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

Promise of SunflowersHata Motohiro

Motohiro Hata – “Himawari no Yakusoku” Music Video

It’s the theme song for the 3DCG animated film “STAND BY ME Doraemon” and one of Motohiro Hata’s signature tracks.

The song portrays the strong, heartwarming bonds between the characters, expressing that even when they are apart, their hearts remain connected, and its tenderness can easily bring you to tears.

Perfectly harmonizing with the film’s moving story, it captured the hearts of many.

Released in August 2014, it became a major hit, spending a total of seven weeks at No.

1 on Billboard Japan’s Hot Animation chart.

It is also included on the album “Ao no Kokei” (Blue Scenery).

It’s a wonderful song that gently stays by your side when you want to reaffirm the bonds with someone you cherish.

Take It! Sailor FukuKonata Izumi (CV: Aya Hirano), Kagami Hiiragi (CV: Emiri Kato), Tsukasa Hiiragi (CV: Kaori Fukuhara), Miyuki Takara (CV: Aya Endo)

[TV Anime “Lucky☆Star” Creditless OP] “Motteke! Sailor Fuku” | Commemorating the Original Work’s 20th Anniversary Film Concert

An irresistibly catchy denpa song used as the opening theme for the TV anime Lucky Star.

The vocals by the four characters played by Aya Hirano, Emiri Kato, Kaori Fukuhara, and Aya Endo are like a flood of words! The rap-style sections come at you without a moment to breathe, and the lyrics’ world—where trying to parse the meaning can send you into a maze—will have you hooked before you know it.

It’s perfect for times when you just want to let the music carry you without thinking too hard.

dramaticBase Ball Bear

Base Ball Bear – Dramatic

Just by listening, those passionate feelings from back then well up in your chest—this is a fresh, vibrant number by Base Ball Bear.

Released in May 2007 as their fourth single, the song was beloved by many as the opening theme of the anime “Big Windup!” The way it surges from a quiet beginning into a fast, soaring chorus is the very essence of youth’s brilliance.

Like summer heat haze shimmering in the air, its scenes sway atop exhilarating guitar sounds.

Let those memories of being glued to the TV come back, and hum along!

riseOriga

Ghost in the Shell: S.A.C. 2nd GIG OP Non-Credit Footage | “rise”

This track pulls listeners into a near-futuristic world.

Its English vocal delivery, infused with the resonance of Russian, intertwines exquisitely with the grand electro sound.

The message—filled with a powerful will and hope to face hardship and forge the future—truly stirs the heart.

Released in March 2004 as the opening theme for the TV anime Ghost in the Shell: Stand Alone Complex 2nd GIG, it’s included on soundtrack albums such as Ghost in the Shell S.A.C.

2nd GIG O.S.T.

2.

Try playing it on a night when you want to step away from the everyday and immerse yourself in a story, or as background music when you want to boost your concentration.

Broom NebulaRYTHEM

[MV] RYTHEM Houkigumo (Comet Tail)

Many people may have drawn strength from this song.

It’s a track by RYTHEM that was used as the opening theme for the TV anime “Yakitate!! Japan.” With a gentle gaze toward a cherished person beyond the night sky and a warm message encouraging us to believe in our own guiding light beyond our inner anxieties, it quietly stays close to the listener’s heart.

The beautiful harmonies are truly amazing, too! Released in January 2005, the song reached No.

12 on the Oricon weekly chart.

Give it a listen when you feel your heart is a little tired.

Life is Like a BoatRie fu

Rie fu「Life is Like a Boat」Official Music Video

The gentle piano melody and warm acoustic guitar tones seem to softly nestle up to the listener’s heart.

This work by Rie fu is a song that richly expresses the journey of pressing forward with hope alongside someone precious, even as we face rough waves on the voyage called life.

The interplay of English and Japanese in the lyrics is truly beautiful.

Released as a single in September 2004, it captured the hearts of many fans as the very first ending theme for the anime BLEACH.

Give it a listen when you’re feeling a touch nostalgic or when you need the courage to take a new step forward.

Shangri-Laangela

angela「Shangri-La」Music Clip

It’s a bittersweet and emotional number where grand orchestration intertwines with electronic sounds.

Created by angela as the opening theme for the anime “Fafner in the Azure,” this song feels like a soul-stirring cry from characters who pursue a lost utopia, defy a harsh fate, and reach for the future.

You can feel the heartrending earnestness that tightens your chest.

Released in August 2004, it still enjoys enduring popularity among anime fans.

Give it a listen and immerse yourself deeply in the world of the story.