Fight songs from the good old days! Showa-era classics you should listen to when starting school
When you take a step into a new environment, it’s reassuring to have music that gently gives you a push forward.Cheering songs born in the Showa era are filled with a timeless strength and warmth that resonate across generations.Their unadorned lyrics and straightforward melodies gently embrace the mix of anxiety and anticipation that comes with the school entrance season.In this article, we introduce a wide range of Showa masterpieces that are perfect for the milestone of starting school.Whether you want to revel in nostalgia or you’re part of a younger generation discovering Showa classics for the first time, we hope you’ll find a new favorite song!
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Cheer songs from the good old days! Showa-era classics you should listen to when you enroll (21–30)
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.
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.
Cheer songs from the good old days! Showa-era classics you should listen to when starting school (31–40)
Runnerbakufū suranpu
This song beautifully captures the passion and poignancy of youth.
It portrays young people running forward with powerful feelings hidden in their hearts.
The scenes of these youths are delicately depicted, resonating deeply with listeners.
Released in October 1988, it became one of Bakufu Slump’s signature songs.
It was used as an insert song for the TV show “Genius! Takeshi’s Energetic TV” and as a commercial song for Hitachi Video, and has been loved by many.
It’s a track you’ll want to listen to when you need the courage to take a new step or when you want to reminisce about your youth.
While shining…Tokunaga Hideaki
This work is characterized by lyrics that make you feel how every moment of everyday life shines.
It depicts stepping into adulthood and scenes of spending glittering time.
Released in July 1987, it was used as the theme song for Fujifilm’s “Fujicolor” commercials.
It became Hideaki Tokunaga’s first hit to break into the top 10 of the Oricon charts, and it also made its first appearance on TBS’s “The Best Ten” and Nippon TV’s “The Best Ten.” It’s a recommended song for those embarking on a new chapter or striving to move forward while cherishing memories with someone special.
You Are the One Who Rings That BellWada Akiko
This song captivates with its powerful vocals and lyrics that resonate deeply.
Conveying the importance of hope and love, it’s a piece that will encourage anyone embarking on a new beginning.
Released in March 1972, it is known as one of Akiko Wada’s signature songs and won the Best Vocal Performance at the Japan Record Awards that same year.
It was performed six times on NHK’s Kōhaku Uta Gassen, including twice as the Red Team’s finale.
It’s recommended not only for those starting a new chapter in life, but for anyone standing at a crossroads.
Listening to this song will surely give you courage.
HERO (The time to become a hero is now)Kai Band
It’s a song defined by a powerful message and a memorable melody.
It sings of cherishing every moment in life and the determination to walk alongside a loved one.
Its cinematic portrayal of the purity and intensity of love is striking.
Released in December 1978, it topped the Oricon charts and became a major hit.
It was also used in a commercial for Hattori Watch Store and has long been cherished as one of Kai Band’s signature songs.
It’s a track I especially recommend to those about to take a new step or facing a turning point in life.
In conclusion
Showa-era cheer songs carry a timeless power to set hearts ablaze.
Melodies that celebrate new beginnings, lyrics that gently nudge you forward—none of it has faded with time, and even now they strike straight at the listener’s heart.
Add a tune you find yourself humming in unguarded moments to your favorite playlist.
It will surely bring a warm splash of color to your everyday life.