[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! (41–50)
Come here, Perman.Miwa Katsue
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.
Classic Hits: Popular Anime Songs Representing the Showa Era. Also Introducing Recommended Anime Songs! (51–60)
Song of Hakushon Daimaoshimazaki yuri
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.
Let’s do it with a bang! The Way of BaseballChiba Yumi, Yangu Furesshu, Koorogi ’73
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.
Brave RaideenShimon Masato
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.
Oak Wood MocOnogi Kumiko
With a bright, lively rhythm and a catchy, child-friendly melody, this heartwarming song conveys the importance of kindness and human bonds.
It expresses the protagonist’s innocence and positive spirit through simple yet memorable phrases, resulting in a familiar tune that anyone can hum along to.
The clear, gentle vocals of Kumiko Onogi and the Columbia Yurikago Kai softly deliver the story’s message.
Released in January 1972, it was used as the opening theme for an anime produced by Tatsunoko Production.
It has continued to be loved for many years and cherished by people of all ages.
It’s a nostalgic track that can be enjoyed with family and friends.
Fly! Grendizersasaki isao
This is a heroic anthem characterized by a powerful melody and a message that resonates with the heart.
Depicting the exploits of a protagonist and a robot who protect the peace of Earth, the work’s gallant tone vividly expresses a deep appreciation for the planet’s beauty and the preciousness of peace.
Isao Sasaki’s passionate vocals convey courage and hope in the face of invaders from space.
Released in 1975, it was used as the opening theme for the TV anime UFO Robo Grendizer, which aired from that same year through 1977.
It was re-released in June 1998.
Highly recommended for those who want to thrill to the tale of a hero fighting for peace or draw energy from a fiery sense of justice.
Hello, Sadnesssaitou yuki
Here’s the song that was released in 1986 as the first opening theme for the anime Maison Ikkoku.
It was also used in a Shiseido commercial, so some of you might recognize the chorus.
The arrangement features a sound that epitomizes late-’80s pop, giving it a nostalgic feel.
Yuki Saito’s slightly lisping vocal delivery is also very charming.
Incidentally, the composer is none other than Koji Tamaki.
It truly was a golden era, in the best sense.
