A graduation song released in the 1990s. A memorable classic that accompanies the graduation season.
On your graduation day, was there a song you softly hummed while reluctantly saying goodbye to your friends?The 1990s were the era when CDs sold the most in Japan and the concept of J-POP truly took shape, giving rise to countless classic hits that everyone knew.
Naturally, many iconic graduation songs were born as well, leaving a deep impression on the students of that time.From timeless graduation staples that evoke the atmosphere of those days, to songs perfect for the graduation season, and even hidden gems known only to a few, this article delivers a rich selection of graduation songs released in the 1990s.Whether you’re embarking on a new chapter with the arrival of spring, feeling a sudden urge to look back on your youth, or part of a younger generation curious about ’90s music, be sure to check it out!
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Graduation songs released in the 1990s: memorable classics that accompany the graduation season (11–20)
To the futureKiroro
Kiroro, famous as a ’90s artist known for great lyrics, has a perfect song for graduation season: “Mirai e” (“To the Future”).
As the title suggests, it’s an uplifting anthem that gives a gentle push to those taking a step toward the future.
The sound blends the lead melody sung by vocalist Chiharu Tamashiro with Ayano Kinjo’s piano-backed harmonies, evoking an organic ’90s vibe.
Why not take a break from today’s pop music, which often leans digital, and let yourself sink into a more natural sound for a change?
my graduationSPEED
SPEED’s “my graduation” is one of the beloved classics among 1990s graduation songs.
Its lyrics portray a heartbreak that looks back on memories and wishes to “meet again someday,” overlapping naturally with the scenes of graduation.
Their clear, translucent vocals ride on a fresh melody that resonates deeply with many listeners.
Though it’s a heartbreak song, the title “my graduation” has made it a cherished graduation tune—perfect for anyone seeking a slightly different kind of graduation song.
A graduation song, a song of friends.19
Among the graduation songs that colored the J-Pop scene of the ’90s, “Sotsugyō no Uta, Tomodachi no Uta” by 19 stands out with a special presence.
The warmth of the lyrics penned by 326 delicately portrays friendship, parting, and the steps toward a new future, resonating deeply with listeners.
While reflecting on days gone by, its message that cheers on the days to come retains an unfading appeal in any era.
It is a moving work that one would want to dedicate to everyone facing graduation.
GraduationWatanabe Misato
This is the song “Sotsugyo” (Graduation) by Misato Watanabe, known for “My Revolution.” I’d always thought of her as a singer of relentlessly bright songs, but that image crumbled when I heard this track.
The unsettling string arrangement beautifully highlights Watanabe’s powerful, straightforward vocals.
It’s a song that makes me admire the breadth of her expressive range.
Snow in MarchMakihara Noriyuki
Singer-songwriter Noriyuki Makihara, who released numerous hit songs in the 1990s and has been actively writing songs for other artists, created “Snow in March,” a track from his second album, Who Do You Share a Happy Yawn With? Its delicate sound, featuring piano and acoustic guitar, really lingers in the ears.
The lyrics evoke the scene of lingering spring snow while conveying that time keeps moving forward without waiting—something that may resonate especially with those who cherished their student days.
With a voice that carries a touch of melancholy, it’s a sentimental graduation song that strikes the heart.
