[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 Introducing Recommended Anime Songs! (31–40)
Osomatsu-kun Song6tsugo (Kato Midori, Yamamoto Keiko, Kitahama Haruko, Azuma Yoshie), Iyami (Kobayashi Kyoji), Chibita (Tanoue Kazue)
Released in 1966, this song became a big hit as the theme for the TV anime Osomatsu-kun.
The six brothers’ lively singing captivated children at the time.
With its distinctive “Sheh!” shout, it’s a fun tune that makes you want to sing along together.
The lyrics reflect the six brothers’ unity and Chibita’s determined spirit, clearly expressing the anime’s world.
Fujio Akatsuka’s unique humor comes through vividly via the characters’ personalities.
This song, steeped in the Showa era vibe, is perfect for livening up a karaoke session, and it’s also recommended for anyone who wants to enjoy nostalgic anime songs.
Fight! Polymersasaki isao
This is a powerful, up-tempo track brimming with the spirit of 1970s hero anime.
A forceful rock-style performance pairs with fiery vocals reminiscent of steel-like strength, brilliantly conveying the protagonist’s courage and power.
The tense developments and high-velocity rhythm further heighten the realism of battle scenes, making it a superb piece.
Released in October 1974 as a tie-in song for the third installment of Tatsunoko Production’s sci-fi action hero TV anime series, it was later used in a live-action film as well.
Showcasing Isao Sasaki’s overwhelming vocal prowess, this track is perfect for moments when you want to stoke your fighting spirit or boost your motivation.
The Star of the SeineKoromubia 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.
Gamba’s SongKawahara Hiromasa
Hiroaki Kawahara delivers a powerful performance of a song that shines in the history of 1970s anime programs.
Riding an energetic melody, it’s a rousing anthem that calls for the courage to set off on an adventure and the importance of bonds with friends.
Its bright, cheerful rhythm conveys the excitement of an adventure that makes anyone’s heart leap.
Released as a single in January 1975, the song was used as the opening theme for a TV anime broadcast from April to September of the same year.
Like the anime’s story, it centers on friendship and bonds, expressing the determination to face hardships and a positive spirit.
It’s a track that gives you strength and courage when you’re feeling down or want to take on something new.
Babel IIMizuki Ichirō
A powerful, valiant hero song of justice! This work depicts a young psychic boy living in the desert’s Tower of Babel and his three servants as they fight to protect peace on Earth.
Sung with heartfelt passion by Ichiro Mizuki and the Columbia Yurikago-kai as the opening theme for the television anime of the same name, which aired from January to September 1973.
The striking lyrics by the pen name “Toei Ni” pair perfectly with Shunsuke Kikuchi’s exhilarating, fast-paced melody.
Proclaiming hope for the future and the bonds of comrades, this piece continues to be loved as a fiery cheer song that resonates with both children and adults.
Classic Hits: Popular Anime Songs Representing the Showa Era. Also Introducing Recommended Anime Songs! (41–50)
Theme of Jungle EmperorHirano Tadahiko
Among the anime songs that defined the Showa era, this piece sung by Tadahiko Hirano holds a special place.
The grand composition by Isao Tomita intertwined with Hirano’s rich baritone creates a breathtaking soundscape.
The lyrics—featuring the jungle king Leo’s roar and his calls to his companions—powerfully convey hope for the future and a yearning for freedom.
Known as the theme song for the 52-episode anime series that aired from October 1965 to September of the following year, the track was notable for its groundbreaking, weighty musical style for the time and earned high acclaim, including multiple awards from the Ministry of Health and Welfare in 1966.
It’s a memorable song for those who watched the anime, and a highly recommended track that lets even newcomers feel the origins of anime music.
Teleportation -Unidentified in Love-Ushio Hashimoto
This song was a major hit as the first opening theme for the anime Esper Mami, based on the original work by Fujiko F.
Fujio, released in 1987.
Created by the duo of lyricist Ikki Matsumoto and composer Keiichi Oku, both leading figures of the time, it’s a brisk pop tune that represents the quintessential 80s anime song.
The lyrics vividly capture the delicate feelings of a teenage girl’s first love, and Ushio Hashimoto’s clear, translucent vocals beautifully express the uncertainty of budding romance.
It remains a beloved track among anime fans and is still frequently sung at karaoke today.
As a youth anthem infused with the charm of the Showa era, it’s highly recommended for fans of nostalgic anime.