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 (21–30)
My friendZARD
A signature number by ZARD, famously known as the ending theme of the TV anime SLAM DUNK.
The lyrics woven by Izumi Sakai carry both the warmth of watching over “you” who keeps running straight ahead and the poignancy of a relationship that might one day change—each listen is enough to make your heart swell.
Released in January 1996 as their 17th single and opening the album TODAY IS ANOTHER DAY, this song became a million seller and is etched in the hearts of many fans.
It’s a perfect cheer song for those pivotal moments of youth—like retiring from a club activity or at a graduation ceremony.
Why not sing it at karaoke with friends you haven’t seen in a while, reminiscing about those days? Its unfading melody will surely bring those feelings from back then vividly back to life.
Unforgettable School DaysGurēto Chikin Pawāzu
While performing as a comedy duo, Great Chicken Powers gained idol-like popularity thanks to their handsome looks.
Their second single, “Wasurenai School Days,” released in 1995, is a moving graduation song that stands in contrast to the comedic side they show in their sketches.
Written and composed by the members themselves, the song portrays in down-to-earth words the loneliness that follows the graduation ceremony and the anxiety of being separated from someone you like.
It was a hit at the time of release, and many people still remember it as a seasonal classic.
It’s a perfect ballad for that sentimental time when familiar scenery looks just a little different.
Let its melody, filled with the brilliance and bittersweetness of youth, lead you to look back on memories with your dear friends.
Where Smiles GoDREAMS COME TRUE
On graduation day, we want to say goodbye with a smile, but that feeling of loneliness inevitably wells up, doesn’t it? This song, gently accompanying those wavering emotions, was released by DREAMS COME TRUE in February 1990.
Beloved as the theme song for the TBS drama “Sotsugyo” (“Graduation”), it also ranked high on the charts.
Miwa Yoshida’s lyrics blend bravado with heartache, tightening listeners’ chests with their poignancy.
It’s also cherished by fans as the first single for which Masato Nakamura composed the music.
A different version is included on the album “WONDER 3.” It’s the perfect track to play on your way home as you reluctantly part with friends, or whenever you feel like looking back on your youth.
Even after graduating, even after saying goodbye, even from afarMariko Nagai
Starting with what seems like a bright anecdote—being the only one grinning widely in a graduation group photo—this song is actually a bittersweet number about a love that was never confessed.
With lyrics penned by Mariko Nagai, it vividly portrays a powerful feeling that doesn’t fade even after graduation and goodbyes, and every listen brings back the sights of those days in sharp detail.
Released in February 1993 as the B-side of a single and later included on the March 1993 album “OPEN ZOO,” it’s a hidden gem.
Why not listen to it when you’re anxious about walking separate paths and possibly never meeting again, yet still want to believe in an unchanging bond? Alongside the sweet-and-sour memories of youth, it will gently warm your heart as you set out on a new journey.
seasonZARD
ZARD is a music unit fronted by vocalist Izumi Sakai.
A song I’d like to highlight as a hidden gem known mainly to devoted fans is “Season.” The reason is that despite never being released as a single, “Season” is the only song of its kind to consistently rank high in fan polls.
Its lyrics portray the feelings of students on the verge of graduation.
Because the song never explicitly defines its characters or situations, it invites wide interpretation, making it easy for anyone to relate.
Give it a listen when you’re feeling lonely or need a boost.
