[80s Graduation Songs] Nostalgic Classics & Hits That Have Become Standards
When it comes to graduation songs, choral pieces used to be the standard, but from around the 1970s, pop-style graduation songs began to appear, and by the 1980s, many hit songs related to graduation were being released.
In this article, we’ll introduce standout graduation songs that were released and became popular in the 1980s.
For those who were students during that era, these tracks will feel nostalgic; for those currently in school, they’ll feel fresh and deeply moving.
Enjoy the colorful world of 1980s graduation songs!
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[80s Graduation Songs] Nostalgic Classics and Now-Standard Hits (1–10)
While shining…Tokunaga Hideaki
Released in July 1987, this song became a huge hit as the theme for a Fujicolor commercial featuring Yoko Minamino.
With its beautiful yet slightly wistful melody, it is the masterpiece that catapulted Hideaki Tokunaga to fame.
Its world steeped in the confusion and resolve of taking the first steps into adulthood makes it perfect for graduation season and new beginnings.
The clear, high-toned vocals vividly bring back the glow of youth.
In Nagato City, Yamaguchi Prefecture—hometown of lyricist Akira Otsu—a monument to the song has been erected, and it continues to be deeply cherished by local residents.
It’s a gentle companion not only for those setting out on a spring journey, but also for anyone wishing to reminisce about days gone by.
Linda LindaTHE BLUE HEARTS
THE BLUE HEARTS, the legendary band that shook Japan’s punk rock scene.
Their landmark major-label debut single bursts with a driving beat and lyrics that question true beauty, continuing to stir listeners’ souls.
Released in May 1987, it has a different version included on the album “THE BLUE HEARTS.” Beyond being performed in the film “Linda Linda Linda,” it was also featured in an Airbnb commercial in 2024, proving its timeless appeal.
Many people have probably played it as a staple at school festivals or graduation gigs.
Belt it out like a shout, and the fiery feelings of your youth will come vividly rushing back.
Beyond the GoodbyeYamaguchi Momoe
This is the final single that symbolizes the Showa-era pop scene, released in August 1980 just before Momoe Yamaguchi’s retirement.
Also included on the album “Legend of the Phoenix,” the song—written by Yoko Aki and composed by Ryudo Uzaki—portrays a quiet resolve toward the future that lies beyond parting.
Transcending the bounds of being a theme song for any particular program, it is deeply etched in many people’s memories as the piece that closed her final concert at the Nippon Budokan.
Its lyrics, which accept farewell and strive to move forward, are sure to resonate with those facing graduation or life’s turning points.
A timeless classic passed down through the years, its vocals—imbued with a calm passion—seem to inspire the strength to take a new step forward when you listen.
[80s Graduation Songs] Nostalgic Classics & Now-Standard Hits (11–20)
Graduation -GRADUATION-Kikuchi Momoko
“Graduation -GRADUATION-,” released in 1985 as Momoko Kikuchi’s fourth single.
This isn’t a song about the day of the graduation ceremony; it’s a song about thinking of the man she parted with at the same time as graduation.
To support the way he lives, the woman likely let go of his hand.
They broke up while still in love, and the lingering feelings that won’t fade are portrayed with aching tenderness.
The straightforward sentiment of opening the yearbook every spring brings tears to my eyes.
It’s a recommended song for women who can’t forget a love from their youth.
Romantic Flightkome kome CLUB
Just by listening, many people may feel a sense of liberation, as if a blue sky opens up before their eyes.
Known for their diverse musicality and entertainment-packed performances, Kome Kome Club included this classic on their 1987 album “KOMEGUNY.” It was originally just an album track, but after being used in a JAL commercial in 1990, it became a huge hit and was re-released as a single in April 1990.
Its exhilarating melody and adventurous worldview give you the courage to leap into new places.
When you’re facing a new chapter—graduation, a job transfer, and other turning points in life—this indispensable standard for the season of departures transforms anxiety into an exciting sense of anticipation.
Even though it’s springKashiwabara Yoshie
A graduation song about a bittersweet farewell, written and composed by Miyuki Nakajima and sung by Yoshie Kashiwabara.
Spring usually brings a glamorous image of colorful blossoms and new encounters.
Yet in that joyful season, the parting called “graduation” can suddenly sweep away those happy feelings.
Both the title and the song “Haru na no ni” (“Though It’s Spring”) evoke that shift in the heart from joy to sorrow.
Graduation isn’t a farewell for life, but the song conveys a poignant sadness that somehow makes it feel like a parting for a lifetime.
Don’t give up on your dreamsOkamura Takako
Released in 1987, Takako Okamura’s classic “Yume wo Akiramenaide” (“Don’t Give Up on Your Dreams”).
Takako Okamura made her singing debut with the duo Aming, known for “Matsu Wa,” and began her solo career in 1985.
This song is one of her signature tracks and has been featured in various TV programs and commercials, and even used on Nettou Koshien, making it a beloved song across generations.
Although she originally wrote it as a heartbreak song, it has become cherished as a graduation song and an anthem of encouragement.