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

FanfareTamaki Kōji

Koji Tamaki “Fanfare” MUSIC VIDEO (Theme song for TBS Sunday Theater ‘The Royal Family’)

With a driving melody and a soul-stirring, overwhelming vocal, this song Koji Tamaki released in November 2025 is an anthem written as the theme for TBS’s Sunday drama “The Royal Family.” Layering in memories from his childhood in Hokkaido, it sings not of winning or losing, but of the importance of moving forward in your own way.

Filled with encouragement for those who keep living for what matters, even while getting hurt, this piece is perfect for graduates about to embark on a new path.

It will gently nudge the backs of those feeling uncertain or alone.

NonfictionsDa-iCE

Da-iCE / “Nonfictions” Music Video

This work is notable for its driving beat, dramatic sound, and a wistful melody that feels like it captures a fleeting moment of youth.

The songwriting and composition were handled by Da-iCE members Taiki Kudo and Sota Hanamura, known for their powerful vocals and dance, and the song has been chosen as the 2025 cheer anthem for the 107th National High School Baseball Championship and as the theme for Nettou Koshien.

The lyrics portray the stories not only of the ballplayers but of everyone involved, and they’re sure to give a strong push to those of you approaching the major milestone of graduation.

It’s an energetic track that gives you the courage to step toward your dreams, carrying with you the bonds forged through club activities and school life.

It affirms the efforts you’ve made up to now and inspires hope for the future.

exceed; surpass; go beyond; cross (over)[Alexandros]

[Alexandros] – Transcend (MV) (Anime “Uma Musume: Cinderella Gray” Season 1 Opening Theme)

[Alexandros], a rock band that continues to captivate fans with overwhelming musicianship and a one-of-a-kind presence.

This track, included on their album PROVOKE released in April 2025, was selected as the opening theme for the anime Uma Musume: Cinderella Gray.

Its worldview—portraying the act of overcoming walls such as one’s own limits, the past, and the expectations of others—will surely resonate powerfully with those standing at the major milestone of graduation.

A dynamic ensemble that balances tension and release will turn anxiety about the future into courage.

Give it a listen when you want to steel yourself to dash into the unknown, or when you need to fire yourself up.

Good Luck!SixTONES

SixTONES – Good Luck! [YouTube ver.]

This cheer song overflowing with positive energy gives a powerful push to graduates taking their first steps forward.

Released as a single by SixTONES in November 2022, it was chosen as the theme song for the drama “Saisho wa Pā,” starring member Jesse.

Its straightforward message—if you have a dream you want to achieve, it’s okay to fail; just keep moving forward with a smile—will surely encourage anxious hearts.

Debuting at No.

1 on the Oricon Weekly Chart, this track captured the hearts of many and is one you’ll want to listen to with friends as you each set off on your own paths.

It’s a perfect number for graduation season, giving you the power to face the future with a bright smile!

orangeMrs. GREEN APPLE

Mrs. GREEN APPLE – Orange [LIVE from Zenjin Mito to Weltraum ~Meimei Edition~]

It’s a cheer song with a nostalgic tone that evokes both the bittersweetness and warmth of twilight.

Looking back on one’s youth from adulthood, it gently affirms that both the happy and the sad moments are treasures, expressed with Mrs.

GREEN APPLE’s characteristic pop sensibility and the familiar feel of folk.

Included on the album “ANTENNA,” released in July 2023, this piece was carefully matured over time from production to completion, and since August 2024 it has also been featured as the CM song for Asahi Kasei Realty & Residence’s “ATLAS.” Give it a listen when you’re graduating and taking a new step, or in those moments when you suddenly feel nostalgic for the past.

Like the evening scenery shared on their stadium tour, it’s a song that lights a warm glow in your heart.

Prologue.Yuika

Prologue. / “Yuika” [MV]

Graduation season—it takes courage to leave the familiar classroom and take a new step forward, doesn’t it? Yuika, an artist who resonates with audiences mainly on social media, released her song “Prologue.” in March 2023 to coincide with her own high school graduation.

Its warm band sound and down-to-earth lyrics sink gently into the heart.

The track was also featured as an insert song on ABEMA’s show “Koisuru▼Shuumatsu Homestay 2023 Spring ~Sweet Orange Memory~.” While looking back on the past, it carries a resolve to face the story that is about to begin.

As you reminisce about days spent with friends and move toward the future, this song will give you a gentle push—be sure to give it a listen.

Bye-Good-ByeBE:FIRST

BE:FIRST / Bye-Good-Bye -Music Video-

Bye-Good-Bye teaches us that “goodbye” isn’t an ending, but the starting line toward our dreams.

Its melody, blending wistfulness with freshness, lifts listeners’ spirits and helps them look forward.

Released digitally in March 2022 and as a CD single in May by the dance and vocal group BE:FIRST, the song was chosen as the theme for the Nippon TV morning drama “Before Saying Goodbye: Fantastic 31 Days.” Loved by many, it surpassed 200 million streams in 2024.

It sweeps away the anxiety of leaving familiar places and gives you the courage to wave with a smile.

It’s a song we especially hope graduating students—about to walk separate paths from their cherished friends—will listen to.