[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!
- [Showa Classics] A Collection of Nostalgic 70s Anime Songs
- [Nostalgic] A roundup of anime songs and theme songs that were hits in the 1980s
- Recommended anime songs for people in their 50s. Classic and popular anime theme songs.
- Anime songs recommended for people in their 40s, from nostalgic classics to the latest hits.
- Anime songs recommended for people in their 60s: from nostalgic classics to the latest hits
- [Nostalgic Songs] A compilation of classic anime themes that hit home for those born in the Showa and Heisei eras
- Moving and iconic anime songs, popular tracks
- Nostalgic anime songs. Anime theme songs full of memories.
- Including global smash hits! Anime songs recommended for Gen Z
- [Nostalgic] Classic and Popular Anime Songs Recommended for People in Their 30s
- [Collection of Epic Songs] A compilation of cool anime songs chosen by anime fans
- Touching Anime Ballads That Make You Cry [Moving & Heart-Wrenching]
- Only famous artists! Anime songs that energize the Reiwa era
Classic Hits: Popular Anime Songs Representing the Showa Era. Also Introducing Recommended Anime Songs! (41–50)
Gutsy FrogSusumu Ishikawa
“The Gutsy Frog” was a TV anime that aired for about two years starting in 1972 (Showa 47).
The song with the same title served as its opening theme.
A new series, “New Gutsy Frog,” aired in 1981, and more recently, a live-action drama adaptation was broadcast in 2015.
In the TV drama version, the same opening theme was used in a lavish arrangement where the entire cast sang together.
Whether you watched it in real time or not, this is a famous anime song that many people are likely to know.
Classic Hits: Popular Anime Songs Representing the Showa Era. Also Introducing Recommended Anime Songs! (51–60)
Hello, SadnessYuki Saito
Here’s the song that was released in 1986 as the first opening theme for the anime Maison Ikkoku.
It was also used in a Shiseido commercial, so some of you might recognize the chorus.
The arrangement features a sound that epitomizes late-’80s pop, giving it a nostalgic feel.
Yuki Saito’s slightly lisping vocal delivery is also very charming.
Incidentally, the composer is none other than Koji Tamaki.
It truly was a golden era, in the best sense.
Theme of Jungle EmperorTadahiko Hirano
Among the anime songs that defined the Showa era, this piece sung by Tadahiko Hirano holds a special place.
The grand composition by Isao Tomita intertwined with Hirano’s rich baritone creates a breathtaking soundscape.
The lyrics—featuring the jungle king Leo’s roar and his calls to his companions—powerfully convey hope for the future and a yearning for freedom.
Known as the theme song for the 52-episode anime series that aired from October 1965 to September of the following year, the track was notable for its groundbreaking, weighty musical style for the time and earned high acclaim, including multiple awards from the Ministry of Health and Welfare in 1966.
It’s a memorable song for those who watched the anime, and a highly recommended track that lets even newcomers feel the origins of anime music.
Teleportation -Unidentified in Love-Ushio Hashimoto
This song was a major hit as the first opening theme for the anime Esper Mami, based on the original work by Fujiko F.
Fujio, released in 1987.
Created by the duo of lyricist Ikki Matsumoto and composer Keiichi Oku, both leading figures of the time, it’s a brisk pop tune that represents the quintessential 80s anime song.
The lyrics vividly capture the delicate feelings of a teenage girl’s first love, and Ushio Hashimoto’s clear, translucent vocals beautifully express the uncertainty of budding romance.
It remains a beloved track among anime fans and is still frequently sung at karaoke today.
As a youth anthem infused with the charm of the Showa era, it’s highly recommended for fans of nostalgic anime.
Song of Time BokanMasayuki Yamamoto, Sakamoto Children's Choir
This piece was born in 1975 as the opening theme for Time Bokan, a beloved anime representing the Showa era.
The lively melody and vocals by Masayuki Yamamoto and the Sakamoto Children’s Choir captured the hearts of audiences across generations, from children to adults.
The lyrics “back and forth between the past and the future, yesterday and today” evoke the spirit of time-traveling adventures.
In 1998, the song was included in Time Bokan Masterpiece Album SINCE 1975–1983, and it remains cherished as a classic anime tune.
It’s a recommended track not only for adults reminiscing about the past, but also for younger listeners who enjoy a retro vibe.
Tetsujin 28-goDuke Aces
Here is a classic anime song that represents the Showa era.
Released in 1963 as the theme song for the anime Tetsujin 28-go, this track—sung by Duke Aces with a powerful melody and memorable lyrics—has been loved by generations, from children to adults.
Through the dual nature of Tetsujin 28-go as both a “champion of justice” and a “pawn of evil,” it expresses universal themes such as how technology is used and human responsibility.
Also included on the album CM WORKS, the song carries the atmosphere of the Showa period while presenting profound questions relevant to modern society.
It’s a recommended listen not only for anime fans but also for anyone seeking a sense of Showa-era nostalgia.
Osomatsu-kun SongSextuplets (Midori Kato, Keiko Yamamoto, Haruko Kitahama, Yoshie Azuma), Iyami (Kyoji Kobayashi), Chibita (Kazue Tanoue)
Released in 1966, this song became a big hit as the theme for the TV anime Osomatsu-kun.
The six brothers’ lively singing captivated children at the time.
With its distinctive “Sheh!” shout, it’s a fun tune that makes you want to sing along together.
The lyrics reflect the six brothers’ unity and Chibita’s determined spirit, clearly expressing the anime’s world.
Fujio Akatsuka’s unique humor comes through vividly via the characters’ personalities.
This song, steeped in the Showa era vibe, is perfect for livening up a karaoke session, and it’s also recommended for anyone who wants to enjoy nostalgic anime songs.