[Graduation Songs] Tear-Jerking, Heartwarming Ballads | A Showcase of Classics and the Newest Hits!
Among the many graduation songs, the ones that move us to tears most are surely the heartfelt ballads.
Just listening to music with a gentle, mellow tone can make memories and feelings of gratitude well up uncontrollably, bringing you to tears.
In this article, we introduce such moving graduation ballad songs.
They’re recommended as graduation chorus pieces, as background music, and for singing at karaoke.
Please enjoy these inspiring songs that will beautifully color your special day.
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[Graduation Songs] Moving Ballads That Bring Tears | A Roundup of Classics and the Newest Hits! (41–50)
Gazing up, the sky is blueHata Motohiro
A singer-songwriter with a voice that tugs at your heartstrings, Motohiro Hata performs “Ageba Aozora.” The song is included on his 2019 album Copernicus and was also featured in SoftBank’s “Graduation” commercial.
Its lyrics are a perfect fit for graduation; listening to it may bring back a rush of memories from school life and everyday moments with friends.
While it carries the sadness of parting, it also inspires the feeling of taking a bold new step forward—a quintessential graduation song.
Beyond the Night SkySMAP
Upbeat, cheerful numbers are great, but for a graduation ceremony, a heartfelt, moving ballad might fit the mood even better.
SMAP’s “Yozora no Mukō,” performed by the nationally beloved stars, is a song most of you have probably heard or even sung at least once.
Released in 1998 as their 27th single, it features lyrics by Shikao Suga and music by Yuka Kawamura.
It has become such a staple that it’s even included in school textbooks.
It’s the perfect song to sing at graduations or any meaningful moment when you want to send someone off warmly.
CorrectRADWIMPS
This is a song from RADWIMPS filled with memories of youth.
Its heartwarming melody and profound lyrics make you want to listen during graduation season.
Written for an NHK special in 2018, it has since been sung at many graduation ceremonies.
It was released digitally in January 2024, followed by a CD with choral sheet music in February.
With lyrics that delicately portray the feelings of young people—friendship, growth, and anxiety about the future—it’s sure to resonate deeply with students approaching graduation.
As you embark on a new chapter, why not sing it together with your friends and etch the memories in your heart?
budKobukuro
A ballad that begins with a delicate piano intro and features powerful, heartfelt vocals.
Released in March 2007, this song expresses gratitude and love for a mother, as well as the sorrow of parting, and stands as one of Kobukuro’s signature works, leaving a deep impression on listeners.
Written specifically as the theme song for a Fuji TV drama, it won the 49th Japan Record Award.
In March 2008, it was also selected as the entrance march for the opening ceremony of the 80th Memorial National High School Baseball Tournament.
It’s a song you’ll want to hear at graduations and life’s milestones.
Maplesupittsu
Kaede, one of Spitz’s most beloved classics.
It’s an extremely famous song that has been used in numerous forms of media, so I’m sure many people have heard it.
With its catchy melody, it beautifully expresses the gentle, airy quality that defines Spitz.
The chorus melody is crafted to be deeply moving, the kind that tightens your chest.
March 9Remioromen
Remioromen’s “March 9th” is a ballad perfectly suited for the milestone of graduation.
Originally written for a friend’s wedding, the song was later used as an insert track in the drama “1 Litre of Tears.” This led to a long-running hit, and it has since been sung as a chorus at many graduation ceremonies.
Its warm, heart-fluttering melody gently weaves together the hope and the feelings of farewell of young people setting out on a new journey.
The moving, unforgettable graduation melody spun by Remioromen will continue to be close to the hearts of many people.
Sakuraayaka
A heartwarming ballad by Ayaka that uses cherry blossoms as a motif to portray the bittersweetness of graduation and parting.
From the image of reaching out to the fluttering sakura petals, you can feel the lingering attachment and affection for times gone by.
The lyrics, which depict someone looking back on the past, may reflect Ayaka’s own experiences.
Released as a digital single in February 2018, this song resonated with many as a track suited to the graduation season.
It’s a piece I’d especially recommend to those embarking on a new chapter or those who have experienced a farewell with someone dear.