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

Sugar Song and Bitter StepUNISON SQUARE GARDEN

UNISON SQUARE GARDEN “Sugar Song and Bitter Step” MV

A song that sings about the contradictions of modern society and the joys and pains of everyday life was released by UNISON SQUARE GARDEN in May 2015.

It portrays people living in a chaotic world with catchy, pop melodies and striking lyrics.

Packed with deeper themes—such as the discomfort hidden in daily life, the power of music, and the balance between individuality and society—the song’s worldview contrasts appealingly with its up-tempo sound.

Written as the ending theme for the TV anime Blood Blockade Battlefront, it gained popularity alongside the ending visuals featuring the characters dancing.

It has become a cross-generational favorite, ranking high in JOYSOUND’s decade-based karaoke rankings in 2018.

Touch and Go!!Hayashibara Megumi

Blue Seed Ending (Touch and Go!!)

BLUE SEED is a manga by Yuzo Takada, and a TV anime adaptation aired from October 1994 to March 1995.

The story follows the protagonist, Momiji Fujimiya, as she battles monsters known as Aragami.

Megumi Hayashibara, who played Momiji, also performed the ending theme, “Touch and Go!!”

The Story You Don’t Knowsupercell

The Story You Don’t Know – supercell

This song by supercell is a captivating love song that portrays a poignant, unrequited love.

A tale of impossible love and a love triangle unfolds against the backdrop of a summer night sky.

The protagonist’s feelings are mirrored in the stars, and the lyrics resonate like a snapshot of youth.

Released in August 2009, it was also used as the ending theme for the anime Bakemonogatari.

It captured many hearts, ranking within the top 20 of the Oricon singles chart for over two months.

It’s a track you’ll want to listen to while gazing up at the summer night sky—a heartwarming song that gently accompanies those in love.

Dang Dang is on my mind.Nakamura Yuma

Oishinbo Late-Period OP 'Dang Dang Kininaru' Full Version

This is the opening theme of the anime Oishinbo, which sparked Japan’s gourmet boom.

Incidentally, the coupling track LINE was also used as the anime’s ending theme.

It’s a song with a sound characteristic of the peak of the bubble economy—one that makes your body move naturally.

expand_lessRaise the rankingexpand_morelower

SAKI

Report a problem

D-tecnoLifeUVERworld

UVERworld　『D-tecnoLife』

“D-tecnoLife” is UVERworld’s debut single, released in 2005.

The song, which also served as the opening theme for the anime BLEACH, captivated many listeners with its emotional lyrics and positive message.

Set to a driving, high-energy sound, the lyrics convey a strong resolve to face life’s hardships, resonating deeply with the listener.

It’s a track that gives you courage and makes you feel ready to keep going—a song you’ll want to hear when you’re struggling or feeling troubled.

GatherwayMiura Hidemi

Brave Exkaiser by Hidemii Miura

The first installment of Sunrise’s Brave series, created with children as the main target audience, is Brave Exkaiser.

Many people likely looked forward to watching it when they were young.

The opening theme is Gatherway, sung by Hidemi Miura.

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.