[Nostalgic] A roundup of anime songs and theme songs that were hits in the 1980s
The 1980s were a time when TV anime boosted both its quality and presence alongside advances in technology.
And when it comes to anime songs from that era, the mainstream was tracks that boldly put passion front and center, often with the series title right in the song name.
I bet you’ve got a few unforgettable classics that still stick with you.
In this article, we’ll be introducing hit anime songs from the ’80s one after another.
It’s a playlist that’s perfect for rekindling your childhood spirit—or making brand-new discoveries!
- 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 that were hits in the 1990s. Recommended masterpieces and popular tracks.
- Anime songs recommended for people in their 60s: from nostalgic classics to the latest hits
- [Showa Classics] A Collection of Nostalgic 70s Anime Songs
- [Nostalgic Songs] A compilation of classic anime themes that hit home for those born in the Showa and Heisei eras
- [Classic Hits] Popular Anime Songs Representing the Showa Era. Also Introducing Recommended Anime Songs!
- [Collection of Epic Songs] A compilation of cool anime songs chosen by anime fans
- [Nostalgic] Classic and Popular Anime Songs Recommended for People in Their 30s
- A special feature on classic and hit songs by bands that were active in the 1980s
- 80s commercial songs. A roundup of Japanese songs from the 80s that have been used in commercials.
- Cute Anime Song Special: From the 1970s to Today!
- Get Fired Up! Anime Songs for Men – Classics and New Hits
[Nostalgic] A roundup of anime songs and theme songs that were hits in the 80s (21–30)
It’s not an anime — oh ancient Earthlings who have forgotten your dreams —Arai Masato
Mobile Suit Gundam ZZ is the sequel to Mobile Suit Zeta Gundam.
While it starts off with a comedic tone, the story becomes serious from the middle onward.
The first opening theme is sung by Masahito Arai.
A classic fan quip is that “Saying ‘It’s anime but not anime’ is ridiculous.”
Full of memoriesH₂O
Miyuki is a romantic comedy manga by Mitsuru Adachi that was serialized in Shonen Big Comic, and it was adapted into a TV anime that aired from March 1983 to April 1984.
The ending theme, Omoide ga Ippai, is also well-known as a choral piece.
[Nostalgic] Compilation of Anime Songs and Theme Songs That Hit in the '80s (31–40)
A Member of the Fire BrigadeRATS&STAR
“Megumi no Hito” is a single by Rats & Star released in 1983, which became a hit, reaching number one on the Oricon weekly chart.
It was also used as an insert song in Kinnikuman during a scene where the protagonist dances to lose weight.
TouchIwasaki Yoshimi
Touch is one of Mitsuru Adachi’s signature works, and the anime aired for two years starting in March 1985.
Many people may have watched it not in real time but in reruns.
The opening theme song, sung by Yoshimi Iwasaki, reached No.
12 on the Oricon chart.
Burning HeroOkita Hiroyuki
It’s a quintessential 80s anime song! The vocals blend a boyish sweetness with a husky strength, powerfully conveying pure passion for victory and the unbreakable bonds of friendship.
Sung by Hiroyuki Okita—who was also popular as an actor—this track was the B-side of a single released in November 1983.
As the first opening theme for the national hit soccer anime Captain Tsubasa, it sent Japan into a frenzy.
You could say it’s the perfect song for that peak moment when anticipation of a big win reaches its highest point.
Glass MaskAshibe Mariko
Here is the opening theme from the hugely popular anime Glass Mask, based on Suzue Miuchi’s manga, specifically the 1984 broadcast version.
Its cool-sounding composition seems to reflect the emotions of the characters in the story.
The somewhat delicate, ephemeral vocals are another part of its charm.
The more you listen, the more it grows on you—a classic among anime songs.
The singer, Mariko Ashibe, has also been active as a TV program reporter and as a jazz singer.
Champion of the Universe! God MarsHiura Kazuho
Six God Combination Godmars is a robot anime that emphasizes human drama, and the protagonist’s older brother, Marg, became highly popular among women.
The opening theme is “Champion of the Universe! Godmars,” sung by Kazuho Hiura, notable for its distinctive “pooon” sound effect.