[2026] Graduate with a Smile! Recommended Uplifting Graduation Songs

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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People and PeopleYugeda Kensuke

"Hito to Hito" (Lyrics: Tomohiro Iwai, Music: Kensuke Yugeda, Performance: Toin Gakuen Elementary School) — a choral piece for a music concert

This is a warm piece that sings about the importance of encounters through music.

The fresh melodies woven by Kensuke Yugedate carry a gentle calm while conveying a moving message.

In clear, resonant words, it speaks of the joy born from human connections and the inevitable meaning hidden within chance meetings.

Delivered by the pure voices of the Toin Gakuen Elementary School Choir, the work is also slated to appear in elementary school music textbooks starting in 2024.

Its kind, uplifting message is perfect for children who are about to meet new people in a new environment.

As they take their next step in school life, this wonderful song will give them courage and hope—please give it a listen.

Sky-blue DaysSHISHAMO

SHISHAMO “Sky-Blue Days”

Among the songs by SHISHAMO, a girls’ rock band popular with younger generations, there are several graduation-themed tracks, but this mid-tempo one in particular has that refreshingly signature SHISHAMO feel.

True to guitar rock, the crisp, slightly overdriven guitar sound is really pleasing.

On the other hand, the lyrics dwell on the sadness of parting with one’s school life at graduation.

Many listeners will relate to the lines about wanting to etch this scenery into their memory until the very last moment!

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Hane Keisuke

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Until we meet againHirai Dai

Until we meet again

A number whose beautiful ukulele and piano tones, along with Dai Hirai’s clear, crystalline vocals, resonate deep in the heart.

It’s a bittersweet farewell song about two people who, from this day on, have decided to walk their separate paths.

Yet it doesn’t just dwell in sadness—you can feel their resolve to face forward.

Partings are something that will come someday, and they are lonely.

Even so, it’s precisely because of that encounter that we are who we are now, and having someone with whom we could share those happy times is something to be grateful for.

It’s a heartwarming track filled with that kind of joy.

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hiyori

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Nostalgic FutureKamishiraishi Mone

Mone Kamishiraishi “Natsukashii Mirai” (Lyrics/Composition: Naotaro Moriyama) Music Video

It’s a song filled with hope, looking toward the future with a smile.

While cherishing past memories, it gives you the courage to take a new step forward.

Released on New Year’s Day 2022, this piece was created as the official support song for the 100th National High School Soccer Championship.

Its lyrics resonate not only with soccer players but with everyone striving toward their dreams.

Mone Kamishiraishi’s clear, pure voice seems to gently push listeners forward.

It’s a perfect song for graduation season or for anyone feeling anxious about a new environment.

graduation ceremonySARD UNDERGROUND

SARD UNDERGROUND “Graduation Ceremony” MV

If you’re looking for a song to celebrate graduation with a smile, we recommend this bright, message-filled track by SARD UNDERGROUND.

Its lyrics, which capture hope for the future along with a touch of anxiety, resonate deeply.

Set in cherry-blossom-tinted moments, it’s a piece that lets you feel both the beauty and the bittersweetness of youth.

Released in February 2023, the song’s warm atmosphere gently nudges graduates forward.

It’s perfect not only for listening on graduation day, but also as an encouraging anthem for anyone taking a new step.

Good Bye,Good LuckTOTALFAT

TOTALFAT　『Good Bye, Good Luck』（Short ver.）

The punk rock band TOTALFAT’s song powerfully expresses both parting and new beginnings.

It’s a track that helps you overcome loneliness and anxiety, giving you the courage to look ahead and move forward.

Released in January 2012 as the opening theme for the TV Tokyo anime Naruto (original series), it captured the hearts of many viewers.

This piece is recommended for those who, before graduation ceremonies or the start of a new chapter, want to reflect on past memories while holding hope for the future.

It also works perfectly as a bright, uplifting graduation song that helps you keep smiling and face forward.