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

my graduationSPEED

SPEED / my graduation -Music Video-

SPEED’s “my graduation” is a masterpiece that captures the complex emotions of the moment you step onto a new path at graduation.

The gentle resonance of the piano that spreads through the heart, shifting into a powerful vocal performance, stirs the listener’s emotions.

Lyrics that express the resolve to step into the future while holding dear the memories of days gone by have resonated with many graduation scenes, making it a song etched in the hearts of people in their 40s.

Combining the freshness and individuality of a girls’ group, it’s recommended not only as a graduation ceremony staple but also for reminiscing with friends at karaoke.

To the futureKiroro

Kiroro “To the Future” Official Music Video

This song gently sings of joy, sorrow, and feelings for loved ones, and it has continued to resonate with many people.

Released in June 1998, it drew significant attention as Kiroro’s second single.

It was also featured as the commercial song for P&G’s “Bridge of Feelings Project,” making it a beloved piece across generations.

Often performed at life’s milestones—such as graduations and weddings—it touches the heart in moments of parting from loved ones and embarking on new beginnings.

Alongside nostalgic memories, it inspires hope for the future, and it’s also a great choice to sing at karaoke.

I should be able to fly (in the sky).supittsu

Spitz / I Should Be Able to Fly in the Sky

Spitz’s classic song “Sora mo Toberu Hazu” (“We Could Even Fly”) gained popularity as the theme song for the drama “Hakusen Nagashi” and is also beloved as a karaoke staple.

It’s often sung in graduation scenes, and the sense of new beginnings and gratitude for encounters that the song conveys feels perfectly suited to the milestone of graduation.

Kusano’s gentle yet powerful voice rekindles the sparkle of youth.

This song, which sings of both nostalgia for days gone by and hopes for the future, is sure to resonate with many people.

A graduation song, a song of friends.19

A graduation song, a song of friends.

As graduation approaches and a new chapter begins, 19’s classic song is one that brings those precious moments to mind.

Released in March 1999 as the B-side to “Ano Kami Hikōki Kumorizora Waatsu,” this track pairs the warm tones of acoustic guitar with gentle lyrics that celebrate the value of days gone by.

Its words—recognizing that the “ordinary days we thought were boring” were actually treasures, and offering courage to overcome hardships—resonate deeply with listeners.

It’s a perfect song to hum at graduations, reunions, or when meeting old friends again.

For those in their 40s, it’s a cherished piece that remains etched in the heart alongside memories of youth.

cherry blossomMoriyama Naotaro

Sakura

A song that beautifully depicts a spring scene of cherry blossoms fluttering is a classic themed around graduation and farewell.

Naotaro Moriyama’s gentle, heartrending vocals deeply resonate with listeners.

Released in March 2003, the song was chosen as the ending theme for TBS’s “Sekai Ururun Taizaiki,” creating a major buzz.

In an extraordinary achievement, it reached No.

1 on the Oricon chart in its ninth week after release, instantly making Moriyama’s name known nationwide.

It’s also beloved as a go-to song for graduation ceremonies, and singing it at reunions is sure to stir nostalgic memories of youth.

It’s especially recommended listening during the season when you can feel spring’s arrival.

March 9Remioromen

Remioromen – March 9

Remioromen’s warm vocals, which gently accompany life’s milestones, continue to move countless hearts.

Released in March 2004, this song was originally written for a friend’s wedding, but it has also become widely loved as a graduation song.

It’s a band-style ballad that gradually builds from a quiet beginning, with lyrics expressing hopeful feelings about farewells and new beginnings.

The track was featured in various commercials and TV dramas and enjoyed a long-running hit on the Oricon charts, staying ranked for 62 weeks.

Covered by many artists, it remains beloved across generations.

As spring approaches, it’s the kind of nostalgic song you’ll find yourself humming—why not try singing it at karaoke?

TOMORROWMayo Okamoto

TOMORROW

With its uplifting lyrics and buoyant piano melody, this is a pep song that gives courage to listeners.

Singer-songwriter Mayo Okamoto’s debut single “TOMORROW,” released in May 1995, was chosen as the theme song for the TV drama “Second Chance” and became a massive hit, achieving Double Platinum status.

Its message—that strength lies beyond the tears—will surely give a powerful push to graduates embarking on a new world.

Beloved enough to be selected as the entrance march for the National High School Baseball Tournament in March 1996, this song is widely cherished.

Sing it with friends at a reunion, and your memories of youth are sure to come vividly rushing back.