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

Come, spring.Matsutōya Yumi

Spring, Come – Yumi Matsutoya (Full)

Singer-songwriter Yumi Matsutoya has released numerous songs that resonate across generations, from her early career under the name Yumi Arai to the present day.

Her 26th single, Haru yo, Koi, which served as the theme song for the NHK morning drama of the same name and was featured in multiple commercials, captivates listeners with its beauty—from the striking piano intro to the melody infused with a distinctly Japanese sensibility.

Its lyrical lines, evoking scenes of cherry blossoms, make it a perfect choice as a graduation song.

Not only beloved as background music but also popular as a choral piece, this ballad is known as one of Matsutoya’s signature songs.

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Hoshino Takashi

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Graduation PhotoArai Yumi

Graduation Photo – Yumi Arai (Yumi Matsutoya) (Full)

A song that’s also very popular as a graduation tune, “Sotsugyo Shashin” was released by Yumi Matsutoya during her Arai Yumi era.

Released in 1975, it was originally written for the vocal group Hi-Fi Set and was later self-covered by the artist.

The song reflects on a time after graduation has passed, singing about the person you once liked who appears in the graduation album, and the scenery that has changed since those days.

Listen to it while imagining the day you’ll look back on these youthful times, just like in this song.

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SAKI

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Someday, these tearsLittle Glee Monster

Little Glee Monster 'Someday These Tears Will' Short Ver.

As a moving ballad perfect for embarking on a new chapter, Little Glee Monster’s “Itsuka Kono Namida ga” is also highly recommended.

Little Glee Monster is a female vocal group known for their beautiful harmonies, and this song conveys hope that the tears shed up to now will surely become nourishment for the future.

The gentle piano tones and powerful vocals blend exquisitely, captivating listeners’ hearts.

Lyrics that affirm the bonds with friends and the efforts made so far will deepen the emotions of graduation even more.

Chosen as the support song for the All Japan High School Soccer Tournament, this track is sure to become one of the special memories for many students.

Letter ~Dear fifteen-year-old you~Anjura Aki

Angela Aki “Letter: To You, Fifteen” Music Video (HD)

There are many moving graduation songs, and Angela Aki’s “Tegami: Haikei Jugo no Kimi e (Letter: Dear You, Fifteen)” is one of the classics.

This song sends words of encouragement to oneself in junior high school, resonating deeply with listeners.

The lyrics speak poignantly yet powerfully to the mix of anxiety and hope everyone feels about the future, stirring emotions not only in graduates but across all generations.

Beloved as a choral piece, it’s also recommended as BGM for graduation ceremonies and for karaoke.

It’s a perfect choice to reminisce about school days gone by and to mark a new beginning.

PrideImai Miki

PRIDE – Miki Imai (Full)

Miki Imai’s smash hit song “PRIDE.” Released in 1996 as her 12th single, it is also one of her signature songs.

Many may remember it as the theme song for a drama starring Shingo Katori.

You can’t help but be captivated by Imai’s clear, translucent vocals, but what this song conveys is a state of mind: the strength you can gain by thinking of someone dear.

It is surely a love song, yet if you listen to it while thinking of a close friend or someone important in your life, you’ll find something that resonates in your heart.

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utatane

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Sakura, You, and Ituki.

tuki. 'Sakura Kimi Watashi' Official Music Video

This song, which shines with tuki.’s pure sensibility, portrays a bittersweet love that comes to an end with the arrival of spring.

Using the beauty of cherry blossoms as its motif, the lyrics capture the fleeting brilliance and fragility of youth, resonating deeply with teenagers experiencing graduation or parting.

The transparent vocals and gentle acoustic guitar beautifully express the resolve to move forward while cherishing memories.

Released in January 2024, the track is known as an insert song for ABEMA’s dating reality show “Kyou, Suki ni Narimashita.

Graduation Edition 2024,” and its animated music video by Posuka Demizu of “The Promised Neverland” also drew attention.

It’s a perfect song not only for students facing spring farewells, but for anyone who wants to look back on precious moments with someone special.

guidelinesUru

[Official] Uru “Kokoroe” – Theme song for Fuji TV’s Monday 9 p.m. drama “Kazama Kojin: Kyojo 0”

This song, performed by Uru—known for her rich, resonant vocals—carries a message about overcoming life’s trials.

Written as the theme for Fuji TV’s Monday 9 p.m.

drama “Kazama Kimichika: Kyojo 0,” it was released digitally in May 2023 and later issued physically in June of the same year as a double A-side single, “Kokoroe / Kami Hitoe.” The ballad, which conveys a quiet yet steadfast resolve, embodies a sense of duty and mindset befitting a police officer, as well as a message about overcoming life’s challenges.

It’s a touching piece that gently supports those graduating or embarking on a new chapter in life.