[For Graduates] Graduation Songs and Cheer Anthems to Convey Gratitude and Support

Don’t give upZARD

Don't Give Up – ZARD (Full)

With its lively rhythm and powerful, inspiring lyrics, “Makenaide” is a song that uplifts graduates.

Since its release by ZARD in 1993, it has been beloved by many for a long time.

Izumi Sakai’s clear, radiant vocals and the lyrics that remind us of the importance of looking forward are especially compelling.

The catchy melody, easy to sing and easy to remember, also brightens graduates’ spirits.

It’s a song we hope will be sung as a message of encouragement, so that, upon graduation, listeners can face the challenges that lie ahead.

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mutō

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Full of memoriesH₂O

Full of Memories Official Kenji Nakazawa

Although it was released in 1983, this song is often chosen for music classes and choral competitions, and it’s beloved by people of all ages.

It was also used as the ending theme for the TV anime Miyuki, based on the work of Mitsuru Adachi, who is also famous for Touch.

As you grow up and look back on your past self, may your memories be filled with wonderful moments—believe in your potential and keep moving forward.

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sasashina

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About meMrs. GREEN APPLE

Mrs. GREEN APPLE – About Me

When it comes to a grand rock ballad that proudly sings of the wonder of life, this song by Mrs.

GREEN APPLE stands out.

Even when you feel down comparing yourself to others, it carries a warm message that affirms every day as an irreplaceable miracle.

Written as the support song for the 97th All Japan High School Soccer Tournament, it was included on their eighth single released in January 2019.

Its lyrics gently embrace those who have tasted tears in the world of competition, making it the perfect anthem to powerfully push students forward at the major milestone of graduation.

Listen to it especially when your efforts feel unrewarded or when you’re anxious about a new world.

It’s a gem of a masterpiece that helps you accept yourself just as you are and fills you with the courage to move ahead.

horizonback number

back number – Horizon

This piece, released in August 2020 by a three-piece band from Gunma Prefecture, is well known for the story behind its creation: it was made for high school students who lost their stage when the 2020 Inter-High was canceled.

It gently stays close to the frustration of efforts that don’t pay off and the unreasonable sorrow that follows, delivering a message that knowing pain makes us kinder to others—one that deeply moves listeners.

While holding the sense of loss from shattered dreams and goals, it carries a warmth that suggests those very experiences will become the nourishment that shapes your future self.

Even as graduates face a reality that doesn’t go as planned, this song will softly support them as they take their first steps down a new path.

For a cherished new beginning, why not offer the deep love woven by back number?

Because we’re friends.Ochiai Wataru

Wataru Ochiai – Because We’re Friends (Music Video)

Singer-songwriter Wataru Ochiai, whose warm voice and down-to-earth words resonate with many listeners.

Perfect for graduation season, “Tomodachi Yakarane” is a friendship song written in unpretentious language with a touch of Kansai dialect.

Its warm message—that even if you’re apart, the relationship doesn’t end—helps ease the sadness of parting.

Released as a digital single in February 2022, the song was also chosen as the tie-up track for Tokyo Dome City Attractions’ spring event “Welcome, Graduates 2023.” The lyrics, sprinkled with concrete memories from student days, are sure to awaken each listener’s own recollections.

How about giving it to a friend who’s graduating to convey your unchanging bond?

Tomoë GakuenFukuyama Masaharu

Masaharu Fukuyama – Tomoe Gakuen (Full ver.)

A song by Masaharu Fukuyama, written at the request of Tetsuko Kuroyanagi as the theme for the drama “Totto-chan!”.

With beautiful piano and strings, it sings of gratitude to those who raised him and memories of dear friends who are all the more cherished for being different.

It’s a perfect number for graduation, expressing feelings for the school that taught us what’s important in life.

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Hoshino Takashi

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Graduation, goodbye.haji→

Hajime → Graduation Goodbye.

A song by Hajime, a singer-songwriter from Miyagi Prefecture.

While mourning the moment of parting that has come, it conveys a message of still smiling and encouraging each other, sung with a gentle yet powerful voice.

It’s a track that empowers both yourself, stepping forward into a new world after graduation, and your friends.

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Hoshino Takashi

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