[Graduation Songs] Tear-Jerking, Heartwarming Ballads | A Showcase of Classics and the Newest Hits!

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?

Sakura rollFunatsu Mahiro

Masato Funatsu “Sakura Roll” Official Lyric Video

With the arrival of spring, the song that makes me want to listen is Masho Funatsu’s “Sakura Roll,” released in March 2021.

The title is a coined word that blends “sakura” (cherry blossoms) with a smartphone’s “camera roll,” a clever touch that layers the fleeting season with the enduring nature of memories.

This piece, graced by the soothing sound of acoustic guitar, features high school singer Ren on chorus; the overlap of their voices creates a beautiful harmony where warmth and wistfulness coexist.

The lyrics capture a contemporary feeling—the desire to etch fleeting moments into the heart like photographs—and gently resonate with those facing graduation or a new chapter in life.

It’s a highly recommended song to send with gratitude, while reflecting on days spent with friends or a loved one.

Farewell to the days of youthTHE Inazuma Sentai

Farewell to the days of youth

A powerful rock ballad that passionately sings of the ache of days that won’t return and the hope for the future.

It was included on a single released by THE Inazuma Sentai in November 2006.

This song was also used as the ending theme for the TV anime Silver Olinssis.

Loved for many years as a number that symbolizes the band’s lyrical side, it conveys a message of saying farewell to the past and stepping into the unknown, giving a strong push to those facing graduation.

When I turn around…Janne Da Arc

Janne Da Arc – If I Turn Around…

When it comes to graduation songs by visual kei rock bands, this has to be the one.

Released in February 2006 as Janne Da Arc’s 25th single, it’s a ballad that was also used as the theme song for the film “HIRAKATA,” in which the band members appeared.

It’s a fan favorite, too.

The lyrics, portraying the sorrow of parting and the hope for the future, deeply move listeners.

yasu’s emotional vocals are truly stirring, and the song is loved by many as a grand rock number.

This is a track I especially want people to hear when they’re setting off from a familiar place or promising to reunite with dear friends.

It’s a spring classic that never fades with time—highly recommended.

Thank youFUNKY MONKEY BABYS

FUNKY MONKEY BABYS “Thank You”

FUNKY MONKEY BABYS’ “Arigatou,” whose music video featuring Sanma Akashiya is also moving, has straightforward lyrics and a melody that strikes a chord with listeners.

It was their 21st single, released in 2013, and is a staple song for graduation ceremonies.

While FUNKY MONKEY BABYS have released many energetic tracks, “Arigatou” is a slow-tempo ballad.

The lyrics, sung over a gentle pace, are about gratitude.

Thanking all the memories and smiles makes it a perfect graduation song.

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nikki

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HarukaYOASOBI

YOASOBI 'Haruka' Official Music Video

This is a heartwarming collaboration between YOASOBI and broadcast writer Osamu Suzuki.

Based on the original novel “Tsuki Ōji” (Prince of the Moon), the story unfolds from the unique perspective of a mug that watches over its owner’s life.

The pure joy of having met and the warm love wishing for happiness are sure to make your heart flutter.

Released in December 2020, the song became a hot topic when it surpassed 100 million streams in June of the following year.

It is also included on the album THE BOOK and is familiar as the CM song for Takara Tomy’s “Punirunz.” If you’re facing graduation and feeling the sadness of parting from someone important, listening to this piece will help you once again appreciate the wonderful time you shared and the miracle of having met.

YELLikimonogakari

Ikimono-gakari “YELL” Music Video

The song YELL was created for the 76th NHK All-Japan School Music Competition.

Released in 2009 as Ikimono-gakari’s 15th single, it was included as a double A-side with Joyful—a track with a completely different vibe.

YELL is memorable for its lyrics and melody that resonate deeply.

It’s also a staple graduation song; its themes of graduation, parting, and stepping into a new world truly strike a chord with those about to graduate.

If you listen to it on the day of the ceremony, you’ll surely be moved to tears.

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utatane

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