Kinnikuman

Kinnikuman is a Japanese band best known for creating the opening theme for the anime series of the same name. Their song "Zudadan! Kinnikuman" became an instant hit in 1983, perfectly matching the show's energy and turning into one of the most recognizable anime themes. They also recorded other tracks like "Akuma no Mougyuu" and "Honoo no Kinnikuman."

While the existing history mentions an early lineup with Keisuke Kuwata and Tatsuro Yamashita, those details seem questionable given those musicians' established careers elsewhere. What's clearer is that the band's sound mixed rock, pop, and funk elements. They kept recording through the 1980s and 1990s with songs like "Hustle Muscle" and "Kanashimi no BEAR CLAW."

Their association with the anime brought them national attention, though some critics at the time suggested they'd compromised their artistic direction. The band continued performing live regardless. Their catalog remains defined by that energetic 1983 theme more than anything else.