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

Dan Dan Kokoro HikaretekuFIELD OF VIEW

[Duet with the original artist] DAN DAN Kokoro Hikareteku / FIELD OF VIEW’s Yuya Asaoka & CHIAKI

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.

HEART OF SWORD ~Before Dawn~T.M.Revolution

T.M.Revolution – HEART OF SWORD ~Before Dawn~ | Official Music Video

This is a gem of a song, known as the ending theme of the anime Rurouni Kenshin, that powerfully sings of loneliness and hope.

Set in the stillness before dawn, its strong will to believe in one’s own path and move forward is expressed through a forceful melody.

Its striking, tempestuous sound and emotionally rich vocals resonate together, piercing deeply into the listener’s heart.

Released as T.M.Revolution’s third single in November 1996, it was used twice as an ending theme during the anime’s broadcast run.

It has been included on numerous acclaimed records, such as the albums “restoration LEVEL→3” and “B★E★S★T.” When you feel lost in life or are facing an important decision, listening to this song is sure to give you the courage to take a new step forward.

See, spring has come.Ushirogami Hikaretai

See, spring has come.

A refreshing song celebrating the arrival of spring has been delivered by Ushirogami Hikaretai.

It expresses the exhilaration and anticipation that come with the changing seasons, set to a bright and lively melody.

The lyrics leave a strong impression with their gentle sensitivity to the love and happiness overflowing in nature—spring’s buoyant warmth, the murmur of a brook, and the hope of new romance.

The track was used as the opening theme for the Fuji TV anime “Tsuideni Tonchinkan,” and after its release in February 1988, it reached No.

6 on the Oricon chart.

It’s a song you’ll want to hear at the start of a new season, a work that lingers in the heart along with fond memories.

Come here, Perman.Katsue Miwa

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.

Rondo - revolutionMasami Okui

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.

Saint Seiya Myth ~Soldier Dream~Hironobu Kageyama & 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.

Blue waterMiho Morikawa

Blue Water (21st century ver.)

This is a masterpiece whose crystal-clear, refreshing melody and hope-filled lyrics resonate deeply.

It beautifully expresses a profound bond with a loved one, the courage to keep moving forward, and the excitement for a future brimming with limitless possibilities.

Miho Morikawa’s powerful, expansive vocals further enhance the song’s appeal.

Released in April 1990, it was selected as the opening theme for the NHK anime “Nadia: The Secret of Blue Water,” becoming a popular hit that stayed on the Oricon charts for 11 consecutive weeks.

Also included on the albums “VOICES” and “GOLDEN☆BEST Miho Morikawa,” this song is perfect for adding color to everyday life or giving yourself a boost when you need it.