Fight songs from the good old days! Showa-era classics you should listen to when starting school
The event of entering a new school is a major crossroads where you step onto a new path in life.
That mix of excitement and anxiety probably never changes, no matter the era.
And the songs that give you a push at times like these will surely give you the courage to take that first step.
So this time, we’re introducing songs released in the Showa era that we’d love you to listen to when starting school.
None of these songs has “entering school” as a clear theme, but they’re all emotional anthems of encouragement—so be sure to check them out!
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An old-school fight song! Showa-era classics you should listen to when you enroll (1–10)
Farewell, youthogura kei
It’s a classic that holds both a powerful resolve and a touch of melancholy—bidding farewell to the shimmering season of youth and choosing to move forward without calling out to the past.
Sung by Kei Ogura, a singer-songwriter who created numerous masterpieces while working as a bank clerk, the song was released in February 1971 as the B-side to his debut single Shiosai no Uta and later included on the album Seishun — Sabaku no Shōnen.
In 1993, a remade version was released as the theme for NTT’s “Telewise” commercial, showing how it has been loved across generations.
This piece, which sings of a clean break from days gone by, is one to hear especially during graduation season as you take a new step forward.
If you overlay it with your younger self, your heart is sure to be stirred.
For me to be myselfOzaki Yutaka
This song powerfully expresses the cries of young hearts.
It explores themes of self-identity and one’s relationship with society.
Included on the album “Seventeen’s Map,” released in December 1983, it has remained one of Mr.
Ozaki’s signature works, beloved by many.
It is recommended for those who need the courage to face society while staying true to themselves—especially students stepping into new environments.
Each listen will remind you of the importance of confronting your true self.
My RevolutionWatanabe Misato
This song, imbued with a powerful, forward-looking message, sings of reevaluating oneself and sparking an inner revolution.
It portrays the feelings of a protagonist who, along with a sense of loneliness, discovers a strength that is uniquely their own, appealing to the importance of the strength to chase dreams and to find a way of life that is true to oneself.
Released in January 1986 and reaching No.
1 on the Oricon charts, it is also known as the theme song for the TBS drama “Sailor-fuku Dori.” When you need courage to dive into a new environment, this is a track that will give you a push.
With Misato Watanabe’s powerful vocals, why not take the first step into a new chapter of your life?
Cheer songs from the good old days! Showa-era classics you should listen to when starting school (11–20)
Galaxy Express 999Godaigo
Created as the theme song for a theatrical animated film, this is a send-off anthem loved across generations.
Its lyrics, woven from both English and Japanese, and the exhilarating arrangement by Mickey Yoshino vividly capture the thrill of stepping into the unknown along with a touch of loneliness.
Released in July 1979, it is one of Godiego’s signature singles and became a record-breaking hit, topping the music show “The Best Ten” for seven consecutive weeks.
The original author, Leiji Matsumoto, reportedly said that the song’s brightness, heard during a sorrowful farewell scene, conveyed the protagonist’s hope for the future.
It’s recommended for everyone standing at a crossroads in life—be it graduation, a job transfer, or any new beginning.
In times of uncertainty, surrender yourself to this powerful melody; it will surely give you the courage to move forward.
Feel the windHamada Shogo
It’s a fast-paced rock number brimming with a sense of speed, raising expectations for a new season along with a refreshing breeze.
It’s sung by singer-songwriter Shogo Hamada, who stays true to his own style while focusing on live performances.
Released as a single in 1979, it was written specifically for a Nissin Cup Noodles commercial and became his first smash hit.
The song is also included on the album “Kimi ga Jinsei no Toki…”.
Its positive message affirming a free way of life and its light, catchy melody strongly encourage young people about to venture into society.
While facing harsh realities, it gently reminds you to relax your shoulders and be yourself.
It’s a classic you should listen to when you need the courage to dive into a new world.
Our JourneyNakamura Masatoshi
This single was released in October 1975 as the theme song for the TV drama “Our Journey,” starring Masatoshi Nakamura, who enjoyed immense popularity from the very start of his acting career.
The lyrics and music were written by Kei Ogura, who likens the long life ahead to a journey, vividly portraying both the hopes of young people pursuing their dreams and the moments of sudden loneliness and melancholy.
Capturing the hearts of the youth of its time, it became a long-running hit, staying on the Oricon charts for 45 weeks.
Nakamura’s warm, enveloping voice seems to gently nudge you forward, even when you’re filled with uncertainty.
It’s an unfading classic that we hope those taking a new step at graduation—and those who wish to reminisce about their youthful days—will listen to.
TRAIN-TRAINTHE BLUE HEARTS
This song, brimming with a sense of speed, weaves in feelings of wanting to escape reality and messages to society.
It depicts a powerful longing for dreams and freedom, along with the pain and inner conflict faced in the process.
It was included on THE BLUE HEARTS’ third album and released in November 1988.
Perfect for those who need the courage to dive into a new environment or who stand at a crossroads in life.
Especially recommended for those about to enter school—an empowering anthem that gives you a strong push forward.