[2026] A Collection of Graduation Songs Recommended for Gen Z [A Page of Youth]

proofflumpool

flumpool “Proof” Music Video (Full Chorus ver.)

This is a heartwarming song themed around parting with friends and embarking on new journeys.

Released in September 2011, it was created as the required piece for the junior high school division of the NHK National School Music Competition that year.

It is also included on flumpool’s third original album, “experience.” The song was performed on the NHK Kouhaku Uta Gassen, where it captured the hearts of many.

With lyrics that sing of hope for the future and bonds between friends, it especially resonates with students.

It is a song that many facing changes such as graduation or advancing to a new school can deeply relate to.

While expressing the loneliness of parting with friends, it also conveys a mutual respect for each other’s dreams, making it a piece that offers comfort to listeners.

Sakura, You, and Ituki.

tuki. 'Sakura Kimi Watashi' Official Music Video

This song, which shines with tuki.’s pure sensibility, portrays a bittersweet love that comes to an end with the arrival of spring.

Using the beauty of cherry blossoms as its motif, the lyrics capture the fleeting brilliance and fragility of youth, resonating deeply with teenagers experiencing graduation or parting.

The transparent vocals and gentle acoustic guitar beautifully express the resolve to move forward while cherishing memories.

Released in January 2024, the track is known as an insert song for ABEMA’s dating reality show “Kyou, Suki ni Narimashita.

Graduation Edition 2024,” and its animated music video by Posuka Demizu of “The Promised Neverland” also drew attention.

It’s a perfect song not only for students facing spring farewells, but for anyone who wants to look back on precious moments with someone special.

Goodbye Busyuzu

Goodbye Bus / Yuzu (Cover)

A gem of a love song that gently wraps farewells and reunions in an acoustic sound.

It’s a heartwarming track you’ll want to listen to as spring arrives.

The protagonist’s hidden feelings and regrets are portrayed over a tender, bittersweet melody.

Yuzu’s refreshing vocals continue to resonate with those experiencing springtime goodbyes.

Released in March 1999 and included on the album “Yuzuen,” it was also featured as an insert song in the NHK morning drama series “Yanchakure,” capturing fans’ hearts.

It’s a song we hope those parting from someone dear, just before starting a new chapter in life, will listen to.

As a spring anthem that gives you the courage to take a step toward the future, it comes highly recommended.

Youth and a momentmakaroni enpitsu

Macaroni Enpitsu “Youth and a Moment” MV

This song portrays the brilliance of youth precisely because it is fleeting.

It quietly speaks to the importance of accepting and sincerely facing those seemingly pointless, boring moments we all go through.

Released digitally in March 2019, it gained wider recognition as a McDonald’s commercial song the same year.

It was also included on the album “season” and is beloved by many fans as one of Macaroni Empitsu’s signature tracks.

In addition, it was chosen as the opening theme for TV Tokyo’s Drama 24 series “I Had a Dream About That Girl.” With a sound that gently embraces the universal worries and uncertainties of all young people and Hattori’s warm vocals that resonate deeply, this is a highly recommended track for Gen Z listeners in the midst of their youth right now, as well as for anyone who wants to look back on those irreplaceable days.

Youth DiaryRyukku to soine gohan

Cuddling with My Backpack, Bedside Rice / Youth Diary [Music Video]

An impressive song that beautifully balances the fresh innocence of first love with the bittersweetness of parting.

It’s a track from the album “Seishun Nikki,” released in March 2020 while Ryoku to Soinen Gohan were still in high school, and it’s filled with down-to-earth feelings born from the members’ real experiences.

From small everyday moments to farewells with friends and the courage to take a new step, the delicate emotions of youth are portrayed alongside refreshing guitar sounds.

In March 2023, it was featured in a tie-in with the online learning service Study Sapuri’s video for graduates, “Genzai Chiten.” It’s a song you’ll want to listen to at life’s turning points, such as advancing to higher education or starting a job.

S.A.K.U.R.A.Sandaime Jē Sōru Burazāzu fromu Eguzairu Toraibu

Sandaime J SOUL BROTHERS from EXILE TRIBE / S.A.K.U.R.A.

A dance number infused with traditional Japanese flavor brings out the distinctive expressive power of Sandaime J Soul Brothers from EXILE TRIBE to the fullest.

While themed around graduation and parting, it moves listeners with delicate scenic depiction and deep emotional expression.

Released in March 2014, it was also selected as the ending theme for TV Asahi’s “Onegai! Ranking.” Included on the albums “PLANET SEVEN” and “THE JSB WORLD,” this track is an impressive piece that fully showcases the members’ dance performance and vocal appeal.

It’s a song that colors the spring season, perfect for those embarking on a new chapter or for moments when you want to immerse yourself in precious memories.

GraduationOzaki Yutaka

Yutaka Ozaki – Graduation (Official Music Video)

Yutaka Ozaki delivers a work that captures the clumsy emotions of youth in their entirety with his powerful singing voice.

Frankly portraying the feelings of young people—such as the sense of suffocation in school life and distrust toward adults—this piece carries a universal message about the thirst for freedom felt within the school days that everyone experiences.

Released in January 1985 and peaking at No.

20 on the Oricon charts, it was issued as the lead single from the album Kaikisen (Tropic of Cancer).

Later, in 2016, it was also featured as the commercial song for a web-exclusive short film by a casual clothing chain, continuing to resonate with many people across generations.

It’s a track you’ll want to listen to when you’re wavering between ideals and reality or questioning the norms of society.