[2026] Uplifting Songs for Graduation: J-POP Graduation Songs and Anthems

Let’s give it a tryWANIMA

au Santaro TV commercial: “Let’s Try It” edition (60 seconds + making-of footage)

WANIMA is a three-member rock band that also performed at the 68th NHK Kouhaku Uta Gassen.

They’re all about brightness and positivity.

Graduation ceremonies can easily bring tears, but instead of dwelling on the past, their message—encouraging you to take on what’s next—gives you energy.

It’s a song that brilliantly captures a lively, forward-looking worldview.

It has the power to uplift listeners, spark the motivation to try new things, and stands as one of those timeless tracks that resonates deeply with many people!

spring sunlightKanapu × Kujira

[Suite] KAFU × Kujira #97 “Spring Sunlight” [Original MV]

A pleasant song that evokes the warm sunshine of spring.

KAF’s clear, transparent voice resonates with the season of graduations and farewells.

Born from a collaboration with Kujira, this work was released digitally in March 2022.

The lyrics weave together the many emotions that overflow at moments of parting, striking a deep chord with listeners.

As an encouraging anthem that gives you the courage to take a new step, it’s a song you’ll want to hear at graduation ceremonies and life’s turning points.

Savor this warm, heartfelt track that showcases KAF’s distinctive expressive power.

CELEBRATELittle Glee Monster

LittleGleeMonster「CELEBRATE」MAD

Little Glee Monster, the vocal group that adopted a new lineup in 2022 and continues to captivate fans with their unwaveringly powerful choral work, has released their 22nd single, “UP TO ME!” The track “CELEBRATE,” included on the single, was selected as the collaboration song for the National High School eSports Championship.

Its lyrics, which depict the feeling of taking a step toward one’s own dreams, seem perfect for powerfully brightening the new beginning that is graduation day.

With a refreshing ensemble and soulful vocals that give you a push forward, it’s a pop tune you’ll want to play on a day of celebration.

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Hoshino Takashi

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We againSG

Us, Again – SG (Official Lyric Video)

SG’s song, themed around parting and reunion, is a perfect coming-of-age track for graduation ceremonies.

Memories with friends, the loneliness of separation, and hope for a new path are conveyed through gentle vocals.

Released in April 2021, the song gained strong support, particularly on social media.

It has been especially popular among students on TikTok.

Set to a soft R&B beat, the lyrics will resonate deeply not only with those about to graduate, but with anyone facing a turning point in life.

It’s a song that gives you the courage to take a new step forward.

Walking with youNovelbright

Novelbright – Walking with you [Official Music Video]

Walking with you by Novelbright is a cheering song that stands by your side as you embark on a new chapter.

As you look forward to the life ahead, there will surely be moments of excitement as well as anxiety.

In those times, Novelbright’s powerful melodies and lyrics will reach your heart and give you courage.

It’s easy to see why this song moved so many people that it was featured in the drama “Koisuru Shuumatsu Homestay 2020 Spring.” With its refreshingly clear vocals, it’s sure to give you a push as you take your first step toward a fresh start.

Beloved by many young people, Walking with you is a perfect listen for the milestone of graduation.

JUMPIkuta Rira

Rira Ikuta “JUMP” Official Music Video

As a perfect cheer song for a new chapter in life, I recommend Rira Ikuta’s “JUMP.” Chosen as the official theme song for Fuji TV’s coverage of the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022, this track is filled with words that encourage you as you take a step toward the future.

Her clear, transparent voice gently embraces both the bittersweet feeling of graduation and the thrill of a fresh start.

Featuring comforting guitar phrases and an invigorating chorus, it’s a song that will give listeners courage and hope.

It’s the ideal track for the graduation season—one that gives you the courage to take a step toward tomorrow.

Perfect Sense DREAMERONE OK ROCK

ONE OK ROCK "The Totally Sensational Dreamer"

It’s a 2010 song by ONE OK ROCK that mixes Japanese and English.

This track really catapulted their popularity, didn’t it? It seems to carry the message that convictions shouldn’t just be held—they should be spoken aloud.

As a piece that condenses both ONE OK ROCK’s musicality and their message, it’s supported by listeners across a wide range of ages.