An emotional friendship song. A roundup of classic tracks that sing about bonds with friends and shared memories.
Among friendship songs, what kind of vibe do you like?
There are songs that express everyday gratitude, songs about striving toward the same goal, songs that cheer on friends—so many different stories, right?
And the styles range from catchy, upbeat tracks to moving ballads.
In this article, we’ll introduce a selection of especially “emo” friendship songs, focusing on lyrical themes and overall mood.
Alongside tracks that grab you the moment you listen, there are plenty with lyrics that quietly sink in—so be sure to read the words as you listen.
An emotional friendship song. A collection of classic tracks about bonds and memories with friends (1–10)
Because I want to be by your side.SHISHAMO
This song carries a warm message about wanting to better oneself into a caring, gentle person in order to stay by someone’s side.
The down-to-earth lyrics, sung over a refreshing melody, are so easy to relate to.
It’s a work by SHISHAMO, a band formed in Kawasaki City.
Released as a single in October 2019 and later included on the album “SHISHAMO 6,” this piece was written as a set piece for the NHK All-Japan School Music Competition.
It was also featured on NHK’s “Minna no Uta” from August to September 2019, becoming widely beloved.
It’s the perfect song to sing together at important school events—like choir competitions and cultural festivals—where you want to deepen bonds with friends.
footprint(s)Little Glee Monster
Little Glee Monster is a vocal group whose overwhelming singing ability moves listeners to the core.
Their 16th single, “Ashiato” (Footprints), released in September 2020, is a grand number penned by the members themselves that gives you the courage to keep moving forward even in times of uncertainty.
Its powerful lyrics, which seem to affirm their own journey, are perfect for looking back on the days spent with friends during graduation season, when everyone sets off on separate paths.
Written as the required piece for the Junior High School division of the NHK All-Japan School Choir Competition and also broadcast on NHK’s “Minna no Uta,” the song has become widely loved as a choral piece.
It’s a moving track we hope you’ll listen to when you want to send thanks and cheers for the future to the dear friends with whom you’ve laughed and supported each other along the way!
MemoriesNiziU
Born from an audition show, NiziU has been captivating the world with their cute dancing and vocals.
Released digitally in February 2024, this track is an emotional pop song that blends the excitement and bittersweetness unique to spring.
It was chosen as the theme song for Universal Studios Japan’s “Uni Spring 2024,” and it was also announced that it will be included on the mini-album AWAKE.
The message—depicting the moment when everyday life with friends, once taken for granted, becomes an irreplaceable treasure at the milestone of graduation—is sure to resonate with students in the same situation.
Believing that bonds won’t fade even when you’re apart, it’s the perfect song to express your gratitude to your cherished friends!
You are my friend.UNISON SQUARE GARDEN
A signature ballad by UNISON SQUARE GARDEN that gently brings you closer to someone dear, with warmth like spring sunlight.
Featured near the end of their February 2013 album “CIDER ROAD,” this piece showcases a calm ensemble—distinct from their trademark high-speed rock—that’s part of its charm.
Through the act of calling someone’s name, it conveys a message of opening a slightly timid heart and reconnecting, making it perfect for this season of new encounters.
Rather than flashy words, vocals that feel palpably warm will surely give you a reassuring push.
Give it a listen when you want to be honest with someone important to you.
best friendSG
A song by SG that I want to give to a dear friend.
As the title suggests, it’s a warm message song themed around the bond with a friend deeply connected at heart.
Life brings many partings—graduations, turning points—but this song straightforwardly sings about an unchanging friendship despite distance, and the hope of meeting again.
Released as a single in March 2022, it resonated with many people, ranking high in LINE MUSIC’s real-time music video charts.
Known for “Bokura Mata,” SG penned this track in his own words, offering not only the sorrow of parting but also the courage to look ahead.
It’s perfect as BGM for graduation season, as well as for times when you want to express gratitude that’s hard to say, or when you’re thinking of a friend far away.
treasurewacci
A heartwarming number that portrays the anxiety and loneliness felt while chasing a dream, and the importance of friends who support each other in those moments.
Just believing you’re not alone can make you stronger, and the time spent together becomes the most irreplaceable treasure—this is the message woven into the song.
It will surely remind you of the bond with “the friends from those days.” The track is included on the album “Kanjō Hyakkei,” released in August 2017.
Interestingly, it drew attention when Miho Takagi named it her “victory song” to listen to before competitions at the PyeongChang 2018 Winter Olympics, which also led to a live performance on the TV program “Sukkiri.” It’s a perfect song for those striving toward their dreams or for teammates pushing each other to improve, such as in school clubs.
Friend ~ If you smilemiwa
A song where miwa portrays friendship in down-to-earth words: memories of laughing together, the bittersweet thought that you might drift apart someday, and still wanting to say “I like you” and “thank you.” It’s included on her first album, guitarissimo, released in April 2011, which debuted at No.
1 on the Oricon Weekly Albums Chart.
Though not a single, it’s remained a live staple.
The gentle, acoustic guitar–centered sound and her clear, airy voice quietly nestle close to the listener’s heart.
The charm of this piece lies in its delicate distance—something that can be read as friendship or romance.
Perhaps that’s why it feels right to hear during seasons when relationships waver—graduations, moves, changes in life.
If someone special comes to mind, try humming along together.