Anime songs that were hits in the 1990s. Recommended masterpieces and popular tracks.

100% CourageHikaru GENJI

Hikaru Genji – 100% Courage (Hikaru Genji – Courage 100% / Korean subtitles)

This is the opening theme of Nintama Rantarō, which has been airing since April 10, 1993 and continues to this day.

It was originally performed by Hikaru GENJI, and has since been passed down and sung by successive Johnny’s groups such as Ya-Ya-yah, Hey! Say! JUMP, NYC, Sexy Zone, and Junior Boys.

I bet many of you can sing it even without looking at the lyrics.

My First Kissanshin papa

My First Kiss (Hajimete no Chuu)

This is the theme song of Fujiko F.

Fujio’s masterpiece, Kiteretsu Daihyakka—a track so distinctive that its quirky vocal effects have inspired countless imitators.

It’s a truly “kiteretsu” (bizarre/clever) approach, which is part of its charm, but the lyrics are what truly shine.

It also carries a slightly wistful atmosphere, making it a tear-jerking anime song.

With adorable spoken lines in the middle, it stands out as one of the most memorable tracks among the many great songs from Kiteretsu Daihyakka.

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Murakami Shinpei

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Lovely youRAZZ MA TAZZ

Lovely You Full

This is the opening theme of Azuki-chan, which aired starting on April 4, 1995.

It was released the same year as the fifth single by the rock band Razz Ma Tazz.

The melody of the chorus really sticks in your head after just one listen.

YOU GET TO BURNINGMatsuzawa Yumi

YOU GET TO BURNING

Aired in 1996, Martian Successor Nadesico was a popular TV anime that combined SF mecha action with romantic comedy elements.

Its opening theme, YOU GET TO BURNING, marked Yumi Matsuzawa’s major-label debut as a vocalist and became a hit, breaking into the top 10 on the Oricon charts.

IN MY DREAMShingōji Eri

[AMV] Brain Powerd OP [Eri Shingyoji – IN MY DREAM]

It’s a wonderful song that makes you feel like you can pursue your own dreams.

It was used as the opening theme for Brain Powerd, which aired on WOWOW.

As her debut single, IN MY DREAM is Eri Shingyoji’s signature track and her biggest hit.

It was released in May 1998.

The lyrics and composition were also done by Eri Shingyoji.

Absolutely no oneZYYG

ZYYG “Zettai ni Daremo” ~30th Anniversary ver~

Many of you may remember it as the theme song for the anime SLAM DUNK, right? Released in 1995 by the Being-affiliated rock band ZYYG, this track marked the beginning of the anime’s second season.

Takayama Seiki’s powerful vocals and the heavy guitar riffs create a tough, hard-edged sound that really electrifies you.

The lyrics strikingly mirror Hanamichi Sakuragi’s stoic resolve after losing to Kainan and vowing to rise again.

When you feel like you’re about to be knocked down by something, listen to this song—it will fire you up with the message that “no one can take your place.” It might just help you find the resolve to face tomorrow.

I can’t even breatheZARD

SARD UNDERGROUND “Breathless (off chorus)” MV

This ZARD classic sets the chest-tightening, heart-racing moment of falling in love to a driving rock sound.

It captures a straightforward love so consuming that you can’t think of anything but the other person.

The lyrics sparkle with the early stages of romance, and Izumi Sakai’s vocals—combining clarity with strength—leave a lasting impression.

Released in March 1998 as their 24th single, it became widely known as the opening theme for the anime “Chuuka Ichiban!” and reached No.

3 on the Oricon Weekly Chart.

Listen to it as a fight song when you’re about to take on something new, and you’ll surely feel courage welling up from deep within.