Anime songs recommended for people in their 40s, from nostalgic classics to the latest hits.

LieShido

SID “Lie” Music Video

When it comes to nostalgic anime songs, many people probably think of this track by SID.

Its bittersweet, beautiful melody and profound lyrics really resonate.

The delicate portrayal of lost love and human relationships grips listeners’ hearts.

Released in April 2009, this song was used as the ending theme for the popular anime Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood and was loved by many.

It’s recommended not only for anime fans, but also for anyone who relates to the ache of unrequited love or the complexities of relationships.

It might be nice to listen to it while reminiscing with friends.

Well then,SURFACE

SURFACE – Now then

Let me introduce a song that revives that rush of speed that makes you want to break into a run, alongside nostalgic anime visuals.

SURFACE’s single “Saa,” released in November 1998, electrified viewers at the time as the opening theme for the TV anime Mamotte Shugogetten! There’s a famous episode about how the lyrics and melody each member brought in miraculously clicked the moment they tried them together with a “Ready, go!” It’s a straightforward rock number that blasts away hesitation.

It was featured on a TV program in October 2015 and drew fresh attention again—proof that it continues to be loved across generations.

If you thrust your fist into the air with your friends to the striking chant at the start of the chorus, the passion of that era will come flooding back, and your karaoke room will instantly be wrapped in the feverish energy of a live venue.

TacticsTHE YELLOW MONKEY

THE YELLOW MONKEY – Tactics -2022 Remaster- (Official Audio)

Many people might feel nostalgic about it as the ending theme of the anime Rurouni Kenshin: Meiji Swordsman Romantic Story.

It’s a rock number marked by the glamour of glam rock and a danceable beat that makes you want to move.

Kazuya Yoshii’s sultry vocals blend perfectly with the band’s distinctive sensual vibe, captivating listeners.

Released in February 1996 as a double A-side single, this track was a recut from the classic album FOUR SEASONS.

There’s even an anecdote that Yoshii strongly pushed to release it as a single at the time, making it a song that captures the band’s upward momentum.

The chorus has a wonderful sense of openness, making it perfect for getting fired up with friends of the same generation.

I’m only gazing at you.Daikoku Maki

I'm only gazing at you.

The moving 1993 hit “Anata Dake Mitsumeteru” is a classic that deeply resonates with people in their 30s who remember that era.

Chosen as the ending theme for the TV anime SLAM DUNK, the song continues to be loved by many fans today.

Maki Ohguro’s passionate vocals and lyrics that vividly express a woman in love deliver an undying sense of emotion.

The way she portrays romance is sprinkled with the trends and culture of the time, conveying the spirit of the ’90s to the present.

Why not listen again and relive those unforgettable, fiery feelings?

The sun rises again and again.Dragon Ash

Dragon Ash “The sun rises again and repeats”

A single released in May 1998, this monumental work established Dragon Ash’s early style.

Chosen as the opening theme for the TV anime DT Eightron, the track features the trio fusing rap and rock to create a distinctive groove.

Kj’s message—both wistful and powerful—will likely resonate deeply with those who spent their youth wrestling with similar struggles.

Despite its epic length of over seven minutes, its relaxed tempo makes it comfortable to sing even at karaoke.

On your way home from work, sing it while recalling the passion of those days, and you’re sure to feel energized for tomorrow.

A third of pure-hearted feelingsSIAM SHADE

A third of pure-hearted feelings

Do you know the passionate love song that colored the late-’90s J-Rock scene? Released as a single by SIAM SHADE in November 1997, it was used as the ending theme for the hugely popular anime Rurouni Kenshin: Meiji Swordsman Romantic Story and became the band’s biggest hit.

Also included on the album SIAM SHADE IV: Zero, this classic masterfully fuses hard-edged instrumentation with a catchy melody.

One of its greatest charms is that, despite the band’s high level of musicianship, the chorus is so familiar and easy for anyone to sing along to.

It’s incredibly well-known—just the intro is enough to trigger cheers.

Try singing it when you want to create a sense of unity at a get-together with friends from the same generation!

Saint Seiya Myth ~Soldier Dream~Kageyama Hironobu & BROADWAY

Saint Seiya Myth ~Soldier Dream~ (An Acoustic Guitar Duo’s Shady Journey!! Live ver.)

It’s a landmark anime song that unfolds a dramatic, grand-scale worldview.

Featuring Hironobu Kageyama’s powerful vocals and BROADWAY’s exhilarating, fast-paced sound, it’s an irresistibly compelling track.

The lyrics, depicting the mission and friendship of warriors who fight with their lives shining, and their hope for the future, are sure to set listeners’ hearts ablaze.

Released in May 1988, it gained popularity as the opening theme for a TV Asahi anime.

In May 2019, a male contestant who performed this song on NHK Nodo Jiman was crowned the first Reiwa-era anime song champion.

Highly recommended not only for those who enjoyed anime in their youth, but for anyone with a fiery spirit.