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

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?

10-year cherry blossomsAKB48

[MV full] 10nen Zakura / AKB48 [Official]

A song themed around graduation, parting, and reunion has arrived from AKB48 with the coming of spring.

Centered by Atsuko Maeda and Jurina Matsui, it weaves a story of farewells and reunions with fresh, vivid expression.

Set to an upbeat rhythm, its wishes for the future offer a reassuring message that resonates with the graduation scenes everyone experiences.

Released in March 2009, the single reached No.

3 on the Oricon Weekly Singles Chart.

It’s a track you’ll want to listen to during this season when partings and encounters intersect, as you reflect on memories with someone special.

SAKURA GoodbyeSCANDAL

SCANDAL “SAKURA Goodbye” / Sakura Goodbye – Music Video

A number that became one of SCANDAL’s signature early works, beautifully capturing both the bittersweetness and freshness that accompany graduation scenes.

Its message, told from a true-to-life perspective, carries a power that evokes universal empathy.

The song had existed since the band’s formation and drew attention when it was used as the ending theme for Fuji TV’s variety show “Mecha-Mecha Iketeru!” Its up-tempo rock sound and the sense of parting—and anticipation for a new journey—set against the season of cherry blossoms are sure to resonate as spring arrives.

It can be called a gem of a pop tune that colors a page of youth, perfect for listening to at life’s important milestones.

Graduationgagaga supi

Graduation

A bittersweet love song that likens a breakup between a man and a woman to “graduation.” Carefully crafted by the youth punk band from Kobe, Gagaga SP, the lyrics vividly capture the pain of heartbreak, lingering attachment, and the determination to move forward.

Released in January 2002 as their major-label debut single and peaking at No.

30 on the Oricon chart, this track has become one of their signature songs and a staple of their live shows, as the band is known for leading the youth punk boom.

With its straightforward lyrics and powerful sound, this song is sure to be a source of comfort when you’re healing from a breakup or trying to overcome a farewell with someone important.

Runnerbakufū suranpu

Bakufu Slump “Runner” MUSIC VIDEO (HD)

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.

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.

CheersNagabuchi Tsuyoshi

Cheers

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.