[Nostalgic] Classic and Popular Anime Songs Recommended for People in Their 30s

LionMay’n / Megumi Nakajima

Lion

A duet sung by two women, released as the opening theme for Macross Frontier.

The song centers on a love triangle that grows more serious as the story progresses, and it’s one of the most popular tracks in the series.

It was a standout masterpiece when it came out in 2008 and remains beloved by anisong fans to this day.

The performance and chorus are top-notch, and it gives me chills every time I listen.

It’s a quintessential anisong, so I’d love for people beyond anime fans to give it a listen.

MAGIC OF LOVETOo’S

MAGIC OF LOVE - Japan ACG

The suspicious-sounding intro and melody get stuck in your head.

It’s the opening theme of the anime “Magical Circle Guru Guru,” based on the manga by Hiroyuki Eto.

The artist TOo’S is a vocal unit featuring actress Ranran Suzuki as the singer.

Her voice has a sultry quality that’s wonderful.

The upbeat lyrics, filled with anticipation for the future, are very anime-like and excellently done.

The musical style is rhythmic psychedelic music—an addictive number, to be sure.

Legend of ThunderNorihiko Tanimoto

Legend of the Galactic Warlords Rai OP FULL 'Thunder Legend'

Legend of the Galactic Heroes: Rai is a science fiction manga by Joji Manabe, and a TV anime adaptation aired from April 1994 to March 1995.

Norihiko Tanimoto, who sang the opening theme, later changed his stage name to Kentaro Hayami and became one of the singing hosts on the children’s program Okaasan to Issho.

In the Morning of DeterminationAqua Timez

Aqua Timez 'Ketsui no Asa ni' Music Video (Theme song of the film 'Brave Story')

This song resonates with lyrics full of kindness and empathy.

Without hiding its own naivety, it gently conveys the desire to live life in one’s own way, carried by a warm, soothing melody.

It tenderly embraces everyday doubts and inner conflicts, as well as the ache of not being able to speak one’s true feelings, resulting in a track that stands by every listener.

Released by Aqua Timez in July 2006, it drew attention as the theme song for the animated film Brave Story.

It was also used in Sapporo Beer’s New Year Sports Special: Hakone Ekiden commercial, and has been loved by many.

This is a song you’ll want to hear when your heart is wavering or when you’re facing an important decision.

It’s also easy to follow the melody for karaoke, allowing you to sing it with heartfelt emotion.

Promise of SunflowersMotohiro Hata

Motohiro Hata – “Himawari no Yakusoku” Music Video

The song by Motohiro Hata, written specifically as the theme for a Doraemon film, explores friendship and love, portraying the beauty of bonds that transcend time.

It is a heartwarming classic that gently accepts parting from a loved one while conveying the importance of continuing to hope for a reunion, expressed through warm vocals and melody.

Released as the theme for the 3DCG animated film “STAND BY ME Doraemon,” which premiered in August 2014, the track reached No.

10 on the Oricon charts and is also included on the album “Ao no Koukei” (Blue Scenery).

The moving story and Hata’s clear, transparent voice harmonize beautifully, making it a work beloved across generations.

It’s the perfect song for those who cherish memories with loved ones or want to sing a heartfelt piece at karaoke.

HEART OF SWORD ~Before Dawn~T.M.Revolution

T.M.Revolution 'HEART OF SWORD ~Before Dawn~'

This is a gem of a song, known as the ending theme of the anime Rurouni Kenshin, that powerfully sings of loneliness and hope.

Set in the stillness before dawn, its strong will to believe in one’s own path and move forward is expressed through a forceful melody.

Its striking, tempestuous sound and emotionally rich vocals resonate together, piercing deeply into the listener’s heart.

Released as T.

M.

Revolution’s third single in November 1996, it was used twice as an ending theme during the anime’s broadcast run.

It has been included on numerous acclaimed records, such as the albums “restoration LEVEL→3” and “B★E★S★T.” When you feel lost in life or are facing an important decision, listening to this song is sure to give you the courage to take a new step forward.

true blueZONE

ZONE – True Blue [PV]

This song by the girls’ rock band ZONE blends a refreshing vibe with power.

It drew attention when it was chosen as the opening theme for Astro Boy: Tetsuwan Atom, a remake of Tetsuwan Atom, an important work in the history of Japanese anime.

The sound shifts from tones tinged with unease to a bright, open feeling toward the chorus, strongly emphasizing that refreshing atmosphere.

The lyrics express a wish to stay close and support someone precious, evoking the image of Astro Boy’s strength and kindness.

When the members of ZONE layer their voices, you can feel their smiles—another point that conveys the bonds between friends.