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Beautiful tear-jerking songs / songs that make you cry your eyes out

[2026] Tearjerker Songs That Bring the House Down at School Culture Festivals

The school cultural festival, held once a year, is always a fun event.

From exhibitions and food stalls to volunteer performances on stage, there are all kinds of activities.

Amid all that, music plays an important role.

Whether it’s band performances, singing, dance routines, background music at the venue, or a theme song, music adds color to every moment.

In this article, we’ll spotlight tear-jerking, deeply moving songs from among our recommended tracks for cultural and school festivals.

Be sure to check out this playlist of masterpieces that will bring back memories of school life and the bonds with friends—and might just move you to tears!

[2026] Moving, Tearjerker Songs That Fire Up at Culture and School Festivals (71–80)

I am the strongest.Ado

[Ado] I’m the Strongest (Uta from ONE PIECE FILM RED)
I am the strongest.Ado

A rousing anthem that powerfully sings of one’s dreams and hopes! Riding on a melody created by Motoki Omori of Mrs.

GREEN APPLE, Ado’s commanding vocals surge forward, carrying heartfelt wishes from deep within.

Messages like “overcoming fear and moving ahead” and “a shining future with your companions” resound alongside an aggressive rock sound, gently giving listeners a push from behind.

Featured as an insert song in the June 2022 film ONE PIECE FILM RED, this track brought theaters to life and reached No.

2 on the Billboard JAPAN Hot 100.

It’s sure to instantly ignite the atmosphere at sports days and school festivals as well.

It starts here!DREAMS COME TRUE

DREAMS COME TRUE “It Starts Here!”
It starts here!DREAMS COME TRUE

A heartwarming friendship song from DREAMS COME TRUE, filled with hopeful cheers and a powerful anthem.

Released in January 2025, the track features an energetic, vibrant rhythm that blends ’80s disco sounds with modern Latin grooves.

It carries messages of friendship, the courage to take on challenges, and encouragement for those stepping into something new.

Created as the theme song for the “Osaka-Kansai Expo Commemorative ACN EXPO EKIDEN 2025,” this lively tune is perfect for singing and dancing with friends at school or cultural festivals.

It’s also ideal for choral or dance performances practiced with friends, as well as background music for video projects.

Enjoy this uplifting cheer song that adds color to cherished memories with your friends.

DarlingMrs. GREEN APPLE

Mrs. GREEN APPLE "Darling" Official Music Video
DarlingMrs. GREEN APPLE

This work by Mrs.

GREEN APPLE will be released in January 2025.

It’s a newly written song created as the theme for NHK General’s special program “Mrs.

GREEN APPLE 18 Festival.” The performance featuring a collaboration with 1,000 18-year-olds became a hot topic.

You’ll be overwhelmed by the dramatic sound and Motoki Omori’s soaring vocals.

The lyrics, which depict the struggles and growth of youth, truly resonate with listeners.

It’s a recommended track for anyone who wants to value their individuality.

Give it a listen when you need a boost of motivation!

[2026] Tear‑Jerking, Heart‑Touching Songs That Hype Up School Culture Festivals (81–90)

winding roadNovelbright

Novelbright – Winding Road [Official Music Video]
winding roadNovelbright

An uplifting coming-of-age anthem that depicts the journey from boyhood to adulthood along the winding road of life, set to a sweeping melody.

The track brings out Novelbright’s appeal to the fullest, portraying the anxieties and inner conflicts of everyday life, as well as the strength to overcome them.

Yudai Takenaka’s expansive vocals and the invigorating sound unique to a rock band resonate deeply.

Released for streaming in January 2025, the song was chosen as the theme for the TV Tokyo drama “Courtroom Dragon,” and its music video—directed by Hiroshi Tamaki—also became a hot topic.

It’s the perfect song for those moments when you strive to achieve something together with friends, like in club activities, cultural festivals, or school festivals.

C.h.a.o.s.m.y.t.h.ONE OK ROCK

ONE OK ROCK – C.h.a.o.s.m.y.t.h. [Official Music Video]
C.h.a.o.s.m.y.t.h.ONE OK ROCK

This song leaves a strong impression with a powerful message that feels like a snapshot from the pages of youth.

It embodies the courage to move toward the future and the resolve to cherish memories with friends, all delivered through ONE OK ROCK’s signature emotional vocals that resonate deeply.

Featured on the album Zankyo Reference, the track was released in October 2011 and skillfully fuses elements of metalcore and post-hardcore.

It was also chosen as the ending theme for the TV program “To the Top of the Earth: Futa Kuriki’s New Challenge,” captivating the hearts of many.

It’s a perfect choice for those who want to sing at cultural festivals, school festivals, or choir competitions.

Raise your voices together, and it will surely become an unforgettable memory.

Kimisidai TrainONE OK ROCK

This ambitious work by ONE OK ROCK is marked by powerful vocals and a fast-paced, exhilarating sound.

Interweaving English and Japanese lyrics, it expresses a determination to move forward—believing in one’s own potential and drawing strength from past experiences.

The members’ passionate performance blends perfectly with a message that pushes listeners onward.

Included on the album “Zankyo Reference,” released in October 2011, it’s cherished as a staple in live shows that fosters a strong sense of unity with fans.

More than just a boost during sports day practices, this song serves as a source of support when standing at life’s crossroads or taking a new step forward.

KizunaORANGE RANGE

The title “Kizuna” already hints that it’s a moving song, doesn’t it? It’s the 12th single released in 2005 by ORANGE RANGE, the band synonymous with wildly energetic rock tunes and one of Okinawa’s most iconic acts.

Chosen as the theme song for the drama “Ima, Ai ni Yukimasu” (Be With You), it’s a ballad that expresses feelings for someone precious, making it perfect for scenes where you want to convey heartfelt emotions toward friends or teammates.

How about using it as background music for a school festival finale?