[Showa Classics] A Collection of Nostalgic 70s Anime Songs
Back in the 1970s, many iconic anime that represent Japan were broadcast.
Not only the anime themselves, but their theme songs have also captivated many people since those days.
In this article, we’ll introduce a wide selection of nostalgic anime songs from the ’70s for those who remember that era.
We’ve picked everything from timeless standards you still hear often today to unforgettable classics you might not have heard recently but can hum the moment they start playing.
As you look back on those times, take this opportunity to sit back and enjoy these nostalgic masterpieces.
- Anime songs recommended for people in their 70s: nostalgic theme songs that let you feel the history of anime.
- [Nostalgic] A roundup of anime songs and theme songs that were hits in the 1980s
- [Classic Hits] Popular Anime Songs Representing the Showa Era. Also Introducing Recommended Anime Songs!
- Moving and iconic anime songs, popular tracks
- Recommended anime songs for people in their 50s. Classic and popular anime theme songs.
- Classic and hit songs by nostalgic Japanese idols from the 1970s
- Cute Anime Song Special: From the 1970s to Today!
- Commercial songs from the 70s. Nostalgic TV commercial jingles.
- Anime songs recommended for people in their 60s: from nostalgic classics to the latest hits
- A collection of nostalgic hit songs and classics from the 70s
- [Nostalgic Songs] A compilation of classic anime themes that hit home for those born in the Showa and Heisei eras
- Hit songs in Japan in the late 1960s
- A classic from the good old days! A famous birthday song born in the Showa era.
[Showa Era Classics] Nostalgic 1970s Anime Songs Collection (11–20)
Song of Hakushon DaimaoYuri Shimazaki
Starting with adorable opening sound effects, the friendly lyrics vividly conjure the image of a great demon king emerging from a magic jar.
His character—honest, quick to tears, and full of human warmth—is wonderfully portrayed, making this a heartwarming piece that children and adults alike can enjoy.
Yuri Shimazaki’s bright, soaring vocals further enhance the comedic storytelling atmosphere.
Released by Nippon Columbia in October 1969, it gained popularity as the opening theme for a Fuji TV–broadcast anime airing at the same time.
It’s a perfect track for moments when everyone wants to have fun together—like family time on holidays or children’s events.
Galaxy Express 999Isao Sasaki
Galaxy Express 999 is one of Leiji Matsumoto’s signature works, said to have been inspired by Kenji Miyazawa’s Night on the Galactic Railroad and Maurice Maeterlinck’s The Blue Bird.
As it portrays the struggles of the protagonist, Tetsurō Hoshino, and the absurdities of this world, the work is also characterized by a somewhat dark tonal palette.
The opening theme song likewise carries a nostalgic impression that matches the atmosphere of the series.
It’s a piece that conveys a sense of loneliness—like continuing a journey while believing that one day you’ll reach hope.
Ashita no JoeIsao Bito
Ashita no Joe is a manga written by Asao Takamori and illustrated by Tetsuya Chiba.
It is remembered as one of the most iconic works among sports manga themed around boxing, and it has been adapted in various forms, including theatrical films and live-action movies.
The opening theme song of the anime is notable for its heavy atmosphere and sound that evoke the impression of a battle rather than a sport.
It feels like a piece that expresses a quietly blazing fighting spirit from deep within, conjuring images of grueling training and a bleak, combative air.
Fight! PolymerIsao Sasaki
This is a powerful, up-tempo track brimming with the spirit of 1970s hero anime.
A forceful rock-style performance pairs with fiery vocals reminiscent of steel-like strength, brilliantly conveying the protagonist’s courage and power.
The tense developments and high-velocity rhythm further heighten the realism of battle scenes, making it a superb piece.
Released in October 1974 as a tie-in song for the third installment of Tatsunoko Production’s sci-fi action hero TV anime series, it was later used in a live-action film as well.
Showcasing Isao Sasaki’s overwhelming vocal prowess, this track is perfect for moments when you want to stoke your fighting spirit or boost your motivation.
Fly! GrendizerIsao Sasaki
This is a heroic anthem characterized by a powerful melody and a message that resonates with the heart.
Depicting the exploits of a protagonist and a robot who protect the peace of Earth, the work’s gallant tone vividly expresses a deep appreciation for the planet’s beauty and the preciousness of peace.
Isao Sasaki’s passionate vocals convey courage and hope in the face of invaders from space.
Released in 1975, it was used as the opening theme for the TV anime UFO Robo Grendizer, which aired from that same year through 1977.
It was re-released in June 1998.
Highly recommended for those who want to thrill to the tale of a hero fighting for peace or draw energy from a fiery sense of justice.
Brave RaideenMasato Shimon
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.
[Masterpieces of the Showa Era] A Collection of Nostalgic 1970s Anime Songs (21–30)
Daichan Counting SongYoshida Yoshimi (Tendo Yoshimi)
Inakappe Taisho is a TV anime that depicts the exploits of Daichan, also known as Daisamon Kaze, and is known for its theme song Daichan Kazoewuta, sung by Yoshimi Tendo.
It’s astonishing to learn that she was only 13 years old at the time of the recording.