalgic anime songs from the ’70s for those who remember that era.
We’ve picked everything from timeless standards you still hear often today to unforgettable classics you might not have heard recently but can hum the moment they start playing.
As you look back on those times, take this opportunity to sit back and enjoy these nostalgic masterpieces.
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[Showa Era Classics] A Collection of Nostalgic 1970s Anime Songs (31–40)
To the Rock RiverKumiko Osugi
The 1977 anime theme song sung by Kumiko Osugi, known for her clear and beautiful voice, is a classic that refreshingly conveys a heartwarming tale of friendship.
Set against lush natural scenery, the encounters and adventures of a boy and a raccoon are portrayed alongside a rich melody.
The gentle lyrics, filled with gratitude to God and pure friendship, resonate deeply with listeners.
Released as a single by Nippon Columbia, the song won the Golden Hit Award in 1977 and ranked second in Oricon’s year-end chart (TV Anime/Children’s Songs category) the same year.
Beloved across generations, this is a warmly recommended track that families can enjoy together.
Galaxy Express 999Godiego
Speaking of Godiego’s signature songs, this is the one—released in July 1979 and widely known as the theme song for an animated film based on Leiji Matsumoto’s work.
It was commissioned by a film producer who, after seeing their concert beloved by audiences of all ages, asked them to create it.
The lyrics, interweaving English and Japanese, strongly reflect themes of hope, adventure, and growth.
The changing melody of the chorus grips listeners’ hearts, delivering a fresh sense of wonder in any era.
This piece can be called a song that should be passed down across generations, as it gives the courage and determination to overcome past hardships and carve out a new future.
The Way of Karate, The Way of ManhoodTeruasa Yamazaki
Karate Baka Ichidai is a manga written by Ikki Kajiwara that was serialized in Weekly Shonen Magazine, and it was adapted into a TV anime from October 1973 to September 1974.
The ending theme is Karate-dō Otoko-michi, sung by karateka Teruasa Yamazaki.
The Star of the SeineColumbia Cradle Society
Set in Paris during the French Revolution, this work, which colors the story of a young girl, is marked by the beautiful vocals of Arène and the Columbia Yurikago-kai.
Carried by a brave yet wistful melody, it conveys the heroine’s steadfast will and solitude as she fights for freedom and love.
French phrases woven throughout further enhance the work’s distinctive world.
The LP record was released by Nippon Columbia in June 1975 and was used as the opening theme for the television anime of the same name.
One month after the anime began airing, Arène visited Japan and held six events mainly in the Kanto region.
With its moving, beautiful melody and crystalline vocals, this is a recommended track for anyone who wants to immerse themselves in the story’s world along with nostalgic memories.
Song of Steel JeegIchiro Mizuki
The 1975 robot anime theme song, woven from powerful vocals and melody, portrays an epic tale of a righteous hero battling an evil army.
With a valiant composition by Chuumei Watanabe and lyrics by Haruo Hayashi that stirringly express the protagonist’s sense of mission and responsibility, the piece is perfectly complemented by Ichirou Mizuki’s passionate singing.
Included on the album “Super Robot Spirits: Theme Song Best Collection 2,” this track has colored numerous iconic scenes of giant robots in combat.
It’s a recommended song for those who resonate with heroes of justice or are looking for an uplifting, courage-inspiring anthem.
[Showa Classics] A Collection of Nostalgic 1970s Anime Songs (41–50)
Song of GambaHiromasa Kawahara
Hiroaki Kawahara delivers a powerful performance of a song that shines in the history of 1970s anime programs.
Riding an energetic melody, it’s a rousing anthem that calls for the courage to set off on an adventure and the importance of bonds with friends.
Its bright, cheerful rhythm conveys the excitement of an adventure that makes anyone’s heart leap.
Released as a single in January 1975, the song was used as the opening theme for a TV anime broadcast from April to September of the same year.
Like the anime’s story, it centers on friendship and bonds, expressing the determination to face hardships and a positive spirit.
It’s a track that gives you strength and courage when you’re feeling down or want to take on something new.
Now the Earth awakensNaosumi Kamata, Yuko Yamaji
Future Boy Conan is a television anime set in a post–Final War world, broadcast from April to October 1978.
It is also known as a work directed by Hayao Miyazaki.
The opening theme was sung by Naozumi Kamata and Yūko Yamaji.