RAG MusicGraduation
A lovely graduation song

[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!

[2026] A Collection of Memorable Graduation Songs for People in Their 40s [J-Pop] (41–50)

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.

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[2026] A Collection of Memorable Graduation Songs for People in Their 40s [Japanese Music] (51–60)

That paper airplane splits the cloudy sky19

One song that instantly brings my student days vividly back to life when I hear it in spring is “Ano Kami Hikōki Kumorizora Wotte.” Released in 1999, this track captured many hearts with 19’s emotionally resonant melody and lyrics that evoke the purity of youthful days.

The song even appeared on the stage of the Kōhaku Uta Gassen, and, influenced by 326—who served as visual producer and lyricist—it remains unforgettable for many teens and twenty-somethings of that era.

Listening to this song, which recalls the bittersweetness of school life, makes you feel as if you’ve gone back to those days.

And above all, what truly moves the heart is the gently tender, comforting intro of acoustic guitar and blues harp.

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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.

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Song of a Friendyuzu

Yuzu “Tomodachi no Uta” Music Video
Song of a Friendyuzu

Released in 1999, this song expresses gratitude for the little things in everyday life and the importance of friendship.

Through the small, ordinary moments of each day, it portrays the joy and bittersweet feelings of time spent with friends, as well as the struggles of growing up, leaving a warm impression with lyrics that gently resonate with listeners.

Issued as Yuzu’s seventh single, it was later included on various albums.

Starting in January 2019, it was also used in commercials for The Idolmaster Cinderella Girls: Starlight Stage and became playable in the game.

It’s a song you’ll want to hear during graduation season, and one you might find yourself humming at reunions or gatherings with friends.

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Give Me Wings (Red Bird cover)Kawamura Kaori

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.

hiyori
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Precious thingsroodo obu mejyaa

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.

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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!