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

Endless road19

19 (Juke) "Endless Road"

A classic song by the folk duo 19 that’s essential for the season of departures.

Released in April 2000 as their fourth single, it became widely known as the theme for Lotte’s “Fratte” commercial.

The song rides on a brisk, driving melody to express both the anxiety of stepping into an unknown world and the strong resolve to keep moving forward.

It’s the kind of track that naturally gives you courage when you listen to it while leaving your hometown for the big city.

Daphne (winter daphne)DISH//

DISH// – Sweet Daphne [Official Video]

DISH// is a four-member dance-rock band whose members are also expanding their careers as actors.

Released in 2021 as their 14th single and used as the theme song for the TV drama “The Winner in February: The Classroom of Guaranteed Success,” this track drew attention as a co-written piece by vocalist Takumi Kitamura and Hattori from Macaroni Empitsu.

The lyrics express gratitude to the important people who always support us and the sense of security that comes from having a place to return to—sentiments that resonate with graduates facing both anxiety and anticipation.

The lively shuffle beat, inspired by a marching song, may give you the courage to take a new step forward.

How about listening to this classic, also included on the album “TRIANGLE,” on the day of your departure?

365 Days’ Paper AirplaneAKB48

[MV full] 365 Nichi no Kamihikōki / AKB48 [Official]

A well-known AKB48 number that also served as the theme song for the NHK morning drama series “Asa ga Kita.” With its gentle melody and encouraging lyrics, it’s a song you’ll want to dedicate to those graduating and stepping into a new world.

Even if today doesn’t go well, don’t lose heart—live the way you believe.

It’s a number filled with that message.

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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.

Futabaaimyon

Aimyon – Futaba [OFFICIAL MUSIC VIDEO]

This is Aimyon’s warm, encouraging song, woven from and embracing the real emotions of 18-year-olds.

Created based on message videos submitted by 1,000 young people from across Japan, it delicately depicts the unique anxieties and hopes of the transition into adulthood.

Written as the theme song for NHK’s project “Aimyon 18 Festival,” it was released digitally in March 2022.

Later, it was included as the opening track on the album “Hitomi e Ochiruyo Record,” marking it as an important number.

It’s a perfect song for those about to leap into the unknown, or for graduates who, while carrying a touch of loneliness, are determined to look forward.

Be sure to listen to this piece on your special day of new beginnings—you’ll find the courage to break out of your shell and 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?

Good luck to me tomorrow.Nanawo Akari

Good Fortune to Tomorrow’s Me / 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!