Friendship songs to listen to in April: a curated selection of tracks themed around new encounters!

Happinessarashi

ARASHI – Happiness [Official Music Video]

A song packed with a lively rhythm and a positive message! Its melody naturally lifts the listener’s spirits, and the powerful lyrics give a push toward stepping into the future.

Released in 2007, it also made waves as the theme song for the drama “Yamada Taro Monogatari.” It’s a live-show staple, and the sight of the entire venue coming together in excitement is truly spectacular.

As spring brings new beginnings, singing it at karaoke is sure to spread positive energy! Sing it with friends and savor the best moments together.

Sakura, Bloom!arashi

Sakura, Bloom!

This is a masterpiece in which gem-like messages that seep into the heart on a gentle spring breeze are expressed through Arashi’s magnificent vocals and harmonies.

Through the beauty and transience of cherry blossoms, it gently sings of life’s changes and renewal, and hope for the future.

Filled with feelings that resonate with the arrival of spring—moving forward as if guided by the wind, understanding that deepens over time, and challenges toward a new self—it was released in February 2015 and chosen as the theme song for the TBS drama “Ouroboros: This Love Is, Indeed, Justice.” It is also included on the album “Japonism,” and you can see it performed in the live video work “ARASHI BLAST in Miyagi.” With a refreshing vibe perfect for a spring drive and lyrics that give you the courage to move forward, it’s a song I wholeheartedly recommend for the start of a new season.

Sakura RabbitKawasaki Takaya

Takanori Kawasaki - Sakura Usagi [OFFICIAL MUSIC VIDEO]

Here is a graduation song filled with bittersweet feelings, bathed in the gentle light of spring.

The melody woven by Takaya Kawasaki delicately conveys, with his tender vocals, the emotions of a protagonist who cannot express their feelings in a classroom where cherry blossoms dance in March.

The soft metaphor of likening a boy who can’t be honest about his feelings to a rabbit is especially striking.

Released in January 2021, this piece is also included on the album “Nukumori,” and it has soothed the hearts of many.

It’s a song you’ll want to play while driving through the city, carried by a fresh spring breeze.

Perfect for the graduation season, for moments of reminiscing about youth, or for warming thoughts of someone dear.

Beautiful DaysHirai Dai

Dai Hirai / Beautiful Days (Lyric Video)

A gentle anthem that accompanies the making of precious adolescent memories.

Dai Hirai’s acoustic melodies and warm vocals give a push to young people taking their first steps toward the future.

Riding on a calm yet powerful sound, it sings of hope in the darkness, the value of seemingly uneventful days, and the anticipation of a new departure.

Since its release in March 2025, the piece has drawn attention with a confirmed tie-in to an animated production.

The album “Life is Beautiful,” which also features a collaboration with Taro Hakase, reached No.

1 overall on iTunes.

It’s a song that supports students preparing and practicing for their school festivals, resonating with their hearts and helping them reaffirm the bonds with their cherished friends.

DREAMERIkuta Rira

DREAMER

This heartwarming song, set to a gentle acoustic tone, sings of a deep love for music and a passionate pursuit of dreams.

In Rira Ikuta’s true-to-herself words, it conveys a strong will to keep singing in her own way and gratitude toward the important people who support her.

Brimming with hope that shines like a starry sky, this work was included on the single “Hyakka Ryouran,” released in March 2025.

It’s a track you’ll want to listen to with friends while preparing for a school or cultural festival, as you cheer on each other’s dreams.

Tomorrow, when spring comesMatsu Takako

Tomorrow, When Spring Comes – Takako Matsu (Full)

A memorable J-pop song with a breezy pop feel and wistful melody, it gently encourages those stepping into a new life with the arrival of spring.

It conveys feelings for “you,” who are devoted to baseball, by entrusting them to the arc of a white ball, tenderly enveloping precious memories and farewells.

Takako Matsu’s clear, translucent voice soothes the anxieties deep within the heart.

Released as her debut single in March 1997, it reached No.

8 on the Oricon chart and was also featured in an NTT commercial.

A decade later, a version with new lyrics was released, adding greater depth to the work.

It’s a song we especially recommend to anyone standing at a crossroads in life or about to take a new step forward.

GraduaterShiina Hekiru

Graduater

Known for its powerful vocals and uplifting message that champions youth, this is a must-have fan favorite at Hekiru Shiina’s live shows.

It vividly portrays the protagonist’s feelings as they cherish bonds with friends and companions while stepping forward toward their own future.

Even when faced with setbacks and doubts, the unwavering will to keep looking ahead and fighting on resonates deeply, carried by a passionate melody.

Since its release in January 1998, it has been widely supported by fans and was included on the album “Baby Blue Eyes.” The guitar work featuring DAITA from SIAM SHADE further enhances the song’s appeal.

It’s a highly recommended track for anyone about to take a new step or for those who want to cheer on someone striving toward their dreams.