[2026] A Collection of Memorable Graduation Songs from the 40s [Japanese Music]

GraduationWatanabe Misato

Misato Watanabe - Graduation

Misato Watanabe’s “Sotsugyo” is a quietly fragile and beautiful song that stands apart from her signature hit, “My Revolution.” Though it was a staple at graduation ceremonies back in the day, its appeal remains undimmed when you listen again now.

Among Tetsuya Komuro’s arrangements, the surging strings are especially stirring.

This track, which colored the graduation season of the ’90s, continues to live on in many people’s hearts.

Its gently wistful melody, arriving with the spring, will carry those in their 40s back to warm memories.

Give Me Wings (Red Bird cover)Kawamura Kaori

Please Give Me Wings - Kaori Kawamura

Kaori Kawamura’s “Tsubasa wo Kudasai,” released in 1991, is a cover of the hit song by the folk group Akai Tori.

Arranged as a band song with a driving beat, it brings the melody’s beauty into even sharper relief.

Born to a Japanese father and a Russian mother, Kawamura experienced hardships in her childhood because she was mixed-race.

The way she sings—shaped by those varied experiences—and her free, soaring voice are deeply moving.

It’s a classic worth listening to again carefully, alongside memories of youth.

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GraduationOzaki Yutaka

Yutaka Ozaki – Graduation (Official Music Video)

As graduation season approaches, many people can’t help but think of a song they find themselves humming.

Yutaka Ozaki’s “Graduation” is exactly that kind of song.

Since its release in 1985, it has continued to be loved by many and is still not uncommon to hear at graduation ceremonies today.

Ozaki’s intense lyrics captured the hearts of students at the time, and it’s no wonder he still has a large and devoted following.

The piano melody and Ozaki’s voice, which bring back the feelings of those days, still resonate deeply even as we grow older.

Why not listen to this moving song and look back on your youthful days?

Precious thingsroodo obu mejyaa

Lord of Major / Precious Things

Released in 2002, this song drew attention as Road of Major’s indie debut.

While looking back on lost time and the past, its lyrics emphasize the importance of facing forward and moving on, resonating deeply with listeners.

It was featured on TV Tokyo’s program “Hamaraja” and performed well on the Oricon charts.

With its driving melody and powerful lyrics, the song focuses on recognizing the important things we tend to overlook in everyday life.

It’s a track you’ll want to hear when reflecting on nostalgic memories, such as at graduation ceremonies or reunions.

As one of Road of Major’s signature songs, it continues to touch the hearts of many more than 20 years after its release.

Sneaker BluesKondō Masahiko

Sneaker Blues - Masahiko Kondo

A classic song that strikingly combines poignancy and strength, depicting the breakup of lovers who raced through the season of youth.

With fond memories of time spent together in matching sneakers held close to their hearts, the pure emotions of young love overflow in a stirring melody and vocals that many listeners will find relatable.

Released in December 1980 as Masahiko Kondo’s debut single and used as the theme song for the film “Youth Graffiti: Sneaker Blues,” it debuted at No.

1 on the Oricon chart.

It’s a track that resonates even more deeply now with nostalgic memories as the years have passed.

Perfect for reliving past romances and getting fired up at karaoke with friends.