RAG MusicGraduation
A lovely graduation song

[Farewell Party Songs] From hidden gems to the latest hits: a collection of classics to color the moment of parting

Many people likely hold farewell parties during the season of goodbyes and send-offs at schools and workplaces—whether for graduations, retiring from clubs and circles, transfers, or resignations.

Music is essential for these moving moments! Some of you may be struggling to choose background music to liven up the atmosphere or songs to accompany videos played at the venue.

In this article, we’ve carefully selected Japanese songs that are perfect for farewell parties where gratitude and congratulations are shared.

They’re all classic tunes befitting a fresh send-off, so please use them as a reference.

[Farewell Party Songs] From hidden gems to the latest hits: a collection of masterpieces to color the moment of parting (71–80)

Thank youikimonogakari

Arigatou – Ikimono-gakari (Full)
Thank youikimonogakari

This song by Ikimonogakari is a classic and extremely popular choice for farewell parties and graduation songs.

As the title suggests, it’s a standout recommendation when you want to express your gratitude at a send-off.

Plus, because it was used as the theme song for the NHK morning drama “Gegege no Nyobo,” its name recognition spans generations.

It’s a reliable, go-to track you can choose with confidence for sending off anyone, from younger people to those senior to you.

C.h.a.o.s.m.y.t.h.ONE OK ROCK

ONE OK ROCK 「C.h.a.o.s.m.y.t.h.」
C.h.a.o.s.m.y.t.h.ONE OK ROCK

This song, included on the 2011 album Zankyo Reference, remains a popular graduation track.

The title “C.h.a.o.s.m.y.t.h.” is said to be formed from the initials of vocalist Taka’s close friends, and the song was written when they were all becoming working adults.

The lyrics, which convey a powerful sense of the bond that says, “Even if we go our separate ways, we’ll always be friends,” are moving.

It’s an especially recommended song for a colleague’s transfer or job change.

Bond.haji→

Hajime’s “Kizuna” is a passionate friendship song that celebrates the deep bond between close friends.

Doesn’t it make you think of that best friend you’ve known for years—the one with whom you accept each other’s strengths and flaws? Of course, since the theme is “bonds,” it’s also a wonderful fit for lovers, family, teammates, and coworkers.

The conversational lyrics feel familiar, and above all, the straightforward message will pierce anyone’s heart.

It’s highly recommended as a song to send to a best friend when your paths or workplaces diverge, so be sure to check it out.

[Farewell Party Songs] From Hidden Gems to the Latest Hits: A Collection of Masterpieces to Color the Moment of Parting (81–90)

lightly; nimbly; flutteringlyŌhara Sakurako

Sakurako Ohara – Hirari (Music Video YouTube ver.)
lightly; nimbly; flutteringlyŌhara Sakurako

Here is Ohara Sakurako’s moving ballad song, “Hirari.” Its delicate, fleeting tone—just like the title—adds to its charm.

Her emotionally rich vocals are a perfect match for the warm, embracing lyrics.

The piano accompaniment evokes a graduation ceremony, heightening the song’s sense of presence.

It’s a track that celebrates new beginnings and gently gives you a push forward.

Best FriendNishino Kana

Kana Nishino 'Best Friend (short ver.)'
Best FriendNishino Kana

“Best Friend” is the perfect song for expressing gratitude when parting ways with people you’ve spent time with at school or work.

Sung by female artist Kana Nishino and released in 2010, it was chosen as the official campaign song for NTT Docomo’s “Ganbare Jukensei ’09–’10.” It’s a mid-tempo number featuring moving strings and rich orchestral tones.

Her gentle yet powerful vocals carry the song’s message-driven lyrics.

Play it or sing it at a farewell party for friends who are going their separate ways to strengthen your bond.

Thank youSMAP

Thank You – SMAP (cover)
Thank youSMAP

“Arigatou” is the perfect song for a farewell party for SMAP.

The lyrics fully convey feelings of gratitude.

It’s a popular choice for expressing thanks across a wide range of generations and has often been used as a theme song on many TV programs.

It’s a classic that’s just right as BGM for a farewell gathering.

CorrectRADWIMPS

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

This song was created for 18-Fes, an event held in 2018 for the 18-year-old generation, and it’s a perfect fit for graduation scenes or moments when young people set off to take on new challenges! First, I’d like you to take your time reading the lyrics: they convey the determination to embark on a journey to find your own answers, a message that will surely nourish those standing at a new threshold.

If you make a message video set to this song to express your support, it will definitely be appreciated.