![[Graduation Songs] Tear-Jerking, Heartwarming Ballads | A Showcase of Classics and the Newest Hits!](https://i.ytimg.com/vi_webp/RtOACCwHMyE/maxresdefault.webp)
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] Tear-Jerking, Moving Ballads | A Roundup of Classics and the Newest Hits! (1–10)
BFFMrs. GREEN APPLE
The loneliness of being separated from a dear friend, and the wish to stay connected no matter what.
Mrs.
GREEN APPLE’s “BFF” gently embraces those complex feelings.
Released toward the end of their July 2023 album “ANTENNA,” this track bears a title that means “best friend,” yet it goes beyond a simple friendship song, becoming a profound ballad that tenderly accepts distance and the passage of time.
When you want to reaffirm the bonds you share with your companions, give it a listen.
DreamerJO1
It’s a ballad that gives you the courage to take one step at a time toward your dreams.
Written as the theme song for the drama “Short Program,” in which all the members starred, it was included on the album “KIZUNA,” released in May 2022.
Created as an anthem to support those pursuing their dreams, the song stays close to people who, despite their anxieties and doubts, try to look ahead.
Its melody, which blends gentleness with fragility, builds dramatically toward the end and truly moves the listener’s heart.
It’s a song you’ll want to hear on the day you set off on a new journey.
EverlastingSixTONES
This piece is included on the album CITY, released in January 2022.
It was also used as the corporate CM song for Idemitsu Kosan, so many of you have probably heard it on TV and elsewhere.
It’s a grand ballad befitting life’s milestones such as weddings and graduations, carrying a warm message that evokes eternal bonds and trust.
The rich, layered sound featuring a choir is sure to move listeners to tears.
It’s a number we hope you’ll listen to when you want to express gratitude to someone important.
footprint(s)Little Glee Monster
Little Glee Monster, whose powerful vocals and beautiful harmonies move listeners to the core.
This work is their 16th single, released in September 2020.
Chosen as the set piece for the Junior High School division of the 87th NHK All-Japan School Music Competition, it has been sung by many students.
Even in times of anxiety or doubt, its message—trust the path you’ve walked and keep moving forward—resonates deeply alongside a delicate ensemble.
It’s a moving ballad that gently affirms every step taken so far.
horsetailnishina
Released in February 2025, this work was newly written as the theme song for NHK’s Saturday drama “The Path Where Lilacs Bloom.” Its melody, which evokes the resilient power of life that endures beneath the snow and eventually sprouts, makes it a perfect number for the season of departures.
The worldview of waiting for spring after a harsh winter will gently support those feeling anxious before graduation.
It’s also recommended for times when you want to look back on memories with someone special.
Promise ~promises~EXILE
A heartwarming ballad by EXILE themed around a promise to meet again.
Created as the final work featuring ATSUSHI and TAKAHIRO as the duo on vocals, who have long led the group, the song’s lyrics were written by ATSUSHI.
It is filled with unwavering bonds that remain strong even when apart and a firm hope for the future.
Played at important milestones like graduation ceremonies or farewell gatherings to express gratitude, it will surely envelop the entire venue in a warm, moving atmosphere.
Precious FeelingsRIEHATA
This exquisite ballad by RIEHATA—renowned worldwide as a choreographer—deliberately sets aside dance performance to convey emotion solely through her voice.
Released in August 2023 to coincide with her birthday, the song gently stands beside those carrying pain or loneliness, offering encouragement that says, “You’ll be okay.” It’s a tear-jerker that expresses gratitude to friends and family who are parting ways after graduation, and serves as a cheer for oneself embarking on a new path.