Anime songs that were hits in the 1990s. Recommended masterpieces and popular tracks.
Back in the 1990s, it still wasn’t the age of the internet.
These days, late-night anime and VOD subscriptions are the norm, but when you think of 90s anime, it was all about those early evening broadcasts.
Many of you probably spent your grade-school days rushing home after classes and turning on the TV right away.
This time, we’re featuring anime songs from that nostalgic 90s era!
Be sure to look for tracks from the shows you were obsessed with.
They’re great picks to keep in mind for karaoke, too!
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- A coming-of-age song that was a hit in the ’90s. A classic and popular track in Japanese music.
- [Nostalgic] A special feature on legendary anime theme songs: revisiting those classic tracks
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- Including global smash hits! Anime songs recommended for Gen Z
- [Nostalgic & Latest] A Special Feature on Anime Songs Recommended for People in Their 20s
- 1990s J-Pop to listen to in summer: classic and hit summer songs
- [Hot & Cool] Up-tempo, hype-inducing anime song
Anime songs that were hits in the 1990s. Recommended masterpieces and popular tracks (1–10)
Wild FlowersRAMAR
Released in 1999, this is rock band RAMAR’s fourth single and the theme song for the MBS/TBS anime “Zoids.” Its light, refreshing acoustic-guitar backing and energizing melody make it a pleasure to listen to.
The band itself originally came from the visual kei scene and was discovered by X JAPAN’s YOSHIKI, releasing their debut album on Extasy Records.
Back then, many visual kei bands followed a similar path…
Rival!Matsumoto Rika
Featuring Rica Matsumoto’s powerful vocals, this work is a popular opening theme from the Pokémon (Pocket Monsters) series.
It was released in March 1999.
Its defining feature is a fiery sound that feels like it channels the heat of battle directly into the music.
It has been used in various contexts, including anime films.
On the Oricon charts, it ranked for 10 weeks, peaking at No.
13.
With lyrics themed around friendship and growth, it brilliantly conveys the feelings of Pokémon Trainers.
A must-listen if you want to enjoy a nostalgic ’90s anime song!
Mystery of SoundTsuburaya Yūko
A song by Yuko Tsuburaya produced by Tetsuya Komuro, released in December 1996.
It was the theme song for the theatrical anime The Kindaichi Case Files.
Characterized by an electronic dance beat, it gradually builds up and gets you excited as you listen.
The lyrics convey a desire to keep believing in someone important, giving it a bittersweet feel.
It might even make you want to say that famous line!
Anime songs that were hits in the 1990s. Recommended masterpieces and popular songs (11–20)
Goodbye, civilizationbakufū suranpu
Released in 1992, this single by Bakufu Slump was used as the theme song for the TV anime “Tsuyoshi Shikkari Shinasai.” Sunplaza Nakano’s lyrics make a powerful impact.
It’s no surprise they were once called one of Sony’s “big three novelty bands” in the ’80s.
Many people will likely feel a wave of nostalgia when they hear the chorus melody.
By the way, the coupling track “Namida 3” was also used as the ending theme for the same anime.
It’s like I’ve gone back to being a girl.ZARD
A ZARD classic that deeply resonates in the heart, along with memories of the ’90s.
Released in September 1998, it was also used as the theme song for the film Detective Conan: The Fourteenth Target.
Izumi Sakai’s clear, translucent voice beautifully conveys a sense of wistful emotion.
Many listeners likely related to the lyrics that look back on one’s past self while quietly holding feelings for someone precious.
Filled with the pain of heartbreak and the nostalgia of youth, this work offers a different kind of richness when listened to now as an adult.
Step by StepTakahashi Yumiko
This song is memorable for its uplifting, empowering lyrics.
Released in April 1990 as Yumiko Takahashi’s debut single, it was used as the opening theme for the TV anime Mashin Hero Wataru 2.
Its upbeat, energetic pop sound pairs beautifully with her refreshing vocals.
The lyrics express a resolve to take a new step forward, conveying the importance of moving toward the future.
It’s a perfect track for anyone feeling nostalgic for ’90s anime songs.
WE GOTTA POWERKageyama Hironobu
When it comes to the theme song of Dragon Ball, it simply has to start with Hironobu Kageyama’s voice.
Released in 1993, this track was used as the latter opening theme for the Dragon Ball Z TV anime.
Kageyama’s powerful vocals, the up-tempo sound, and Yukinojo Mori’s brilliant lyrics that perfectly match the work—all of it boasts a quality that’s like the gold standard for anime songs.
Even the title, which ignores grammatical meaning, is amazing in how it prioritizes sheer momentum!