A lovely graduation song

[Graduation Songs of the 2000s] Japanese Music That Colors the Season of Departure

A Vocaloid producer who is also a music writerAraki Jakkan
I’ve worked in a variety of roles—regardless of pro or amateur settings—including live event PA, cameraman for video and photography, restaurant staff, and logistics center staff. I now spend my days as a part-time writer. I’ve contributed to music and manga websites with feature/review articles, and wrote the liner notes included as a bonus for 1st PLACE Inc.’s “IA SUPER BEST.” As for my music background, I started playing guitar in junior high and focused on band activities during my school years. For over 15 years since then, up to the present, I’ve continued releasing original tracks as a Vocaloid producer. My areas of expertise are Japanese rock, Vocaloid, and manga.
Accompanist / Piano Instructoryuri
Accompanist pianist × piano instructor × web writer. I began piano lessons at age four and, inspired by my piano teacher, decided to pursue music. I went on to specialized music programs in high school and university, where I discovered the appeal of accompanying instrumentalists and singers. Currently, alongside teaching piano, I work mainly in my home region of Aichi as an accompanist for flute, voice, choir, and more. Through lessons, my students often introduce me to trending songs, and my hobby is trying anything on the piano—Japanese and Western pop, commercial jingles, and beyond. Since 2021, I’ve also been active as a web writer, covering music and a variety of other genres.

In this article, we’re spotlighting “graduation songs that were hits in the 2000s.” From singer-songwriters and rock bands to idol groups, we’ve gathered a wide range of tracks.

Graduation is a major milestone in life.

Many songs about graduation express swirling emotions with striking directness, leaving a deep impression on the heart.

Whether you graduated in the 2000s, have experienced various moments of “graduation” or “new departures,” or are about to graduate, be sure to listen and feel the emotions woven into these songs.

[Graduation Songs of the 2000s] Japanese Music Coloring the Season of Departure (81–90)

Tsubasaandāgurafu

Tsubasa

Tsubasaandāgurafu

Tsubasa, released by Under Graph in 2004 as their debut single and signature song, is a graduation anthem that portrays parting from one’s current surroundings and setting off into a new world, packing in all the bittersweet, restless feelings of youth.

For those approaching graduation, there are surely many emotions that are hard to put into words or convey well.

This song will likely stay close to those indescribable feelings.

It’s also well known for featuring Masami Nagasawa in the music video.

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Treasure IslandKobukuro

Treasure Island – Kobukuro (Cover)

Treasure IslandKobukuro

Among Kobukuro’s early songs, “Takarajima” (Treasure Island) enjoys enduring popularity with fans.

It evokes the purity of childhood, when everything looked beautiful and, together, they discovered their very own “treasure island.” As they gradually grow up, graduate, and set off on separate paths, the song encourages taking that first step toward the “treasure island” that surely lies ahead on each of their journeys.

Graduating from familiar places and leaping into new environments—taking on new challenges—takes courage, and this is the song that gives you a gentle push when you need it.

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youthGOING STEADY

youth

youthGOING STEADY

The legendary Japanese punk band GOING STEADY’s final single, “Seishun Jidai” (Youthful Days).

With unadorned lyrics, the song captures a young man’s youth.

At the time, their popularity among young people was tremendous, and their appeal felt like a worldview that had distilled youth itself.

It runs about seven minutes, but if you listen while reflecting on your school days, it flies by in an instant.

It’s a song that brings up a flood of feelings, so be sure to give it a listen during graduation season.

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GRAND FINALEBREAKERZ

GRAND FINALE

GRAND FINALEBREAKERZ

BREAKERZ’s “GRAND FINALE” is a memorable graduation song that was born in 2009.

Their music beautifully captures both the brilliance and the bittersweetness of youth as it approaches the milestone of graduation.

This song in particular is striking for its portrayal of a protagonist on the verge of graduating, looking back on their school days while also trying to make the most of the little time left with friends.

Its catchy, emotionally stirring melody and overall tone truly resonate with listeners.

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DepartureFUNKY MONKEY BABYS

FUNKY MONKEY BABYS “Departure”

DepartureFUNKY MONKEY BABYS

FUNKY MONKEY BABYS, a group that led the J-POP scene in the 2000s.

Their poppy, bright, and catchy songs were loved by many young people at the time.

Many of you probably listened to them a lot during your school days, right? Among their tracks, when it comes to graduation songs, this 2008 release is the one! It’s a song that expresses graduation day as the start of a new journey, filled with a positive message.

The chorus is fresh and uplifting, while the rap parts are light and groovy—packed with all the charm of FanMon!

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