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

HarukaYOASOBI

YOASOBI 'Haruka' Official Music Video

Haruka by YOASOBI is a bittersweet yet warm melody that resonates in the season of farewells and new beginnings.

Based on Osamu Suzuki’s novel “Tsuki Oji” (Moon Prince), the song captivates listeners with Rira Ikuta’s clear, radiant vocals fused with YOASOBI’s signature pop sound.

Its message—“Thank you for so many wonderful memories”—will resonate especially with those about to graduate.

Used as background music for a graduation video, it will make the moment an even more memorable event.

Goodbyekariyushi 58

Kariyushi58 “Sayonara”

A bittersweet classic perfect for the season of farewells.

It stirs deep gratitude for days gone by and aching feelings for someone precious you’ll never meet again.

Released as a single by Kariyushi58 in February 2009, it was selected as the theme song for NTV’s Saturday drama “Zeni Geba,” earning the band their first Top 10 entry on the Oricon weekly chart.

Vocalist Shingo Maekawa’s warm voice and the distinctly Okinawan rhythm leave a strong impression.

This is a song that gently supports those who have experienced parting or lost someone dear.

Try listening while looking up at the sky—surely, your feelings will reach that special someone.

GraduationKobukuro

Kobukuro “Graduation”

Kobukuro, known for their emotionally resonant songs that touch the heart, are popular across genders and age groups.

At festivals and the like, you’re often struck by the breadth and passion of their fanbase.

Their graduation song “Sotsugyou” is a perfect example.

Released in 2020 as Kobukuro’s 31st single, it’s a track where the duo’s remarkable vocal ability vividly brings scenes to life just by listening.

It’s the kind of song that can move not only those about to graduate but anyone who’s been through it to tears.

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utatane

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CorrectRADWIMPS

RADWIMPS – The Answer [Official Live Video from “ANTI ANTI GENERATION TOUR 2019”]

Has anyone ended up falling out with a close friend and remained on bad terms? When graduation comes, you’ll be physically separated from that friend, too.

Before that happens, why not take one last chance to make up by using your graduation movie to say “I’m sorry”? Choose RADWIMPS’ song “Seikai (Answer)” as the BGM, and, along with photos of your memories together, honestly express your wish to reconcile.

If it’s really hard to say sorry yourself, try adding the lyrics as a message!

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Kado(guchi) Shichigatsu

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Dear, boyHump Back

Hump Back – “Dear, Boy” Music Video

This song by Hump Back, a three-piece girls band from Osaka, is a heartfelt message to everyone who keeps chasing their dreams.

Its passionate lyrics, urging the self who’s about to forget a once-held dream that it’s not over yet, strike a powerful chord with listeners.

Carried by a simple yet powerful rock sound, and highlighted by Momoko Hayashi’s straight, earnest vocals, this track was their major-label debut single released in June 2018, and it was also used as the ending theme for Nippon TV’s “Buzz Rhythm 02.” It’s the perfect song to listen to when parting ways with friends after graduation or when you feel anxious about a new challenge.

It will steady a wavering heart and give you a firm push forward.

treasurewacci

wacci “Treasure” (Lyric Video)

A wacci number that sings about the loneliness and anxiety you experience while chasing your dreams, and the importance of the friends who support you.

Included on the album “Kanjou Hyakkei,” released in August 2017, this song is appealing for its warm message that gently resonates with listeners.

Although it wasn’t an official tie-in, it drew significant attention when speed skater Miho Takagi named it as her “pump-up song” before competitions at the PyeongChang Olympics in February 2018.

It’s a perfect choice for a memory video featuring teammates from a school club who sweated together, or friends who worked toward the same goal.

If you string together photos of everyday smiles and memories of encouraging each other when you were close to giving up, you’ll surely be able to reaffirm those irreplaceable bonds.

A Song for a Friendsonā poketto

Sonar Pocket 'A Song for a Friend' [MV Full]

It’s a moving anthem to friendship that resonates deeply.

The lyrics, written for a friend far away, beautifully express a bond that doesn’t change even as we grow up.

Vivid depictions of childhood memories and cherished moments spent together bring listeners a sense of nostalgia and warmth.

Released in February 2009 as Sonar Pocket’s third single, it was later included on the album “Sonapokeism (1) ~The Shape of Happiness~.” It continues to comfort many people as a song they want to hear during graduation season or when reuniting with friends.