[Nostalgic Songs] A compilation of classic anime themes that hit home for those born in the Showa and Heisei eras

Dan Dan Kokoro HikaretekuFIELD OF VIEW

[Duet with the original artist] DAN DAN Kokoro Hikareteku / FIELD OF VIEW’s Yuya Asaoka & CHIAKI

This song is characterized by its refreshing melody and lyrics that gradually intensify the feeling of being in love.

Captivated by the other person’s smile, it conveys a positive determination to break free from the darkness and the courage to embark on a new adventure.

Released in March 1996 by FIELD OF VIEW, the track features a powerful performance by the band and emotive vocals in perfect harmony, and it also drew attention as the opening theme for the anime Dragon Ball GT.

With heartwarming lyrics by Izumi Sakai and a memorable melodic line by Tetsurō Oda, this is a highly recommended song for those who want to relate to the feelings of being in love or look back on memories of their youth.

The Star of the SeineColumbia Cradle Society

The Star of the Seine / Arène Columbia Yurikago-kai

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.

Defeat Galactor!Columbia Cradle Society

Defeat Galactor!

Set to a powerful, fast-paced melody, this work portrays the heroic exploits of the Science Ninja Team protecting the peace of Earth.

The clear voices of the Columbia Yurikago-kai further enhance the energetic feel of the piece.

Celebrating the brave figures who fight using the power of science and ninja techniques, the song brings dreams and hope to children.

Used as the ending theme for Science Ninja Team Gatchaman, which began airing in 1972, it captured the hearts of many viewers throughout its 105-episode run.

The lyrics were written by the Tatsunoko Production Literary Department, and the music was composed by Asei Kobayashi.

Evoking empathy for protagonists with a pure sense of justice, this is a perfect track for anyone seeking an inspiring anthem that resonates.

It’s recommended listening when you want to feel uplifted.

Song of Hakushon DaimaoYuri Shimazaki

Song of Hakushon Daimao

Starting with adorable opening sound effects, the friendly lyrics vividly conjure the image of a great demon king emerging from a magic jar.

His character—honest, quick to tears, and full of human warmth—is wonderfully portrayed, making this a heartwarming piece that children and adults alike can enjoy.

Yuri Shimazaki’s bright, soaring vocals further enhance the comedic storytelling atmosphere.

Released by Nippon Columbia in October 1969, it gained popularity as the opening theme for a Fuji TV–broadcast anime airing at the same time.

It’s a perfect track for moments when everyone wants to have fun together—like family time on holidays or children’s events.

Brave RaideenMasato Shimon

Brave Raideen

Set to a march-like midtempo that lifts the spirit, the song—paired with Masato Shimon’s expansive vocals—feels as if it portrays a radiant guardian of the skies soaring through the light.

Its friendly, accessible melody, beloved by children and adults alike, vividly depicts a righteous hero’s bravery, infused with a sense of duty to protect peace and a steadfast resolve to carry the hopes of the people.

Broadcast as the opening theme for a robot anime that began in April 1975, it earned high acclaim as a masterpiece that perfectly captured the show’s worldview.

In November 1980, a soundtrack album was released by Nippon Columbia, and it continues to captivate many fans.

It’s a track that, when played during your morning commute to work or school, makes you feel like the protagonist yourself and gives you the courage to face a brand-new day.

Let’s do it with a bang! The Way of BaseballYumi Chiba, Young Fresh, Korogi '73

Let's do it in one go! The Way of Baseball

A heartwarming classic, brimming with humor and capturing the feelings of those devoted to baseball, was born in September 1977.

The lively back-and-forth by Yumi Chiba, Young Fresh, and Korogi ’73 creates a bright, powerful harmony that brilliantly conveys a burning passion for the sport.

Broadcast as the opening theme for the anime “Ippatsu Kanta-kun,” it was also included on the album “Tatsunoko Pro Daizenshū” in October of the same year.

The protagonist—struggling with the gap between ideals and reality yet refusing to give up on his dreams—leaves a lasting impression.

It’s recommended not only for baseball enthusiasts but also as a motivational song that gently encourages anyone striving toward their goals.

To the Rock RiverKumiko Osugi

To Rock River

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.