[2026] A Collection of Memorable Graduation Songs from the 40s [Japanese Music]
Even if graduation feels like a distant memory for you now, when spring draws near, there are surely one or two songs you can’t help but hum along to—along with the memories of those days.
In this article, we’ve picked out nostalgic graduation songs for people in their 40s, curated by a writer who’s in their 40s right now! We’re featuring not only timeless standards that are often sung at actual graduation ceremonies, but also plenty of masterpieces from the ’90s to early ’00s J-pop—songs whose intros alone can bring tears to your eyes—perfect for the graduation season.
It’s great for choosing tracks for karaoke with friends of the same generation, too.
Enjoy!
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[2026] A Collection of Memorable Graduation Songs for People in Their 40s [Japanese Music] (51–60)
KYOTOJUDY AND MARY
A song that depicts a journey into a new season that begins with the arrival of spring.
It opens with the scene of taking a train to go meet someone, then gently sings about memories from the time when flowers bloom and the warmth of holding hands.
Included on JUDY AND MARY’s album “MIRACLE DIVING,” released in December 1995, this track became so popular that, despite not being a single, it was selected for the best-of album “FRESH.” Delicately portraying the changing seasons and the imagery of travel, the song resonates deeply with listeners.
Played during graduation season, it may bring back nostalgic memories.
It’s also a perfect choice for karaoke when gathering with people of the same generation.
CheersNagabuchi Tsuyoshi
This is one of Tsuyoshi Nagabuchi’s signature works, carrying a warm message of blessing to celebrate new beginnings.
Loved by many as an anthem cheering on those stepping onto life’s big stage, it’s a heartwarming piano folk ballad that gently stands by you and gives you the courage to move forward.
Released in September 1980, the song was born from the feeling of congratulating a friend on their wedding, then re-recorded in 1988 and became a major hit.
It also became familiar as the theme song for Kirin Lager Beer commercials in the 1990s.
It’s a powerful song of encouragement that stays close when you or your friends are at life’s milestones or starting anew, and when you need a lift yourself.
Runnerbakufū suranpu
The iconic song by Bakufu Slump, capturing the vibrant spirit of youth and the bonds of friendship, continues to move countless hearts even today.
Its lyrics, depicting the everyday life of boys on the track team, vividly portray scenes like talking in the locker room after the rain and gazing at the stars on the field at night, stirring up nostalgic memories.
Since its release in October 1988, it has been featured as insert music on Nippon TV’s “Genius! Takeshi’s Energy Giving TV” and in a Hitachi video commercial, and has since remained a beloved cheer song for high school baseball.
This piece is perfect for times when you face parting from friends, need the courage to take a new step forward, or want to cheer on someone important.
Its powerful melody and passionate message will gently nudge listeners onward.
Graduationsaitou yuki
Yuki Saito’s “Sotsugyo” is a special song for many people.
Debuting in the 1980s and loved across generations, this track delicately portrays the feelings of students facing the major life milestone of graduation.
Its lingering melody and warm vocals invite listeners back to the bittersweet memories of their youth.
With a modest vocal range and a gentle tempo, it’s easy for anyone to hum along—one reason the song has been sung and cherished for so long.
As a singular presence, it stands as a quintessential graduation song for those in their 40s.
MY GRADUATIONChekkāzu
A gemlike ballad that richly portrays the milestone of graduation.
Set to a gentle melody, it tenderly depicts scenes like exchanging buttons on school uniforms and walking together to the station.
Looking back on memories from ages 16 to 18, it masterfully conveys both the sweetness of young love and the poignancy of parting.
Included on The Checkers’ album “GO” and released in 1987, it was the group’s first self-produced work, with lyrics by Fumiya Fujii and music by Susumu Takeuchi.
Deeply rooted in Japan’s music scene as a staple to hear during graduation season, this song is wholeheartedly recommended for anyone who cherishes memories of their youth.
In conclusion
The songs introduced in this article are all timeless classics that people in their 40s—and really, every generation from older to younger—can’t help but hum along to.
It’s a lineup unique to the 40-something generation, featuring both nostalgic Showa-era tunes and Heisei hits that were popular when they were teens.
As mentioned at the beginning, feel free to use this as a guide for choosing karaoke songs for class reunions and other gatherings!