[Graduation Song] A tear-jerking track sung by an idol! A moving piece depicting friendship and gratitude [2026]

Beyond nostalgiaNogizaka 46

Nogizaka46 “Beyond Nostalgia”

An emotional atmosphere flows from this bittersweet mid-tempo ballad themed around graduation.

As a center song for Yuki Yoda, it features a grand arrangement built on piano and strings.

In the multiverse-themed music video, an idol’s life intersects with worlds of alternative possibilities, narratively tracing her path as an artist.

Released as a digital single on February 3, 2025, and followed by the music video on February 11 of the same year, this piece has carved a new chapter in Nogizaka46’s history.

Directed by Seita Yamagishi, the MV also drew attention for its innovative use of Yoda’s first-person perspective.

As an empowering song that resonates with anyone standing at a crossroads in life, it’s sure to leave a lasting impression.

I want to become a cherry blossom tree.AKB48

[MV full] Let's Become a Cherry Tree / AKB48 [Official]

A ballad themed around graduation and parting, its gentle melody and moving lyrics resonate deeply.

Evoking the feeling of spring, the story unfolds from the perspectives of “you,” who takes the first step into a new life, and “I,” who watches over your back.

The “cherry tree” symbolizes unwavering love and support, imbued with an eternal sentiment for those setting out on their journey.

Released in February 2011, the song was also used as the theme for a Nippon TV drama and left a lasting impression on many people.

It carries a warm message that feels like a reassuring push when listened to during graduation season or at new beginnings.

I’M YOUR IDOLtakane no nadeshiko

[MV] I'M YOUR IDOL / Takane no Nadeshiko [HoneyWorks]

This song powerfully portrays the bond between idols and their fans.

Released digitally in November 2024 as Takane no Nadeshiko’s second single, it features a poppy, catchy sound and lyrics that passionately express an idol’s pride and responsibility.

With a strong message directed at fans, it conveys the joy of walking together and feelings of gratitude.

It’s a must-listen not only for idol enthusiasts but also for anyone looking for a boost of energy.

one after another; in rapid successionAnjurumu

ANGERME 'One by One, One after Another' (Promotion Edit)

Message songs themed around encounters, farewells, and change resonate deeply with listeners.

Released in April 2016 as one track of a triple A-side single, this piece uses the themes of member graduations and additions in ANGERME as its motif, offering the courage to embrace the many partings and changes that fill everyday life in a positive light.

It’s a fast-paced dance number that fuses electronic sounds with funk rhythms, and it’s a staple that always gets the crowd fired up together at live shows.

It’s also a meaningful work as it became the final single for then-member Meimi Tamura in 2016, and its innovative music video, which made extensive use of a 360-degree camera, drew significant attention.

Highly recommended for those about to take a new step forward or anyone who wants to keep moving ahead without fearing change.

orchestraBiSH

BiSH / Orchestra [OFFICIAL VIDEO]

This is a ballad with a heartwarming melody that stands out as it looks back on days gone by while gazing up at the night sky.

It’s a classic track included on BiSH’s album “KiLLER BiSH,” released in October 2016, and has been loved as one of their signature songs.

The lyrics gently portray parting with someone dear, a sense of loss, and memories that live on forever in the heart, resonating as if softly nestling close to your chest.

The grand, orchestral-like sound and the members’ vocals blend exquisitely, tenderly enveloping the listener’s heart.

Bye-Bye ShowBiSH

BiSH / Bye-Bye Show [OFFiCiAL ViDEO]

Even if you and your friends say, “Let’s stay together for life,” there’s no guarantee that promise can truly be kept.

As each of you walks toward your own dreams, a time will come when you have to take different paths.

In moments like that, this song can make you feel, “We may be apart, but I’ll always be by your side.” It’s the final single released by the idol group BiSH in 2023 before their disbandment.

Its straightforward band sound and down-to-earth vocals are deeply moving.

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Sakura PhotographHatsuboshi Gakuen

Hatsuboshi Academy “Sakura Photograph” Official Music Video (HATSUBOSHI GAKUEN – Sakura Photograph)

It’s a moving ballad perfect for the season when cherry blossoms dance.

Released in April 2025, this song is the theme for the season event “Sakura-Mau Start Line” in the game Gakuen Idolmaster.

The gentle harmonies of the trio—Liliya Katsuragi, Sayaka Shiun, and Saki Hanami—leave a lasting impression.

It’s as if the tender melody rides the spring breeze and soars into the sky.

The lyrics, which portray meetings, farewells, and irreplaceable friendship, will especially resonate with those graduating from school.

Be sure to give it a listen during cherry blossom season.