Anime songs recommended for people in their 60s: from nostalgic classics to the latest hits

Space Boy SoranKamitakada Boys Choir

Space Boy Solan: Full Version of the Theme Song (1965, Showa 40)

This is a song that evokes nostalgia and a spirit of adventure.

It weaves the story of a boy who came from the distant cosmos, carried by a pure, clear singing voice.

The image of the hero crossing a rainbow with a secret pendant shining on his chest captivates children and won’t let go.

As the theme song for the anime Space Boy Soran, broadcast from 1965 to 1967, it enchanted many viewers.

The music was composed by Taku Izumi, with lyrics by Kazumi Yasui and Taku Izumi.

Singing of the will to protect peace and the importance of friendship, this masterpiece is beloved across generations.

Filled with dreams and hope, its lyrics are sure to give you the courage to face hardship.

Ashita no JoeIsao Ozaki

Isao Bito, 'Ashita no Joe'

This is the song that Isao Ozaki sang in 1970 as the theme for the anime Ashita no Joe.

With lyrics by Shuji Terayama and music by Masao Yagi, the two blend brilliantly to powerfully depict boxer Joe as he faces adversity.

In the style of Showa-era kayōkyoku, it features a dynamic melody tailored to the anime’s theme.

Released by Toshiba Musical Industries, the piece is highly regarded as one of Isao Ozaki’s signature works.

If you’re looking to feel courage and determination to forge your own path, give it a listen.

Go! Tiger MaskHiroshi Nitta, Schoolmates

Go! Tiger Mask by Hiroshi Nitta

Tiger Mask is a pro-wrestling anime about a pure-hearted young man who thrives as a wrestler.

Back then, a real-life Tiger Mask even appeared in professional wrestling, which became a hot topic.

The theme song was very memorable and was popular as a tune everyone knew at the time.

Obake no Q-TaroSusumu Ishikawa

Showa Nostalgia 1965 Obake no Q-taro (Black and White)

If you were a child in the 1960s, you might remember it—the theme song of that famous ghost, a milestone in TV anime.

Susumu Ishikawa’s vocals were truly memorable.

Set to a catchy melody, the lyrics playfully introduce the protagonist’s traits and abilities: the power to fly, the ability to become invisible, and even an adorable fear of dogs.

It’s a fun song that really captured children’s hearts.

Used as the theme for the anime broadcast in 1965, it went on to win the Children’s Song Award at the Japan Record Awards the following year.

It’s a song that stands out in the history of anime music.

Attack No. 1Kumiko Osugi

Amateur Solo Performance: Attack No. 1 by Kumiko Ōsugi

A girls’ version of a sports-spirit anime set in a volleyball club—an anime about girls’ grit.

Just like the lyrics say, once you’re on the court the adrenaline kicks in, so you can handle anything (researched from the volleyball club).

I’d love to see girls’ sports anime make a comeback.

Mazinger ZIchiro Mizuki

Mazinger Z (Mazinger Z)

This is a song that has been etched into the hearts of many fans as the theme for an anime that began airing in 1972.

With its powerful melody and lyrics symbolizing justice and peace, it inspires the courage to face adversity.

For the 2018 film “Mazinger Z: INFINITY,” a newly recorded version was used for the first time in 45 years, giving the piece a fresh appeal.

It’s the perfect track when you want a boost of energy while basking in a sense of nostalgia.

Osomatsu-kun Songsextuplets

Osomatsu-kun [OP-1/OP-2/ED]

This is the theme song from the anime version of one of Fujio Akatsuka’s representative works, Osomatsu-kun, specifically the series that aired starting in 1966.

The fact that the anime has been broadcast multiple times afterward shows its long history and enduring popularity.

The song is performed with the six sextuplet protagonists layering their voices, conveying both their lively everyday life and their strong bond.

A key point is that the song doesn’t only introduce the sextuplets; it also features various other characters, signaling that the work is a bustling, character-rich series.