[For Graduates] Graduation Songs and Cheer Anthems to Convey Gratitude and Support
As graduation season approaches, many people may find themselves struggling to choose the perfect song to give.
Gratitude for friends who are setting off, excitement for the new life ahead, and a touch of sadness—those complex feelings are ones you want to convey through music.
In this article, we’ll introduce a wide range of songs to dedicate to graduates and uplifting tracks perfect for graduation ceremonies.
From gentle tunes that give a reassuring push forward to moving pieces that bring tears to your eyes, we’ve gathered graduation songs from various perspectives.
You’re sure to find a heartfelt track that will beautifully mark this important new beginning.
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[For Graduates] Graduation Songs and Cheer Anthems to Convey Gratitude and Support (81–90)
DreamerJO1
It’s a ballad that gives you the courage to take one step at a time toward your dreams.
Written as the theme song for the drama “Short Program,” in which all the members starred, it was included on the album “KIZUNA,” released in May 2022.
Created as a cheer song for people chasing their dreams, it stays close to those who, despite their anxieties and doubts, keep trying to face forward.
The melody, which blends tenderness and fragility, builds dramatically toward the end and moves the listener’s heart.
It’s a song you’ll want to hear on the day of a new departure.
Good luck to me tomorrow.Nanawo Akari
Nanawo Akari, who delivers addictive songs in her unique “social-misfit dame-pop” style, has released this single in February 2025, and it was chosen as the ending theme for the TV anime “I’m the Receptionist of the Guild, but I Don’t Want Overtime, So I’m Going to Solo the Boss.” Set to a high-velocity melody composed by Tamaya 2060% of Wienners, the song boldly and hilariously extols the importance of being kind to yourself.
Its positive lyrics and rhythm, which laugh off the grind of work and study, are perfect for a thank-you party performance! If you hype it up with a comical dance together with teachers and friends, the venue is sure to be filled with bright smiles and a sense of camaraderie!
The happiest treasuresutopuri
As a heartwarming song that adds color to graduation season, the voices of Strawberry Prince ring out.
It vividly paints the March scene of dancing cherry blossoms and gently sings of memories with friends and hopes for the future.
Released in March 2023, the song was given a surprise live debut during the group’s nationwide arena tour at Yokohama Arena.
Born from a collaboration with HoneyWorks, its refreshing melody will gently encourage not only those graduating, but anyone taking a new step forward.
If you are experiencing farewells with loved ones or new encounters, please give it a listen as a song that sends heartfelt support.
Hope ~Yell~NEWS
This is a rousing anthem that sends a powerful cheer to those setting off for a new stage in life.
Released as a single in May 2004, it was used as the image song for the Athens Olympic Volleyball World Final Qualifiers on both TBS and Fuji TV.
Its positive message, singing of hope for the future, is perfect for the major milestone of graduation.
In this season when excitement and anxiety about a new life mix together, give it a listen when you want to spur yourself on.
Bridge of Gloryyuzu
Among the many graduation songs out there, this one stands out for its powerful message that truly resonates.
The lyrics about the unseen tears and steady effort that have shaped who we are today mirror the graduates reflecting on their six years of school life, bringing a lump to the throat.
Released in July 2004 as Yuzu’s 21st single, it served as the official theme song for NHK’s Athens Olympics broadcasts, moving people across Japan.
This grand ballad, which gives us the courage to face the future after overcoming hardships, feels perfect for ceremonies celebrating a new beginning.
It’s a song you’ll want to sing as you head toward a hope-filled tomorrow, expressing gratitude to teachers and parents along the way.
Country RoadHon’na Yoko
It’s a memorable song featuring a simple, nostalgic melody and lyrics that portray the resolve to set out alone toward the future.
Released in June 1995 as the theme song for Studio Ghibli’s film “Whisper of the Heart,” it’s captivating for Yoko Honna’s clear, translucent vocals.
The song mirrors the film’s protagonist pursuing her dreams and is sure to gently encourage children standing at the major milestone of graduation.
Since April 2012, it has also been adopted as the station melody at the setting featured in the film, exemplifying how it has been loved for many years.
With a message about tucking away your memories and forging your own path, it’s perfect for graduates about to take flight into a new world.
Holding back tears and facing forward—there’s no doubt it will make for a moving ceremony.
[For Graduates] Graduation Songs and Fight Songs to Express Gratitude and Support (91–100)
YellKobukuro
Kobukuro has many songs that are perfect for graduation, but this one is especially fitting as a song to send off graduates! Just as the title suggests, it’s a song that lets you send your support to them.
Every part of the lyrics carries a wonderful message, but the chorus is where you really want to focus.
It delivers a message that’s just right for graduates setting off on a new path.
With the duo’s beautiful harmonies, it’s a moving masterpiece that resonates with the heart.
