[Classic Hits] Popular Anime Songs Representing the Showa Era. Also Introducing Recommended Anime Songs!

The Song of DevilmanKeizo Toda

Devilman Song - Keizo Tohda - Key Station Version / Local Station Version Non-Telop OP Devilman

The opening theme of a popular anime powerfully portrays a protagonist who, despite wielding demonic powers, fights for justice, brought to life by Keizo Toda’s husky vocals.

The chorus repeats the hero’s signature finishing moves, which became the envy of children and a hit on playgrounds.

With lyrics by Yū Aku and music by Go Misawa, the song was created as the opening theme for an anime that began airing in July 1972.

Re-released in September 2004, it has grown into a classic beloved across generations.

Its weighty orchestral sound and memorable melodic lines deliver stirring impact and exhilaration.

Highly recommended for fans of justice-driven heroes and those who want to revisit nostalgic Showa-era anime songs.

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.

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.

Babel IIIchiro Mizuki

[Official] Babel II Episode 1: "The Messenger from Five Thousand Years Ago" <1970s Anime>

A powerful, valiant hero song of justice! This work depicts a young psychic boy living in the desert’s Tower of Babel and his three servants as they fight to protect peace on Earth.

Sung with heartfelt passion by Ichiro Mizuki and the Columbia Yurikago-kai as the opening theme for the television anime of the same name, which aired from January to September 1973.

The striking lyrics by the pen name “Toei Ni” pair perfectly with Shunsuke Kikuchi’s exhilarating, fast-paced melody.

Proclaiming hope for the future and the bonds of comrades, this piece continues to be loved as a fiery cheer song that resonates with both children and adults.

I'm Doraemon.Nobuyo Ōyama

I'm Doraemon Nobuyo Ōyama Full

Doraemon is a beloved national anime that has been cherished for a very long time.

It’s no exaggeration to say that Doraemon has become a globally loved character, not just in Japan but overseas as well.

While Wasabi Mizuta, the second-generation voice actor for Doraemon, has become well established in the role, for those of the Showa generation, Nobuyo Oyama’s voice still feels most familiar.

The song ‘Boku Doraemon’ was released in 1979 (Showa 54) and served as the theme song for the TV anime.

There’s also a version sung by the second-generation voice actor, Wasabi Mizuta, so it’s fun to listen and compare the two.

Attack No. 1Kumiko Osugi

Attacker No.1 | Kumiko ÔSUGI

Released in the early 1970s, this song captured the hearts of many with Kumiko Ōsugi’s vocals.

As the theme for an anime depicting the struggles of a women’s volleyball player, it brilliantly expresses the passion and hardships of young people devoted to sports.

Its upbeat, pop-infused sound strongly reflects the hallmarks of girls’ anime theme songs of the time and has an energizing effect on listeners.

Widely known as one of Ōsugi’s signature works, it played an important role in her musical career.

The song is also highly regarded for championing women’s achievements, and it remains popular today, including at karaoke.

It’s a perfect pick for those nostalgic for their youth, as well as for moments when you want to encourage someone who’s giving their all.

Orphan HachiYuri Shimazaki

Orphan Hachi

Feelings for a mother and hope are woven through a voice that balances gentleness and strength.

With her clear, translucent vocals, Yuri Shimazaki paints scenes that tenderly envelop the story of a small protagonist’s adventure and growth.

You can’t help but empathize with the figure who continues their journey with love and courage in their heart, making this a heartwarming work that gives you the strength to move forward step by step.

Released as a single by Nippon Columbia in May 1970, it captured the hearts of many viewers as the opening theme for the anime “Mitsubachi Māya no Bōken” (Insect Story: Orphan Hacchi).

In 1974, she also performed the theme for the sequel, successfully enriching the world of the series.

It’s the perfect song for when you need encouragement or want to lift someone’s spirits.