Exploring the World of Ultraman: What is the English Theme Song?
If you’re a fan of Japanese sci-fi shows, then you’ve probably heard of Ultraman. Since its debut in 1966, this iconic TV series has spawned numerous spin-offs, movies, and merchandise. But for non-Japanese speaking viewers, one question may come to mind: what is the English theme song of Ultraman?
The Origins of Ultraman
Before we dive into the theme song, let’s take a quick look at the origins of Ultraman. Created by Eiji Tsuburaya, the legendary special effects director behind Godzilla and other classic kaiju films, Ultraman follows the adventures of a giant alien superhero who defends Earth from various monsters and aliens. The show was an instant hit in Japan and quickly gained a worldwide following.
The Japanese Theme Song
Like most Japanese shows, Ultraman has a catchy opening theme song that sets the tone for each episode. Titled “Ultraman no Uta” (which literally means “Song of Ultraman”), the song was composed by Kunio Miyauchi with lyrics by Hajime Tsuburaya, Eiji Tsuburaya’s son. It features a lively melody and simple lyrics that describe Ultraman’s heroic feats and his mission to protect the world.
The English Theme Song
As for the English theme song, there are actually two different versions. The first one was used in the original American dub of Ultraman, which aired in the late 1960s. This version featured a new set of lyrics that were written by Peter J. Solley and performed by The Surf Mariachis. The lyrics differ significantly from the Japanese version, as they focus more on describing Ultraman’s physical appearance and powers. The chorus goes:
“Ultraman, Ultraman / Here he comes from the sky / Ultraman, Ultraman / Watch our hero fly”
The second English theme song was used in the 2019 Netflix series Ultraman, which is a reboot of the original show. This version was performed by Japanese-American singer-songwriter Alex To and features lyrics that are closer to the Japanese original. The chorus goes:
“Ultraman, we need you now / Standing tall against the power / Ultraman, we’ll never bow / Fighting for humanity hour by hour”
Conclusion
So, there you have it – the English theme songs of Ultraman. Whether you prefer the classic American dub or the modern Netflix version, both songs capture the essence of this beloved superhero show. So next time you watch an episode of Ultraman, sing along to the theme song and join the fight against evil!
