[Nostalgic] Classic and Popular Anime Songs Recommended for People in Their 30s

Hero of the Storm (Hero)oka yuru

Hero of the Storm (Hero)

Yuru Oka’s song “Storm Hero” conveys a fiery spirit driven by courage and justice.

It’s also famous as the opening theme of the anime Brave Express Might Gaine, and the timeless theme of “justice vs.

evil,” beloved by kids back then, remains an unfading memory for those now in their thirties.

Oka’s powerful vocals, which seem to strengthen the heart, reach the listener straight and true.

By all means, revisit the lyrics and immerse yourself in that world once more, with a touch of nostalgia.

ChallengerMatsumoto Rika

Pocket Monsters OP07 / AG OP2 – “Challenger!!” (Creditless w/ Lyrics)

This is the song that was used as the opening theme for the anime Pokémon Advanced Generation from April 2004 through episode 104.

Sung by Rika Matsumoto, who also voices the protagonist Ash (Satoshi), her powerful vocals perfectly herald the start of an adventure.

The lyrics convey a challenger’s spirit—never giving up no matter the hardship and pushing forward to the very end.

It’s a track brimming with positive energy that faces down the wall in front of you without fear.

Incidentally, it’s also included on the acclaimed 2023 release BEST OF BEST OF BEST 1997–2023.

If you listen to it when you’re starting something new, it’s sure to give you a push.

Ready Go!Tamura Naomi

Pokémon OP5 'Ready Go!' Naomi Tamura

This is the opening theme that marked the finale of the original series of the anime Pokémon.

Naomi Tamura’s energetic vocals instantly heighten the sense of anticipation for the grand adventure to come.

You can almost see a hopeful scene of racing across the sunlit earth and heading beyond the rainbow.

It conveys the protagonist’s pure excitement as they step toward new encounters and unseen worlds.

Released as a single in March 2002, the song was used in the anime from Episode 239 through the final episode.

It’s a track that gives you a powerful push when you want to start a new challenge or take that last step toward your dream.

Truly a perfect send-off song for setting out on a journey.

Kerok! MarchKakuda Nobuaki & Ihata Juri

Non-credit opening video of the TV anime Sergeant Keroro: OP theme “Kerok! to March”

This is the first opening theme of the anime Sergeant Keroro, a song that really conveys the show’s atmosphere.

It’s a fun duet featuring the contrasting voices of Shinobu Kandada—active as a karateka and TV personality—and Juri Ihata, who also appears in the series as a voice actor.

Fitting for a story about Sergeant Keroro, an alien plotting to invade Earth, the track stands out with a lively, march-like sound.

The lyrics are another major highlight, blending universally relatable “everyday” moments with phrases that would normally be impossible, vividly evoking a storyline where the ordinary and the extraordinary intertwine.

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Farewellkinmokusei

Osmanthus fragrans 'Farewell'

Kinmokusei is a band that broke out with Futari no Akaboshi and even appeared on NHK’s Kōhaku Uta Gassen.

Released as their fourth single, this song was used as the opening theme for the anime Atashin’chi.

Its simple melody and memorable lyrics are captivating, depicting everyday farewells and reunions and the shifting emotions they bring.

It’s a track that conveys a positive message about facing forward and living on.

It’s also included on the albums Ongaku wa Subarashii Mono da and Best Condition: kinmokusei single collection, and has become one of their signature songs.

Loosey-goosey DE-O!nohara shinnosuke

Yuru-yuru DE-O!

It’s such a fun, upbeat rap-style track sung by Shin-chan, isn’t it? The theme is Shin-chan’s carefree, laid-back everyday life, and just listening to it lifts your spirits and naturally brings a smile to your face.

With the director himself writing the lyrics, the song is packed with Shin-chan’s unhurried, slightly precocious charm.

It was released as a single in January 2005, and it served as the opening theme for the TV anime for about five years starting in October 2004.

It’s also included on the album “Crayon Shin-chan Theme Song CD: Kikanakya Son, Song, Song for You.” It’s a perfect pick-me-up when you need a boost.

Genesis of AquarionAKINO from bless4

AKINO “Sousei no Aquarion” Music Video

The theme song of “Genesis of Aquarion” is a masterpiece that blends AKINO’s clear vocals with Yoko Kanno’s grand sound! No matter how many times I listen, the exhilarating melody and the expansive, larger-than-life lyrics leave a strong impression, and I think it’s a classic that perfectly ties into the anime’s world.

Released in April 2005 and used as the anime’s opening theme, it became a big hit.

Even just listening to the song lets you feel the show’s exciting atmosphere.

It’s a track that fires you up every time you hear it, so give it a listen when you’re taking on something new or chasing your dreams!