[2026] Uplifting Songs for Graduation: J-POP Graduation Songs and Anthems
After graduation, many of you may find yourselves living apart from the friends you’ve spent so much time with and the family who has supported you, as you move on to higher education or start working.
Perhaps excitement about taking your first steps toward your dream coexists in your heart with the anxiety of wondering if things will go well.
At times like these, when you might be feeling a little discouraged, you want to listen to uplifting songs that cheer you on, don’t you?
We’ve gathered songs filled with warm encouragement to give a gentle push to you, who are setting off at graduation, and to your dear friends.
Tune in to these tracks that will give you courage as you take your next step forward!
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Support songs to listen to at graduation [2026]. J-pop graduation songs and anthems (71–80)
Best FriendNishino Kana
“Best Friend” is a song expressing gratitude to a best friend.
Released in 2010 by Kana Nishino—often called the “queen of ringtones” and a defining singer of the Heisei music scene—the song celebrates the friendship of best friends who support each other.
It’s a moving track about listening to one another in tough times and offering encouragement when things feel like they’re falling apart.
It’s a perfect song to send as a cheer to a best friend you’ll be separated from after graduation.
Precious thingsroodo obu mejyaa
Lord of Major’s signature song “Taisetsu na Mono” was released in September 2002.
It’s a graduation song about parting ways with friends.
Though the experience was sad enough to bring tears, its message is to remember those gentle tears and keep supporting each other as we move forward in life.
It’s a song that tenderly embraces you, saying that even if we’re apart, we’re still connected under the same sky.
End and Beginningkariyushi 58
Once the graduation ceremony is over, we’ll each go our separate ways.
Is there anything you still haven’t done with the little time left? “Owari Hajimari” is a song that makes you want to express your feelings—whether for dear friends or someone you care about—so you won’t have any regrets.
Not only are the lyrics rich with meaning, but the simple acoustic guitar and sentimental melody truly strike a chord.
Even if your paths for further study or employment differ, this song reminds you that the time spent with your friends is irreplaceable.
Be sure to listen to it at your graduation ceremony!
[2026] Cheer songs to listen to at graduation. J-pop graduation songs and fight songs (81–90)
It’s okaywacci
Let me introduce a song that reminds you the tears you’ve shed are never in vain.
“Daijoubu” by wacci, released in 2015, is a track that turns both the tough and joyful moments of school life into cherished memories.
Chosen as the theme song for the TBS Thursday drama “37.5°C no Namida,” its gentle vocals and warm sound have a calming effect.
As you face graduation, feeling a rush of many emotions is a wonderful thing—it’s proof of how hard you’ve worked every day.
That message will support those who are graduating!
Fly Highmilet
Milet’s vocals, which convey a firm strength within their suppleness, make this a song that seems to give you the courage to set off on a new journey.
“Fly High” was used in 2022 as NHK’s theme song for winter sports, and it’s filled with a message of support for athletes who keep facing forward and aiming higher no matter which way the wind is blowing.
It feels like a perfect fit for everyone about to spread their wings into a world where no one knows what awaits.
Hold this song in your heart and take your first step with poise into a new world!
possibilitySambomasutā
This is “Possibility,” a cheering song for graduates from Sambomaster, a band that has released many positive, love-filled tracks.
It was also used as the theme song for the film “Flying Colors,” and its lyrics—perfectly matched to the movie’s story—moved many hearts.
As the title suggests, it’s a rock number packed with the possibilities that lie ahead.
It fills you with hope that the future can shine even brighter! Let’s send off anxious graduates with a bright, uplifting message!
Dear, boyHump Back
Hump Back’s major-label debut, “Dear Boys,” is a pep song dedicated to young people setting out on a new chapter in life.
It channels the setbacks of youth into music that gives you the strength to look ahead.
In particular, for graduates filled with both anxiety about the future and hopeful anticipation, it will bring courage and a sense of understanding.
Even when you feel uncertainty and doubt at your back, the refreshing, powerful melody stays close to your heart and makes the first step toward tomorrow feel lighter.
The message woven into the lyrics is sure to keep resonating in your heart no matter what you’re going through.