Lovely anime song

[Nostalgic] A roundup of anime songs and theme songs that were hits in the 1980s

A Vocaloid producer who is also a music writerWakachan Araki
I started playing guitar in middle school and focused on band activities during my student years. I’ve been a hobbyist Vocaloid producer for over 15 years. After entering the workforce, I gained experience in various roles, including event sound engineering and videography/photography. As a writer, I’ve contributed introduction articles for music and manga websites, and in 2022 I had the opportunity to write the bonus liner notes for IA SUPER BEST. My specialties are Japanese rock, Vocaloid, and manga.

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!

[Nostalgic] Compilation of Anime Songs and Theme Songs That Hit in the '80s (31–40)

Sorrowful WarriorDaisuke Inoue

Sorrowful Warrior

Sorrowful Warrior Inoue Daisuke

Daisuke Inoue, a musician who also thrived as the lead vocalist of Jackie Yoshikawa and The Blue Comets, sadly passed away in 2000.

“Ai Senshi,” chosen as the theme song for the animated film Mobile Suit Gundam II: Soldiers of Sorrow, is memorable for its opening, which begins with a soulful vocal over a sprightly piano.

For those familiar with the film, just hearing it is enough to make your heart swell.

While its melody is challenging to sing at karaoke, it’s an undeniable upper tune that’s sure to hype up the crowd if you can pull it off.

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I am Machiko.Yuko Imada

Miss Machiko: “I Am Machiko” by Yuko Imada FULL — Maicching Machiko-sensei “Watashi wa Machiko” Yuko Imada FULL

I am Machiko Imada Yuko.

“Maicching Machiko-sensei” is an anime based on Takeshi Ebihara’s gag manga.

Its slightly risqué content had some viewers watching with a flutter of excitement.

The opening theme is sung by Yuko Imada.

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ABAYO FLY BYEYamagata Yukio

Ginga Senpuu Brygar – J9 Hard Serenade – 04 – Abayo Fly Bye

ABAYO FLY BYE Yamagata Yukio

Galactic Whirlwind Braiger is the first installment of the J9 series.

It’s a sci-fi robot anime, but because the protagonists dispatch villains, it’s sometimes compared to the Hissatsu series.

ABAYO FLY BYE is an insert song performed by Yukio Yamagata.

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Farewell, gentle daysMamoru Asada

Farewell, Gentle Days / Gankyannons (Daisuke Kase × Haney Mark Kitamura) (January 19, 2019 (5))

Farewell, gentle days — Mamoru Asada

Fang of the Sun Dougram is a real-robot anime directed by Ryosuke Takahashi, characterized by a weighty story depicting a war of independence on a colonized planet.

The opening theme is “Saraba Yasashiki Hibi yo” sung by Mamoru Asada, with the lyrics written by Director Takahashi himself.

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Summer MirageKanako Wada

[Anison] Summer Mirage / Kanako Wada (with lyric subtitles) Kimagure Orange Road, Ending Theme

Summer Mirage Kanako Wada

With its shimmering sound, this song—sung by Kanako Wada—perfectly embodies the summer of the 1980s.

Set to an urban, sophisticated melody, it deftly portrays the unique flutter of a summer romance and the wistful ache that shimmers like a mirage.

The English phrases woven into the lyrics also highlight its stylish, mature vibe.

Released in May 1987, it became the first ending theme for the TV anime Kimagure Orange Road, leaving a lasting impression on many fans alongside the anime’s fresh, youthful world.

As one of Wada’s signature songs, its charm can also be fully enjoyed on the album Esquisse, released the same year.

Put it on for a drive at dusk, and those sweet-and-sour memories of days gone by may vividly come rushing back.

It’s a classic I highly recommend for anyone who wants to immerse themselves in the glittering soundscape of the ’80s or drift into thoughts of a slightly bittersweet summer love story.

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[Nostalgic] Compilation of Anime Songs and Theme Songs That Hit in the ’80s (41–50)

Glass MaskMariko Ashibe

Glass Mask (Mariko Ashibe).wmv

Mariko Ashibe of Glass Mask

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.

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Orphan HachiYuri Shimazaki

Orphan Hachi

Mitsuru-go Hatchi Shimazaki Yuri

Feelings for a mother and hope are woven through a voice that balances gentleness and strength.

With her clear, translucent vocals, Yuri Shimazaki paints scenes that tenderly envelop the story of a small protagonist’s adventure and growth.

You can’t help but empathize with the figure who continues their journey with love and courage in their heart, making this a heartwarming work that gives you the strength to move forward step by step.

Released as a single by Nippon Columbia in May 1970, it captured the hearts of many viewers as the opening theme for the anime “Mitsubachi Māya no Bōken” (Insect Story: Orphan Hacchi).

In 1974, she also performed the theme for the sequel, successfully enriching the world of the series.

It’s the perfect song for when you need encouragement or want to lift someone’s spirits.

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