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 (31–40)
BELIEVESugimoto Ryuichi
This song was created in 1998 as the ending theme for NHK’s “Ikimono Chikyū Kikō” (A Journey of Life on Earth).
Its beautiful piano melody and hope-filled lyrics have long been cherished at graduation ceremonies and school events.
Celebrating the importance of friendship and mutual support, it gives people the strength to face forward, believing they can overcome any hardship.
Many of you may have actually sung it at your graduation.
In 2017, it was also featured in a commercial encouraging exam-takers, cementing its status as a classic beloved across generations.
It’s a wonderful song that gently supports not only those graduating, but everyone taking a new step forward.
Dear My FriendsHi-STANDARD
Hi-STANDARD, a Japanese punk band that gained huge popularity in the ’90s.
Their song “Dear My Friends” is a classic that pairs a straightforward Hi-STANDARD-style beat with heartfelt feelings for dear friends.
In particular, lyrics like “It feels so good to be alive” and “I’m going to do things my own way” help turn the confusion of graduation into a positive outlook—that’s the charm of this track.
The lyrics are written in simple English, so singing along to lift your spirits is a great idea!
Tomorrow, when spring comesMatsu Takako
This is the memorable debut single of Takako Matsu, who had already earned high acclaim as an actress.
Released in March 1997, it was also featured in an NTT commercial and became a hit, selling about 500,000 copies.
The warm, springlike melody—like sunlight filtering through the trees—matches perfectly with her clear, translucent voice.
The lyrics depict bittersweet memories of days gone by and a poignant longing for someone dear.
The scenes from those days, when you simply watched “you” devoted to your passion, come vividly to mind.
Listening to it in the season when farewells and new encounters intersect—graduations, new beginnings—might fill your heart with both nostalgia and hope for the future.
Blown by the windElefanto Kashimashi
Elephant Kashimashi is a rock band fronted by vocalist Hiroji Miyamoto.
Many fans went wild for them in the ’90s and now support them together with their kids.
One of their songs about parting with a friend is “Kaze ni Fukarete” (Blown by the Wind).
Its passionate lyrics about unchanging friendship and its dry, lean sound never fail to tug at the heartstrings.
The song also portrays a man who can’t be honest with his feelings, capturing the wavering of his heart in a realistic way.
Those who tend to act a bit distant in everyday life may find it especially relatable.
To the new personKaientai
Kaientai is a three-member folk group led by actor Tetsuya Takeda.
Known for hits like “Okuru Kotoba,” their song “Atarashii Hito e” is a hidden gem from the ’90s.
Its warm, folk-infused melody gently comforts the anxieties that come with graduation season.
Upbeat, hype-building anthems are great, but as a graduation song, I highly recommend a track like this—an encouraging tune that gradually fills you with courage as you listen.