Tear-jerking youth songs: recommended classics and popular tracks

proofflumpool

flumpool “Proof” Music Video (Full Chorus ver.)

This is a heartwarming song themed around parting with friends and embarking on new journeys.

Released in September 2011, it was created as the required piece for the junior high school division of the NHK National School Music Competition that year.

It is also included on flumpool’s third original album, “experience.” The song was performed on the NHK Kouhaku Uta Gassen, where it captured the hearts of many.

With lyrics that sing of hope for the future and bonds between friends, it especially resonates with students.

It is a song that many facing changes such as graduation or advancing to a new school can deeply relate to.

While expressing the loneliness of parting with friends, it also conveys a mutual respect for each other’s dreams, making it a piece that offers comfort to listeners.

Goodbyeofukōsu

Sayonara

This is a pure love ballad that poignantly portrays the end of a romance, released as an Off Course single in December 1979.

With Kazumasa Oda’s warm yet translucent vocals and a heart-stirring melody, the song richly conveys the sorrow of parting.

Its gentle, relatable lyrics—about a first heartbreak or a bittersweet farewell to someone dear—have made it a beloved classic that quietly resonates with listeners.

It was also featured as an insert song in the first season of the TBS drama “Mr.

Kinpachi in Class 3B” and later included on the album “SELECTION 1978-81.” As a song that stands by you through the poignant end of love that comes with winter’s chill, it’s especially recommended for those facing a farewell with someone important.

road; way; path; street; route; Tao (in philosophy)EXILE

EXILE / Michi (Short Ver.)

A smash-hit coming-of-age song by EXILE, an artist whose beautiful high-tone vocals that soothe listeners’ hearts and overwhelming dance performances have continued to be loved across generations.

The track captures the feelings of setting off on one’s own path, making it a tear-jerking youth number.

Loved oneFOMARE

FOMARE “The One I Love” Official Music Video

This is a popular song by FOMARE, known as a leading band in the youth punk scene.

Its poignant lyrics and melody really resonate deeply with listeners.

Released in October 2022, the song was reportedly created as an expression of gratitude toward live houses and supporters.

The lyrics depict bonds with loved ones and the importance of everyday life, and as you listen, you can’t help but feel your heart swell.

It’s especially moving in graduation or retirement scenes, when memories can come flooding back all at once.

This track strongly shakes the hearts of young people and also went viral on TikTok.

It’s a soul-stirring piece that adults nostalgic for their youth should definitely hear.

Goodbye ElegySuda Masaki

Masaki Suda “Sayonara Elegy”

A gem of a love song that delicately portrays a heart wavering between loneliness and love.

The soul-stirring cry entrusted by Masaki Suda to Huwie Ishizaki resonates deeply with pure emotion.

In days where kindness feels clouded, a bittersweet yet powerful melody wraps around the shape of love we discover.

Released in February 2018 as Masaki Suda’s third single, it drew attention as the theme song for the NTV drama “Kiss That Kills.” Suda himself made a cameo appearance in the series, and the song garnered notice for blending beautifully with the drama’s world.

A supreme ballad that shakes the soul, dedicated to those who have experienced heartbreak and partings and wish to sublimate the feelings hidden deep within their hearts.

blue skyMarushii

Marcy – Blue Sky (Official Music Video)

An emotional rock ballad that portrays the hope that if you keep moving forward despite doubts and inner conflict, your heart will one day clear.

Created by Marcy, it was released in June 2025 as the theme song for the film “Youth Gestalt Collapse.” Vocalist-guitarist Ukyo Yoshida immersed himself in the script and drew on his own experiences during production, resulting in a piece that stands by the characters with complex emotions and resonates gently with listeners.

When you feel like you’re losing yourself, it’s sure to give you a gentle push forward.

GarnetOku Hanako

Garnet

This is the theme song of the animated film “The Girl Who Leapt Through Time,” a track where Hanako Oku’s vocals resonate deeply with the heart.

It captures the sparkle of days gone by and an unchanging feeling for someone precious—listening to it might just make your heart ache a little.

Released as a single in July 2006, it further heightened the film’s emotional impact.

Try listening to it on a summer evening when you want to sink into a slightly sentimental mood or when you’re remembering old friends.

It’s a song that will surely stay gently by your side.