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 (41–50)
Photo of three peopleKiroro
Kiroro is a two-member music unit that captivates a wide range of listeners with soft vocals and piano-centered songs.
“San-nin no Shashin” (“A Photo of the Three of Us”), included as the B-side to their major debut single “Nagai Aida,” is especially memorable for its airy slide-guitar intro.
The lyrics, which reaffirm a bond that won’t change even after graduation, evoke the feeling of a fresh new beginning.
It’s a heartwarming graduation song whose light, breezy ensemble and warm melody gently resonate with the heart.
Graduation songs released in the 1990s: memorable classics that accompany the graduation season (51–60)
Beyond the Night SkySMAP
Yozora no Mukou, which sparked a buzz at the time for featuring lyrics by singer-songwriter Shikao Suga, has remained a beloved classic since its 1998 release.
The song reflects on the protagonist’s thoughts about the past as they look back on it.
When student life ends and we enter society, the drastic change in environment can be disorienting.
We sometimes find ourselves wondering whether, now that we’ve finally reached the age we once imagined for our future selves, we’re actually living the days we had envisioned.
There are times when we need to quietly take stock of our lives on our own.
It’s a song that takes you back to the fresh feelings of your school days.
To tomorrowHirosue Ryōko
It’s a message song that says, “I’m anxious about being on my own, but I’ll hold our memories close and move forward.” It’s a track by Ryoko Hirosue, who is also active as an actress, released in 1999.
The lyrics and music were written by singer-songwriter Mayo Okamoto.
Based on Hirosue’s real experiences, the song’s down-to-earth words, paired with her straightforward vocals, resonate deeply.
It makes you think, “I want to see the friends from back then once more…”
Romantic Flightkome kome CLUB
A Kome Kome Club song marked by an up-tempo rhythm and catchy melody.
Released in April 1990, it was featured in JAL’s Okinawa travel campaign.
Its uplifting, positive feel energizes listeners.
The lyrics poetically depict the growth of love and a free spirit taking flight toward dreams.
With words that make you feel ready to soar, it’s a perfect match for graduation.
Carrying a message about turning dreams and adventures into reality, it’s an ideal track for anyone seeking the courage to leap into a new environment.
ALONEB’z
B’z is a rock band known for hit songs like “ultra soul” and “Giri Giri Chop.” While their intense tracks are popular, they’ve also produced many iconic ballads.
Among them, “ALONE” is a ballad beloved by many fans.
This song resonates with feelings of loneliness in various moments, making it a perfect graduation song as well.
What stands out are Koshi Inaba’s passionate vocals and Tak Matsumoto’s emotional guitar.
The synergy between the two elevates this song into a rousing anthem for new beginnings!
Never ForgetMōningu Musume.
A ballad released in 1999 that captures Morning Musume’s feelings of farewell.
It’s themed around Asuka Fukuda’s graduation.
The poignant melody and heartfelt lyrics leave a strong impression.
Encounters and partings—and a promise not to forget.
Even amid sadness, there’s a comforting warmth that suggests hope.
Written and composed by Tsunku, with arrangement by Takao Konishi, it was included as the coupling track to the single “Memory Seishun no Hikari.” It’s a recommended song for anyone experiencing graduation or goodbyes, or for those who want to etch precious memories into their hearts.
Please give this warm, comforting track a listen.
Just the way you areMatsui Takao
A heartwarming choral piece composed in 1991.
It’s beloved as a song that current students sing to graduating students at elementary and junior high school ceremonies.
Its simple melody and lyrics gently convey the enduring nature of friendship and the importance of respecting individuality, and the warm words are truly moving.
It was included on the 2004 album “Omoide ga Ippai: Tabidachi no Hi ni 3,” and was also used as the ending theme for the film “Gakkō II.” It’s a must-listen not only for students about to graduate, but also for anyone who has experienced parting from someone dear.