[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] (31–40)
If I Could Become a StarMr.Children
A song that sings of the passion and determination of young people spreading their wings toward their dreams.
It beautifully captures the emotions of high school students on the verge of graduation and resonates deeply with listeners.
The refreshing sound of the acoustic guitar paired with a powerful yet gentle vocal delivers a track that gives you the courage to move forward.
Included on the December 1992 album “Kind of Love,” it was also used as the theme song for a music program on TV Kanagawa.
As a representative track from Mr.Children’s early years, it has been beloved by fans for many years.
Listening to it at graduations, reunions, and other moments of parting or new beginnings with important people is sure to stir your heart.
GraduationZONE
Released in February 2004, ZONE’s song is a heartwarming track themed around the milestone of graduation.
It expresses the memories overflowing from a once-cramped classroom, as well as hopes and anxieties for the future, skillfully portraying the emotions of a new beginning.
Issued as ZONE’s 12th major single, it debuted at No.
5 on the Oricon charts, marking a remarkable achievement of ten consecutive top-10 entries.
The song is also included on the album “N” and the best-of collection “E ~Complete A side Singles~.” This is a track you’ll want to listen to during graduation season, and it will resonate at reunions or whenever you look back on old memories.
Along with ZONE’s refreshing vocals, it might be nice to reminisce about those days.
Full of memoriesH₂O
With the arrival of spring comes the memorable graduation season.
Perfect for this time is H2O’s “Omoide ga Ippai” (“Full of Memories”).
Despite the many years since its 1983 release, it remains a timeless classic that resonates with many.
The song is also known as the theme for the TV anime Miyuki and became an enduring hit.
Its melody is familiar, and just hearing the chorus will instantly wrap you in nostalgia.
With its beautiful harmonies, it’s great for collaborating with friends.
Loved across generations, this song will add a brilliant touch to the memories of your graduation day.
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.
Graduationgagaga supi
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.