Anime songs recommended for people in their 60s: from nostalgic classics to the latest hits

Wacky RacesCasey Asanuma

Wacky Races Japan OP Full Chorus, Full Video Singer: Casey Asanuma

This song, which invites listeners into the thrilling world of racing, is known as the theme for a popular anime.

Casey Asanuma’s powerful vocals and the unusual enka-style arrangement create a mysteriously catchy melody.

Released in June 1970, its B-side features a track sung by Shu Otsuka, who voiced Black Wamo.

The lyrics convey the heat and speed of the race, stirring the adventurous spirit of cars and drivers striving for victory.

As you listen, you feel drawn into that vibrant world of racing.

It will resonate not only with those in their 60s who feel nostalgic, but also with younger generations as a fresh sound.

Oak Wood MocKumiko Onogi

Oak Wood Moc

With a bright, lively rhythm and a catchy, child-friendly melody, this heartwarming song conveys the importance of kindness and human bonds.

It expresses the protagonist’s innocence and positive spirit through simple yet memorable phrases, resulting in a familiar tune that anyone can hum along to.

The clear, gentle vocals of Kumiko Onogi and the Columbia Yurikago Kai softly deliver the story’s message.

Released in January 1972, it was used as the opening theme for an anime produced by Tatsunoko Production.

It has continued to be loved for many years and cherished by people of all ages.

It’s a nostalgic track that can be enjoyed with family and friends.

Gamba's SongHiromasa Kawahara

Episode 1: Gamba’s Adventure “THE ADVENTURES OF GAMBA” (1975) | An immortal masterpiece depicting the adventures of mice | TMS 60th Anniversary

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.

Together with Don ChuckKumiko Osugi

Nostalgic anime “The Story of Don Chuck” OP/ED (1975)

The charming theme song born from a beloved 1970s anime is full of appeal that captivates children’s hearts.

Its lively melody and cheerful calls joyfully portray the wonderful friendships among the forest animals.

Kumiko Ōsugi’s clear, transparent voice gently sings of the protagonist’s sense of adventure and bonds with friends.

Released by Canyon Records in June 1975, it was also included on the album “Time of Radiance: Songs of Kindness.” The song was cherished as the opening theme for the anime of the same name, which aired from April to September 1975.

It’s a bright, uplifting tune you can enjoy humming along to and moving your body with together with your children.

My First KissReassured Dad

My First Kiss

A first love that everyone experiences at least once.

Released by Anshin Papa in May 1990, this theme song for the anime Kiteretsu Daihyakka expresses the sweet-and-sour feelings of young love with a uniquely cute singing voice.

It carefully portrays the pure emotions of a boy in love.

The song’s captivating vocals were created using a special technique: the vocals were recorded at half tape speed and then played back at normal speed.

Hi-STANDARD covered the song as My First Kiss on their album Love Is A Battlefield, and in 2016, Rasmus Faber’s cover was used in a Suzuki Baleno commercial.

Please enjoy this memorable track, where heartwarming melodies and lyrics intertwine.

Princess KnightYoko Maekawa, Luna Armonico

Ribbon no Kishi opening

This is the opening theme of the anime that began airing in 1967, based on Osamu Tezuka’s shōjo manga Princess Knight.

The story features Princess Sapphire as both heroine and hero, and it’s often said to have been influenced by the Takarazuka Revue, particularly through the motif of a “beautiful woman in men’s attire.” Its European-style setting is a major part of the work’s appeal, and the fanfare at the beginning and the light, buoyant sound convey a glamorous atmosphere.

Yoko Maekawa’s vocals also reinforce the world of the story; her singing blends bravery and charm, creating a song that seems to portray the way Princess Sapphire lives her life.

ThunderbirdRoyal Knights

Thunderbird

This is the theme song used in Japan for “Thunderbirds,” a work that depicts the exploits of the secret organization International Rescue, which uses super mecha to save people.

Originally a special-effects puppet show broadcast in the UK from 1965 to 1966, the highly popular series expanded to broadcasts and theatrical releases in Japan, as well as a live-action film in the United States.

For the Japanese version, Japanese lyrics were added to the main theme used in the original, and the Royal Knights performed it as the opening theme, clearly conveying the work’s valiant atmosphere.

It has also become a staple marching tune, and it’s likely a song many people have heard even if they don’t know the series.