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

ReunionRADWIMPS

RADWIMPS / Reunion - I tried playing it

The hugely popular rock band RADWIMPS is well known for songs like “Zenzenzense” and “Is There Still Anything That Love Can Do?”.

Their unique, philosophical take on a wide range of themes is a big reason they’re loved by people of all ages.

“Reunion” is a song in which RADWIMPS sings about friendship in a way only they can.

It’s a hidden gem that’s especially popular among fans.

Since RADWIMPS is particularly beloved by students, if you’re unsure about the BGM for a graduation video, definitely consider using this track!

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Yoimachi Jēn

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Please give me wingsakai tori

Please give me wings

“Tsubasa wo Kudasai” has long been loved as a classic graduation song.

First released in 1971 by the folk group Akai Tori, it has since become a popular choral piece—many of you may have sung it in music class.

Because it’s such a well-known standard, it’s perfect not only for group singing but also as background music for things like solo performances and slideshows.

It’s a highly versatile song that suits any era or occasion, and comes highly recommended.

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Hane Keisuke

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Only the graduation photo knowsHinatazaka46

The Only One Who Knows Is the Graduation Photo by Hinatazaka46

A song by Hinatazaka46 themed around graduation.

It gently sings of the bittersweet feelings of the cherry blossom season and the love that went unspoken.

Memories and regrets sealed in graduation photos resonate deeply, intertwined with clear, transparent vocals.

Set for release on January 29, 2025, the track features Nao Kosaka as center and will be available in five editions: limited first-press versions and a regular edition.

It was premiered at their Tokyo Dome concert on December 26, 2024.

It’s a recommended listen not only for students entering graduation season, but also for anyone who wants to reflect on past loves.

Thank you. Goodbye.Nakai Kiichi, Yoshida Naoko

Choral Piece 'Thank You, Goodbye'

This is a song first aired in 1985 on NHK’s “Minna no Uta.” In the first verse it sings about “friends,” in the second about the “classroom,” and in the third about “teachers,” expressing memories and gratitude.

Its lyrics—where graduating students thank and bid farewell to the friends, teachers, and classroom that supported them—are moving to the point of tears.

It’s a slightly bittersweet graduation song.

Secret base 〜The things you gave me〜ZONE

ZONE Secret Base ~The Things You Gave Me~ (English Subs+Romaji+Kanji)

Many people can probably relate to the bittersweet sound and the lyrics packed with memories.

It’s a summer song, but it inspires you to keep going as you dream of meeting again in ten years, just like the lyrics say.

It’s also worth noting how relatable the lyrics are for students, whether in terms of friendship or romance.

Somewhere on this EarthSakushi Miura Keiko • Sakkyoku Wakamatsu Kan

Somewhere on this Earth

“Somewhere on This Earth” is a choral piece released in 1998.

It is a song about growing from childhood to adulthood and taking new steps.

With a refreshing melody perfect for graduation and a beautiful piano accompaniment, it adds splendor to graduation ceremonies.

It is a graduation song that expresses both the sadness of parting from friends and the hope of moving toward a bright future.

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Tani Satoko

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If I turn around…Janne Da Arc

Janne Da Arc If You Turn Around... by osamu0419

It’s a very poignant song from the perspective of a man who parts ways with his girlfriend upon graduation.

Even as time passes, the scenery and memories from their school days remain unfaded in his heart, overflowing with a gentle wish for her not to forget and to stay with him forever.

It conjures up an image of cherry blossoms fluttering in the wind.