Tear-jerking classic graduation songs! Recommended tracks for graduation movie BGM

To the futureKiroro

To the Future – Kiroro (Full)

“Mirai e” (To the Future) is a signature song by Kiroro, the singer-songwriter duo active in the 1990s.

Released in 1998, this moving track centers on the theme of a mother’s love.

Graduating is of course the result of your own hard work, but the support of those around you is also incredibly important.

Among them, the presence of the mother who has looked after you is especially significant.

This song is perfect for expressing gratitude to the mother who has raised you up to now.

It’s a warm piece that brightly illuminates the future you’re about to step into.

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Yoimachi Jēn

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Precious thingsroodo obu mejyaa

Lord of Major / Precious Things

Lord of Major is a rock band known for their exhilarating, fast-paced band sound and straightforward vocals.

Though their active years were brief, their debut song “Taisetsu na Mono” became a memorable classic for everyone.

For students who’ve forged special friendships during school life, this song will definitely hit home.

It’s a perfect pick for anyone who wants to create a lively, high-energy graduation movie with their class or school.

It would also be lovely to center the content around the theme of the “precious things” in the title.

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miyabi

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Until we meet againHirai Dai

Until we meet again

The song “Mata Au Hi Made,” which stands by you in moments of tears and gratitude, is included on Dai Hirai’s 2015 album “Slow & Easy.” Its lyrics, which turn the sadness of parting into a positive force, and his gentle vocals will deepen the emotion of a graduation movie when played.

His signature Hawaiian-flavored melodies are calm like waves lapping on a tropical shore, yet they convey a sense of strong bonds.

For graduates taking their first steps into the future, this song will surely be an everlasting cheer.

OrangeSMAP

Lefty Hand Cream - Full Cover of SMAP 'Orange'

“Orange” is a song released in 2001 by SMAP, an idol group that disbanded to much regret.

While it depicts the breakup of a student couple, its poignant lyrics have made it a staple graduation song.

It’s also often said that when you listen to it as an adult, it brings back memories of your school days and moves you to tears.

Graduation movies are something you tend to look back on after you’ve graduated, and this song is perfect for those moments of reflection.

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Yoimachi Jēn

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proofflumpool

flumpool “Proof” Music Video (Full Chorus ver.)

This song was composed as the set piece for the junior high school division of the 2011 NHK National School Music Competition, and as you can tell from the lyrics, it’s a graduation song.

In fact, it’s often sung at many schools’ graduation ceremonies and can be considered a classic of the genre.

The lyrics carry a message of supporting each other in our hearts even when we’re apart, and stepping forward toward our own dreams—something that’s sure to strike a chord when you listen just before graduating.

With a beautiful, moving ballad feel led by piano and strings, it’s also perfect as background music for things like slideshows.

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Hane Keisuke

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Sakura, Bloom!arashi

Sakura, Bloom!

This is my top pick for a graduation song that lifts you up yet moves you to tears: “Sakura Sake,” released by the national pop group Arashi in 2005.

From its digi-rock–style intro, it’s an upbeat track that instantly boosts your mood.

While it’s widely loved as an exam song packed with wishes for success, it’s also deeply touching as a graduation song that fills you with positivity.

More than the sadness of parting, it creates a bright, festive atmosphere that makes you hope for what’s ahead.

Play it in a graduation video while students and teachers look back on their memories and you might end up in tears.

You’ll laugh at the little slip-ups and relive the joyful moments.

Its playful vibe is perfect too, and it naturally brings smiles to the celebration.

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KEI

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Symphony No. 2, Movement IIISergei Rachmaninov

Tadaaki Otaka (conductor) · Tokyo Philharmonic Symphony Orchestra / Rachmaninoff: Symphony No. 2, Movement III / Orchard Hall Subscription Concert, July 21, 2014

Among the large-scale symphonies by the Russian Romantic composer Sergei Rachmaninoff, the third movement of his Symphony No.

2 is exceptionally beautiful.

Premiered in February 1908, this work became a landmark piece that helped him overcome past harsh criticism and regain his confidence as a composer.

The clarinet’s long-breathed melody seeps into the heart like an endless song, gently embraced by the warm sonorities of the strings.

Played during diploma presentations or recessional scenes, it can create a moving atmosphere befitting the children’s departure on their next journey.