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 Newest Hits: A Collection of Masterpieces to Color the Moment of Parting (41–50)

A Bouquet for YouUtada Hikaru

This song is characterized by its warm vocals and lyrics that resonate deeply.

Released by Hikaru Utada in April 2016, it is known as the theme song for the NHK morning drama series “Toto Nee-chan.” Centered around piano and strings, the arrangement conveys a sense of gentleness and warmth.

The work explores themes of gratitude and parting with a loved one, and is said to reflect Utada’s feelings toward her mother.

It’s a track you’ll want to listen to at life’s turning points, such as graduations or retirements.

My friend — from here on out, forever…Ketsumeishi

Ketsumeishi “My Friend ~ From Here On Forever…”
My friend — from here on out, forever...Ketsumeishi

Ketsumeishi’s “Tomo yo ~ Kono Saki mo Zutto …” drew attention for featuring the three members of the comedy trio Dachou Club in its music video.

When Ryuuhei Ueshima, a member of Dachou Club, passed away on May 22, 2022, the MV received a flood of condolence messages.

Centered on the theme of friendship, this classic song is highly recommended for sending off someone with whom you’ve built bonds at school or work.

Perhaps it’s especially convincing because Ketsumeishi themselves have walked together for so many years.

With hopes that your friendship will continue now and always, try playing this song as your BGM!

horizonback number

There are times when you don’t know where to direct your anger, when you’re stuck with nowhere to put those feelings.

Even then, back number’s “Suiheisen” is a timeless song that gently stays by your side.

Released in August 2021, it continued to encourage high school students whose paths were disrupted by the impact of COVID-19.

It’s a tender rock number that lights a beacon of hope not just for students, but for everyone.

It’s also perfect for quietly sending off those who are chasing new dreams or beginning a second chapter in life, so be sure to check it out!

My NoteSukima Suichi

Sukima Switch – “Boku Note” Music Video: SUKIMASWITCH – BOKU NOOTO Music Video
My NoteSukima Suichi

The song chosen as the theme for the animated film Doraemon: Nobita’s Dinosaur 2006 was Sukima Switch’s “Boku Note.” The title originates from the phrase “boku no oto” (“my sound”) woven into the lyrics.

There’s an anecdote that, because it was written specifically as a theme song for Doraemon, they wanted the title to have a sound reminiscent of a secret gadget.

Although the lyrics don’t include a direct phrase like “Do your best,” it’s a gentle, comforting cheer song that naturally gives you a little push, isn’t it? It’s a track that can move anyone’s heart at any time, so consider choosing it as background music for a farewell party.

Thank youFUNKY MONKEY BABYS

FUNKY MONKEY BABYS “Thank You”
Thank youFUNKY MONKEY BABYS

A quintessentially straightforward ballad by FUNKY MONKEY BABYS, “Arigatou.” Their heartfelt message, delivered with full force in every song, adds drama to the graduation season.

The chorus progression is moving too, so it works extremely well as background music!

Our TomorrowElefanto Kashimashi

Elephant Kashimashi – “Our Tomorrow”
Our TomorrowElefanto Kashimashi

For a farewell BGM when parting with clubmates you worked hard with or coworkers, we recommend “Oretachi no Ashita,” a song that gives you courage.

It was released in 2007 by the rock band Elephant Kashimashi and was used in a commercial for House Foods’ Ukon no Chikara.

Its sentimental rock sound carries a touch of nostalgia.

The lyrics are filled with gratitude for friends and comrades, which is another highlight.

Try playing it alongside footage reflecting on your days at school or work.

Even if we forget springaibii karaa

Ivy Color [Even If We Forget Spring] Music Video
Even if we forget springaibii karaa

Here is a dramatic spring song by Ivy Color, a four-piece mixed-gender rock band.

With gentle vocals floating over the sound of an acoustic guitar, this track softly embraces the loneliness and sadness of graduation.

It might be the perfect song to give you strength at the very moment you take a new step forward.