Lovely anime song

[Classic Hits] Popular Anime Songs Representing the Showa Era. Also Introducing Recommended Anime Songs!

music writerKOH-1
Started working as a music writer as a side job while employed at a record shop, and for over 18 years I’ve contributed to music magazines, disc guide books, mooks, and web media. As a writer my main field is Western music, but as a listener for over 35 years, I always try to keep my curiosity alive with the motto “I like what I like.” I have experience playing in bands, where I was a bassist who handled songwriting and composition. Instruments I’ve played include bass, guitar, and piano. I began studying English in my mid-40s and continue to do so today.

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!

Classic Hits: Popular Anime Songs Representing the Showa Era. Also Introducing Recommended Anime Songs! (51–60)

Tetsujin 28-go

Tetsujin 28-goDyūku Eisesu

Tetsujin 28-go OP

Tetsujin 28-goDyūku Eisesu

Here is a classic anime song that represents the Showa era.

Released in 1963 as the theme song for the anime Tetsujin 28-go, this track—sung by Duke Aces with a powerful melody and memorable lyrics—has been loved by generations, from children to adults.

Through the dual nature of Tetsujin 28-go as both a “champion of justice” and a “pawn of evil,” it expresses universal themes such as how technology is used and human responsibility.

Also included on the album CM WORKS, the song carries the atmosphere of the Showa period while presenting profound questions relevant to modern society.

It’s a recommended listen not only for anime fans but also for anyone seeking a sense of Showa-era nostalgia.

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Ken the Wolf Boy

Theme of Ken the Wolf Boybikutā shōnen gasshōdan

Wolf Boy Ken [OP]

Theme of Ken the Wolf Boybikutā shōnen gasshōdan

In 1963, a song that stirred a fiery sense of adventure was born, sung by the Victor Boys’ Choir.

As the theme song of the anime Wolf Boy Ken, it captured children’s hearts.

With an expressive melody and harmonies, it portrays the story of a boy set in the jungle.

From its opening “Wao, wao,” evoking a wolf’s howl, it draws listeners into the world of the great outdoors.

Celebrating courage, friendship, and harmony with nature, this Showa-era classic still lingers in many people’s hearts.

It’s the perfect track for livening up a karaoke night or indulging in a wave of nostalgia.

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In conclusion

Of course, people of that generation, but even those born after the 1990s, have probably heard many Showa-era anime songs somewhere.

As mentioned at the beginning, thanks to the city pop boom, many masterpieces have also drawn attention from overseas music fans.

If you’re interested, definitely dive deeper and explore them!