[Classic Hits] Popular Anime Songs Representing the Showa Era. Also Introducing Recommended Anime Songs!
There are so many masterpieces from the Showa-era anime that have gone down in history, aren’t there?
Even if you don’t remember the plots that well, many people can still sing the theme songs—or the moment they hear a song, the anime comes rushing back.
Here, we’re showcasing a generous selection, including anime songs that were big hits in the Showa period and tracks that are being reappraised today through the lens of city pop’s popularity.
When you get together with friends from the same generation who watched those shows, a karaoke session with a “Showa anime songs only” rule is sure to be a blast.
And of course, even if you don’t know much about anime from that era but are curious, please give these songs a listen!
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Classic Hits: Popular Anime Songs Representing the Showa Era. Also Featuring Recommended Anime Songs! (21–30)
I’m Doraemon.Ooyama Nobuyo
Doraemon is a beloved national anime that has been cherished for a very long time.
It’s no exaggeration to say that Doraemon has become a globally loved character, not just in Japan but overseas as well.
While Wasabi Mizuta, the second-generation voice actor for Doraemon, has become well established in the role, for those of the Showa generation, Nobuyo Oyama’s voice still feels most familiar.
The song ‘Boku Doraemon’ was released in 1979 (Showa 54) and served as the theme song for the TV anime.
There’s also a version sung by the second-generation voice actor, Wasabi Mizuta, so it’s fun to listen and compare the two.
Yawning GirlHorie Mitsuko
Here is a song about Akubi-chan, a character from the anime Hakushon Daimaō.
Released in 1969, it shows the influence of Black music of the time alongside the theme song.
It was recorded by Mitsuko Horie—one of the so-called Four Queens of Anisong—when she was 12.
As expected of the Queen of Anisong, her singing has a commanding presence.
It was also released as a cheap, thin, colored disc known as a sonosheet back then, in addition to regular records.
It must have been popular with children.
Classic Hits: Popular Anime Songs Representing the Showa Era. Also Introducing Recommended Anime Songs! (31–40)
Attack No. 1Ōsugi Kumiko
Released in the early 1970s, this song captured the hearts of many with Kumiko Ōsugi’s vocals.
As the theme for an anime depicting the struggles of a women’s volleyball player, it brilliantly expresses the passion and hardships of young people devoted to sports.
Its upbeat, pop-infused sound strongly reflects the hallmarks of girls’ anime theme songs of the time and has an energizing effect on listeners.
Widely known as one of Ōsugi’s signature works, it played an important role in her musical career.
The song is also highly regarded for championing women’s achievements, and it remains popular today, including at karaoke.
It’s a perfect pick for those nostalgic for their youth, as well as for moments when you want to encourage someone who’s giving their all.
Astro BoyKamitakada Shonen Gasshodan
When it comes to anime that represent the Showa era, many people probably think of this song.
The pure voices of the Kamitakada Boys’ Choir beautifully capture Astro Boy’s scientific strength and gentle heart.
Debuting in 1963 as the theme song for the TV anime, it quickly won the hearts of children.
The song describes Astro Boy flying through the sky toward the stars and protecting people on street corners and beneath the sea.
It’s a track that evokes fond nostalgia while inspiring dreams of science and a spirit of justice.
Highly recommended not only for anime fans, but also for adults looking to reminisce about the past.
Gutsy FrogIshikawa Susumu
“The Gutsy Frog” was a TV anime that aired for about two years starting in 1972 (Showa 47).
The song with the same title served as its opening theme.
A new series, “New Gutsy Frog,” aired in 1981, and more recently, a live-action drama adaptation was broadcast in 2015.
In the TV drama version, the same opening theme was used in a lavish arrangement where the entire cast sang together.
Whether you watched it in real time or not, this is a famous anime song that many people are likely to know.
To the Rock RiverŌsugi Kumiko
The 1977 anime theme song sung by Kumiko Osugi, known for her clear and beautiful voice, is a classic that refreshingly conveys a heartwarming tale of friendship.
Set against lush natural scenery, the encounters and adventures of a boy and a raccoon are portrayed alongside a rich melody.
The gentle lyrics, filled with gratitude to God and pure friendship, resonate deeply with listeners.
Released as a single by Nippon Columbia, the song won the Golden Hit Award in 1977 and ranked second in Oricon’s year-end chart (TV Anime/Children’s Songs category) the same year.
Beloved across generations, this is a warmly recommended track that families can enjoy together.
Orphan Hachishimazaki yuri
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.