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

cheerMarushii

Marcy – Yell (Official Music Video)

Marcy, a three-piece rock band from Fukuoka, has delivered a gently encouraging anthem that gives a quiet push to those striving every day.

Released digitally in February 2024, this song was written specifically as the 55th anniversary campaign track for Shinken Zemi’s high school course.

Written and composed by vocalist-guitarist Ukyo Yoshida, it carries a message that validates the effort we put in each day—effort that can’t be measured by scores—and offers comfort for times when you feel alone in the world.

The music video, set in a school, portrays the struggles and coming-of-age moments of boys and girls in an ensemble narrative, deepening the song’s worldview.

It’s a number you’ll want to hear if you’re about to take your first step after graduation, or if you’re giving your all every day even when the results don’t show.

Graduationonsoku rain

Sotsugyo

That unique atmosphere after the graduation ceremony—a mix of loneliness and anticipation—is unforgettable, isn’t it? This song by Onsoku Line, a rock band based in Fukushima Prefecture, features a striking guitar sound that seems to drown out that very heartache.

It was included as the B-side to the single “Natsume,” released in March 2006, and was later featured on the album “Fūmi Zekka: Onsoku Line Rare Tracks.” The lyrics resonate with the determination to move forward boldly into the season of thaw, even while shedding tears of farewell.

It’s a rock tune I’d recommend to those who’d rather cry their hearts out, laugh, and step into the next stage, rather than sink into a somber ballad.

Run Through the MemoriesMy Hair is Bad

My Hair is Bad – Dash Through the Memories

A ballad by My Hair is Bad filled with a warm message of gratitude to friends who shared irreplaceable time together, and of turning even painful experiences into strength for the future.

The sincere words penned by vocalist Tomohito Shiiki affirm the days that have passed in their entirety and give you the courage to take a new step forward.

Released in June 2024, the song also drew attention for being written as the theme for the film Crayon Shin-chan: Our Dinosaur Diary.

It’s an important track that closes out the album ghosts, featuring a grand band sound worthy of a story’s end credits.

It’s a song that gently supports graduates as they etch their memories into their hearts and move on toward tomorrow—why not listen to it together with your cherished friends?

Thank youKagura SCOPE

Kagura SCOPE – Thank You [Official Music Video]

A solo artist known as a “Rapsinger” who fuses rap and singing, Kagura SCOPE has been winning support from street performances.

This single, released in December 2024, is a heartwarming pop number that straightforwardly expresses gratitude.

Its lyrics reflect on the appreciation we often overlook in everyday life and the miracle that encounters are never to be taken for granted, resonating deeply with those facing seasons of farewells and new beginnings.

It’s easy to project feelings for loved ones—partners, family, and friends—and the music video, now available, heightens the emotion visually as well.

Perfect as background music for graduations and farewell parties, this gentle, empathetic song feels like it speaks the words of thanks we can’t fully convey ourselves.

spring skySuzuki Suzuki

【Graduation】Spring Sky – Suzuki Suzuki【Official Music Video】

This is a ballad by the brother duo Suzuki Suzuki, featuring beautiful harmonies that resonate deeply.

Written in down-to-earth language, the song captures the anxiety and excitement of leaving your hometown at graduation to head somewhere new, along with the sadness of parting.

Rather than pushing you forward, its appeal lies in the gentle warmth that softly stays by your side through shifting emotions, making it a supportive companion for anyone starting a new chapter.

Released digitally in February 2022, it is also included on the album “313.” The music video drew attention for featuring popular video creators, and karaoke service DAM even ran a scoring battle campaign, offering not just a listening experience but plenty of ways to enjoy singing it as well.

Give it a listen when you’re bidding farewell to a dear friend, or as a cheer for yourself.

Endless JourneyMr.Children

Mr.Children “Endless Journey” MUSIC VIDEO

Mr.Children has remained at the forefront of the J-pop scene for many years.

Among their songs, this one is especially popular and a perfect fit for graduation scenes.

It’s a gentle, mid-tempo rock ballad that draws you in as you listen.

The lyrics carry a positive message about opening new doors and continuing to move forward, which is sure to resonate with graduates.

Although it was released in 1998, it has been loved for many years and will surely remain a timeless classic.

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Hane Keisuke

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A Bouquet for YouUtada Hikaru

Hikaru Utada – A Bouquet for You

This is a ballad imbued with a warm message that gently accompanies the season of partings.

It paints a bittersweet yet beautiful scene of entrusting gratitude to a loved one and an inexpressible love to a “bouquet,” and offering it as a gift.

Released digitally in April 2016 as Hikaru Utada’s comeback work, it became familiar as the theme song for the NHK morning drama series Totto-chan.

It resonated with those who had long awaited her return, earning high acclaim, including the Excellence Award at the 58th Japan Record Awards that year.

It’s perfect for moments like graduation ceremonies when you want to express thanks to teachers and friends.

This piece, which gently nudges you forward on a new path, will add color to a special day when you bid farewell with smiles through tears.