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

Sky chord ~To You Who Are Becoming an Adult~Tsuji Shion

Tsuji Shion / Shion Tsuji “Sky Chord ~To You Becoming an Adult~”

This is Shion Tsuji’s second single, released in February 2009, and it was used as an ending theme for the TV anime BLEACH.

The lyrics delicately portray the emotions of wavering between not wanting to become an adult and the reality that you can’t stay a child forever, making it a song that resonates with the complex feelings of those standing at the milestone of graduation.

It’s said to reflect Tsuji’s own resolve after dropping out of high school to pursue music, and the down-to-earth words carried by the melody leave a deep impression on listeners.

The single peaked at No.

44 on the Oricon Weekly Singles Chart and was later included on the album Catch!.

This mid-tempo pop number, blending poignancy with optimism, is perfect for anyone stepping into a new environment, such as further education or starting a job.

It’s a song that accompanies springtime send-offs, evoking both the end and the beginning of youth at the same time.

things that have formShibasaki Kou

Ko Shibasaki – Something That Has Form

This is the theme song of the TBS drama “Crying Out Love, in the Center of the World,” which became a social phenomenon.

Kou Shibasaki’s “Katachi Aru Mono,” for which she wrote the lyrics herself, is a masterpiece that sings of parting from someone dear and the enduring depth of love that never fades.

Though tangible things eventually disappear, the feelings in our hearts live on forever—its message overlaps with the bittersweet emotions felt for friends or lovers who will go their separate ways at graduation.

Even if physical distance grows, we want to believe in the invisible bonds.

This work gently stays by the side of everyone taking a new step forward.

cherry blossomKawaguchi Kyogo

Kyogo Kawaguchi – Sakura

It’s a classic that won the Wired Music Award at the 36th Japan Cable Awards in 2003 and the Gold Prize at the Japan Record Awards the following year.

As one of Kyogo Kawaguchi’s signature works, it’s cherished as a springtime standard.

At first listen, the lyrics seem to depict a breakup between a man and a woman, but it was actually created with the relationship between Doraemon and Nobita in mind.

Its warm message, imbued with the deep bond and mutual care between them, gently resonates with those facing graduation or a new departure.

Have the plums bloomed? Are the cherry blossoms not yet?Metis

Have the plum blossoms bloomed? Are the cherry blossoms not yet, I wonder? Metis Top songs audio

This is singer-songwriter Metis’s major-label debut single, “Has the Plum Blossomed? Is the Cherry Not Yet?” Released in January 2007, it was used as the opening theme for programs including Toyama Television’s “bbt music selection.” The song stands out for its title inspired by an Edo-period short lyric song (端唄, hauta) and its sound that incorporates traditional Japanese elements.

Its lyrics, which long for the arrival of spring, resonate with the feelings of standing at life’s milestones such as entrance exams and graduation.

It’s an uplifting anthem recommended for anyone seeking courage.

No way I’m going to cry.ikimonogakari

Ikimono-gakari “Nakumonka” Music Video

Its heartfelt melody and powerful vocals leave a strong impression.

Released in November 2009 as Ikimonogakari’s 16th single, this song was written as the theme for the film of the same name starring Sadao Abe.

It’s an uplifting anthem that urges you on, telling you, even in tough times, “Don’t cry, don’t give up.” If you want to overcome obstacles or need the courage to take a step into a new environment, give it a listen!