[Nostalgic] A special feature on legendary anime theme songs: revisiting those classic tracks

Orphan Hachishimazaki yuri

Orphan Hachi

Feelings for a mother and hope are woven through a voice that balances gentleness and strength.

With her clear, translucent vocals, Yuri Shimazaki paints scenes that tenderly envelop the story of a small protagonist’s adventure and growth.

You can’t help but empathize with the figure who continues their journey with love and courage in their heart, making this a heartwarming work that gives you the strength to move forward step by step.

Released as a single by Nippon Columbia in May 1970, it captured the hearts of many viewers as the opening theme for the anime “Mitsubachi Māya no Bōken” (Insect Story: Orphan Hacchi).

In 1974, she also performed the theme for the sequel, successfully enriching the world of the series.

It’s the perfect song for when you need encouragement or want to lift someone’s spirits.

Song of Hakushon Daimaoshimazaki yuri

Song of Hakushon Daimao

Starting with adorable opening sound effects, the friendly lyrics vividly conjure the image of a great demon king emerging from a magic jar.

His character—honest, quick to tears, and full of human warmth—is wonderfully portrayed, making this a heartwarming piece that children and adults alike can enjoy.

Yuri Shimazaki’s bright, soaring vocals further enhance the comedic storytelling atmosphere.

Released by Nippon Columbia in October 1969, it gained popularity as the opening theme for a Fuji TV–broadcast anime airing at the same time.

It’s a perfect track for moments when everyone wants to have fun together—like family time on holidays or children’s events.

The Star of the SeineKoromubia Yurikago-kai

The Star of the Seine / Arène Columbia Yurikago-kai

Set in Paris during the French Revolution, this work, which colors the story of a young girl, is marked by the beautiful vocals of Arène and the Columbia Yurikago-kai.

Carried by a brave yet wistful melody, it conveys the heroine’s steadfast will and solitude as she fights for freedom and love.

French phrases woven throughout further enhance the work’s distinctive world.

The LP record was released by Nippon Columbia in June 1975 and was used as the opening theme for the television anime of the same name.

One month after the anime began airing, Arène visited Japan and held six events mainly in the Kanto region.

With its moving, beautiful melody and crystalline vocals, this is a recommended track for anyone who wants to immerse themselves in the story’s world along with nostalgic memories.

Come here, Perman.Miwa Katsue

Come here, Perman.

A theme song that captured the hearts of children who love anime based on Fujiko F.

Fujio’s works! Its bright, rhythmic melody and sincere lyrics fill you with a warm feeling, as if you can hear a friend calling from far away.

Katsu’e Miwa’s lively vocals gently convey the importance of friendship and helping one another, making it a wonderful track.

The single, released by Nippon Columbia in March 1983, was also used in the 2003 theatrical film, and since 2011 it has been adopted as the approaching-train melody at Noborito Station in Kawasaki.

It’s a song you’ll want to listen to when your heart is tired, when you want to help someone, or when you wish to bask in nostalgic memories.

Let’s do it with a bang! The Way of BaseballChiba Yumi, Yangu Furesshu, Koorogi ’73

Let's do it in one go! The Way of Baseball

A heartwarming classic, brimming with humor and capturing the feelings of those devoted to baseball, was born in September 1977.

The lively back-and-forth by Yumi Chiba, Young Fresh, and Korogi ’73 creates a bright, powerful harmony that brilliantly conveys a burning passion for the sport.

Broadcast as the opening theme for the anime “Ippatsu Kanta-kun,” it was also included on the album “Tatsunoko Pro Daizenshū” in October of the same year.

The protagonist—struggling with the gap between ideals and reality yet refusing to give up on his dreams—leaves a lasting impression.

It’s recommended not only for baseball enthusiasts but also as a motivational song that gently encourages anyone striving toward their goals.

Rondo – revolutionOkui Masami

Masami Okui “Rondo - revolution” | Revolutionary Girl Utena | Opening

Opening with a powerful beat, this song vividly conveys a message of self-transformation and growth, carried by Masami Okui’s resonant vocals.

The protagonist’s strong resolve to overcome a parting with someone dear and carve out their own path is embedded in the memorable melody.

Her commanding voice gives listeners the courage to take that first step forward.

Released in May 1997, the track was used as the opening theme for the TV anime Revolutionary Girl Utena.

It was later included on the album Ma-KING and the acclaimed compilation S-mode #1.

Brimming with hope, this is a dependable song recommended for anyone feeling uncertain or ready to embark on a new beginning.

Brave RaideenShimon Masato

Brave Raideen

Set to a march-like midtempo that lifts the spirit, the song—paired with Masato Shimon’s expansive vocals—feels as if it portrays a radiant guardian of the skies soaring through the light.

Its friendly, accessible melody, beloved by children and adults alike, vividly depicts a righteous hero’s bravery, infused with a sense of duty to protect peace and a steadfast resolve to carry the hopes of the people.

Broadcast as the opening theme for a robot anime that began in April 1975, it earned high acclaim as a masterpiece that perfectly captured the show’s worldview.

In November 1980, a soundtrack album was released by Nippon Columbia, and it continues to captivate many fans.

It’s a track that, when played during your morning commute to work or school, makes you feel like the protagonist yourself and gives you the courage to face a brand-new day.