[Classic Hits] Popular Anime Songs Representing the Showa Era. Also Introducing Recommended Anime Songs!
There are so many masterpieces from the Showa-era anime that have gone down in history, aren’t there?
Even if you don’t remember the plots that well, many people can still sing the theme songs—or the moment they hear a song, the anime comes rushing back.
Here, we’re showcasing a generous selection, including anime songs that were big hits in the Showa period and tracks that are being reappraised today through the lens of city pop’s popularity.
When you get together with friends from the same generation who watched those shows, a karaoke session with a “Showa anime songs only” rule is sure to be a blast.
And of course, even if you don’t know much about anime from that era but are curious, please give these songs a listen!
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Classic Hits: Popular Anime Songs Representing the Showa Era. Also Introducing Recommended Anime Songs! (11–20)
Pegasus FantasyMAKE-UP
The fourth single by MAKE-UP, a five-piece rock band that gained popularity with hard rock and metal-infused tracks centered around vocalist Nobuo Yamada.
The song was created as the opening theme for the TV anime Saint Seiya and is still frequently performed live by DAIDA LAIDA, the rock band Yamada currently belongs to.
Its arrangement, full of the speed and explosive energy characteristic of shonen manga, surely thrilled viewers waiting in front of their TVs for the anime to begin.
A timeless classic that reaffirms the strong affinity between rock and anime.
A Tripper in a Strange LandMaiko Okamoto
A pre-debut single released in August 1984 by Maiko Okamoto when she was 13.
It was used as the first opening theme for the anime Magical Fairy Persia, airing from episode 1 through 31.
The song is characterized by its light, pop sound and lyrics that capture the adventurous spirit of a dreaming girl.
Interwoven feelings of anticipation and anxiety toward the unknown symbolize a journey of self-discovery and growth.
It was also included on the soundtrack Magical Fairy Persia: Music Edition released in October of the same year.
This is a recommended track when you want to take a step toward new experiences or set out on a journey to find yourself.
Koala Boy KokkiAkasaka Komachi
Used as the opening theme for the anime Koala Boy Kocky, which aired from October 1984 to March of the following year, this song captured children’s hearts at the time with its fun, catchy melody.
The cute lyrics, depicting the cheerful everyday life of Kocky, a young koala, and his friends, are enough to make your heart flutter just by listening.
Incidentally, Akasaka Komachi later achieved great success as Princess Princess, and this track can be considered their starting point.
It’s recommended for those who feel nostalgic for the Showa era or are looking for a heartwarming tune.
The magic spell of love is ‘Sukitokimekitokisu.’Sayaka Ito
This song is packed with sweet-and-sour youthful memories that tickle the hearts of those in love.
Sayaka Ito’s powerful vocals brilliantly capture the emotions of a girl swayed by romance.
Released on October 5, 1982, this single by Sayaka Ito was used as the opening theme for the Fuji TV anime Sasuga no Sarutobi.
As a track that symbolizes 1980s pop culture, it continues to be beloved by many fans.
It’s recommended for anyone troubled by love or wishing to cherish pure feelings.
Whenever you want to reminisce about those nostalgic school days, be sure to give it a listen.
Invitation of WakakusaEri Nitta
This song has a refreshing charm, as if a breezy scent of fresh young grass were drifting through the air.
Its gentle melody and soft vocals paint a world brimming with youth and hope.
The lyrics, filled with feelings of love and adolescence, are sure to resonate deeply with listeners.
Released in February 1987 as Eri Nitta’s fifth single, it was also used as the opening theme for the anime “Tales of Little Women.” It can be seen as a song emblematic of the idol boom of the time.
Highly recommended for those who want to relive nostalgic days of youth or be soothed by warm, tender vocals.
Go! Go! TritonHide Yūki, Suginami Children’s Chorus
A song performed by Hide Yūki and the Suginami Children’s Chorus as the theme for Triton of the Sea, which aired on television in 1972.
Lyricist Haruo Hayashi and composer Hiromasa Suzuki wove feelings of courage and adventure into the work’s powerful melody and lyrics.
Hide Yūki’s R&B-tinged vocals intertwine exquisitely with the children’s fresh, clear voices, creating a harmony that lights a beacon of hope in listeners’ hearts.
The music vividly portrays the adventures of the boy Triton set against the backdrop of the Atlantis civilization.
It is a classic that remains deeply etched in the hearts of anime fans.
Classic Hits: Popular Anime Songs Representing the Showa Era. Also Featuring Recommended Anime Songs! (21–30)
GeGeGe no KitaroIkuzo Yoshi
When it comes to iconic anime songs of the Showa era, this track is a must.
Yoshikazu Ikuzō’s distinctive vocals and the upbeat, pop-style arrangement leave a strong impression.
Musically signaling a new direction for anime, the song briskly conveys the ghosts’ mysterious, carefree world.
Released in October 1985, it was used as the opening theme for the third series of the TV anime GeGeGe no Kitaro.
This series, which achieved a peak viewership rating of 29.
6%, became one of the most popular entries in the franchise’s history.
It’s a perfect pick for those who want to enjoy nostalgic anime songs or savor the atmosphere of the Showa era.