Theme songs from morning dramas: The historical main themes of NHK’s Morning Drama Series
NHK’s morning drama series—nicknamed “Asadora”—is an essential part of mornings in Japan.
People of all ages watch it, and it always becomes a major talking point.
The theme songs that open each episode and color the drama draw attention alongside the story itself.
In this article, we’ll introduce the history of Asadora theme songs, from past works to the latest series.
You might even find the song that used to be your morning BGM.
Take a look back at the history of Asadora through its music!
- [2000–2009] A roundup of theme songs from popular dramas!
- Theme Songs of NHK Taiga Dramas Through the Years: The Allure of Music That Colors Historical Stories
- Complete List of Ending Themes from “Okaasan to Issho” (All-Time)
- A comprehensive look at all the theme songs from Mezamashi TV and Mezamashi Doyoubi throughout the years!
- Popular love song themes from Monday 9 p.m. dramas. Including the theme song from that smash-hit drama.
- [Nostalgic Songs] A compilation of classic anime themes that hit home for those born in the Showa and Heisei eras
- Theme and insert songs from Japanese films. Masterpieces and popular tracks of Japanese movie music.
- [Fiery Classics] Super Sentai Theme Songs: All-Time Opening & Ending Themes
- The nostalgic atmosphere tugs at your heartstrings. Tear-jerker songs from the Showa era.
- Theme and insert songs from the long-running Monday 9 p.m. dramas: classic hits from popular series and recommended fan favorites
- A big hit with kids! A collection of songs that gets everyone pumped for childcare and recreation
- [2010–2019] A roundup of theme songs from popular dramas
- Songs That Bring Back the Shows: Beloved Drama Theme Songs
[Asadora Theme Songs] Historical Opening Themes of NHK’s Morning Drama Series (31–40)
flareSuperfly
Superfly’s song “Flare” was written as the theme song for the NHK morning drama series “Scarlet,” starring Erika Toda.
It reached No.
2 on the Oricon Singles Chart.
The music video, filmed in stop motion with 1,500 candles, has a fantastical feel.
The title “Flare” carries two meanings: “flame” and “self-expression/talent.” With its upbeat, forward-driving sound, it’s a track that makes you feel happy as you listen.
Nizon—Rare Sky—gasshou
Set in Ishikawa Prefecture’s Noto Peninsula, the drama Mare portrays a protagonist who strives to achieve her dreams while overcoming various trials.
Its theme song is the original choral piece Kizora ~Marezora~.
It’s said that the first verse’s lyrics were written by Tao Tsuchiya, who played the heroine.
The lyrics, which tightly condense the drama’s story, the grand melody, and the many gentle yet powerful voices make it a perfect song for the morning.
Let it energize you and start your day off right.
Upside-Down SkySMAP
Sakasama no Sora is SMAP’s 47th single, released in 2012.
It was used as the theme song for the NHK morning drama series Umechan-sensei, produced as part of the recovery support project following the 2011 Great East Japan Earthquake, and it reached No.
1 on the Oricon Singles Chart.
Like the protagonist—a female doctor who lived through the tumultuous postwar era and was portrayed as a neighborhood physician by Maki Horikita in the drama—it’s an encouraging song for women who keep living strongly even when they feel discouraged.
Young PlazaKuwata Keisuke
“Wakai Hiroba” is a song by Keisuke Kuwata of Southern All Stars, included on his 2017 solo album “Garakuta.” It was provided as the theme song for the NHK morning drama series “Hiyokko” that same year, and it topped the Oricon album and digital charts.
“Wakai Hiroba” features a nostalgic sound reminiscent of Showa-era kayōkyoku, which matches well with the world of “Hiyokko,” set around the time of the 1964 Tokyo Olympics.
Ama-chan Opening ThemeŌtomo Yoshihide
In 2013, the nationally beloved drama Amachan featured actress Non in the lead role.
The phrase “Jejeje!” used by the protagonist, Aki Amano, was even chosen as the Buzzword of the Year that same year.
The story is a coming-of-age tale set in Kita-Sanriku, Iwate Prefecture, following her growth as both an ama diver and an idol.
Whenever Amachan comes up on TV, the song that inevitably plays is the opening theme, Amachan Opening Theme, which many people have probably heard.
It’s a brisk, pop, ska-style track that gives you a boost just by listening.
The instrumentation even includes a percussion instrument called chanchiki, adding to the fun atmosphere.