[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] Compilation of Anime Songs and Theme Songs That Hit in the ’80s (41–50)
Orphan Hachishimazaki 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.
I want to see what I want to see.KiKi
Dash Kappei is a manga by Noboru Rokuda that was serialized in Weekly Shonen Sunday, and it was adapted into a TV anime by Tatsunoko Production.
The story follows the protagonist, Kappei Sakamoto, as he takes on various sports, starting with basketball.
The theme song was sung by KiKi.
I’m Sanpei the fishing fanatic.MOJO
Tsurikichi Sanpei is a manga by Takao Yaguchi that was serialized in Weekly Shonen Magazine, and its TV anime aired from April 1980 to June 1982.
The ending theme is “Ore wa Tsurikichi Sanpei da,” sung by singer-songwriter MoJo.
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.
Summer MirageWada Kanako
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.
Toward the Future ~New Mighty Atom~ANKH
One of Osamu Tezuka’s signature works, the second Astro Boy anime series aired from October 1980 to December 1981.
The ending theme was ANKH’s “Toward the Future ~New Astro Boy~,” which sings about Astro Boy’s abilities.
Dan Dan Kokoro HikaretekuFIELD OF VIEW
This song is characterized by its refreshing melody and lyrics that gradually intensify the feeling of being in love.
Captivated by the other person’s smile, it conveys a positive determination to break free from the darkness and the courage to embark on a new adventure.
Released in March 1996 by FIELD OF VIEW, the track features a powerful performance by the band and emotive vocals in perfect harmony, and it also drew attention as the opening theme for the anime Dragon Ball GT.
With heartwarming lyrics by Izumi Sakai and a memorable melodic line by Tetsurō Oda, this is a highly recommended song for those who want to relate to the feelings of being in love or look back on memories of their youth.