[Nostalgic Songs] A compilation of classic anime themes that hit home for those born in the Showa and Heisei eras
Don’t we all have anime songs we used to listen to a lot as kids?
You might not remember the story, but you can still sing the opening chorus—pretty relatable, right?
In this article, I’ve rounded up nostalgic anime songs that will take you right back to your childhood the moment you hear them.
I’ve picked tracks from the 1980s to the 2000s, so it should resonate with a wide range of ages.
Take your time and see if you can find that one song from your memories!
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[Nostalgic Hits] A collection of classic anime songs that resonate with those born in the Showa and Heisei eras (11–20)
A Night for OnePorno Graffitti
I saw on the TV news that, thanks to Porno Graffitti, more people are moving to their hometown of Innoshima in Hiroshima Prefecture… The influence artists have is amazing, isn’t it? This song, “Hitori no Yoru,” was released back when Porno Graffitti still had three members.
The simple rock intro, which really brings out the strengths of a three-piece band, is easy on the ears, and vocalist Okano’s high tone is crystal clear with youthful brightness! It was the opening theme for the anime GTO.
Smile BombMasako Mawatari
The only opening theme chosen for the hugely popular anime Yu Yu Hakusho—which recorded an average viewership rating of 17.6%—was Matsuko Mawatari’s “Smile Bomb.” For those who watched Yu Yu Hakusho at the time, it’s likely a nostalgic song.
Its lyrics about the process of growing up and its catchy sound leave a strong impression.
In 2010, Shoko Nakagawa, a self-professed big fan of the anime, covered “Smile Bomb” on her album Shokotan Cover 3 ~Anime Songs Connect Humanity~.
Get WildTM NETWORK
TM NETWORK’s “Get Wild” burst into the spotlight with its techno-tinged, synth-driven sound.
It’s a 1987 work by Tetsuya Komuro, the composer and music producer who dominated the 1990s.
The song was written specifically as the ending theme for the Nippon TV anime series City Hunter, and it reached No.
9 on the Oricon Singles Chart.
Loved for many years, it has spawned numerous remixed versions.
Boy's HeartHOME MADE Family
HOME MADE Kazoku is a hip-hop group that delivers heartfelt songs themed around life and love.
Among their tracks, the anime song that brings you back to childhood is 2005’s “Shōnen Heart.” It was used as the second opening theme for the sci-fi robot anime Eureka Seven.
The heroic lyrics, which match the boy-meets-girl story, strike a chord.
Set to a lively rhythm, their refreshing flow resonates throughout the song.
Take in its passionate message that helps you reclaim a straightforward, earnest heart.
Take back the love!!Crystal King
When it comes to the opening theme of the anime Fist of the North Star, which gained popularity for its intense depictions and heart-stirring story, it has to be Crystal King’s “Ai o Torimodose!!,” released in 1984.
Although it ranked only 53rd on the Oricon charts, it’s widely known and stands alongside “Daitokai” as one of Crystal King’s signature songs.
Remarkably, it even achieved million-seller status in 2009, 25 years after its release.
Masayuki Tanaka’s piercing high tones are also a major draw—you can’t help but be captivated.
A Cruel Angel's ThesisYoko Takahashi
The song everyone knows as the opening theme of the TV anime Neon Genesis Evangelion is A Cruel Angel’s Thesis.
It’s singer Yoko Takahashi’s 11th single, released on October 25, 1995.
Hugely popular as an anime song, it’s also a staple at karaoke.
Its philosophical lyrics, which capture Evangelion’s worldview, and Takahashi’s clear, powerful vocals make for a moving number.
If you haven’t heard it yet, definitely give it a listen.
[Nostalgic Songs] A collection of nostalgic anime songs that resonate with those born in the Showa and Heisei eras (21–30)
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.