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)

TokimekiVaundy

Singer-songwriter Vaundy continues to surprise listeners with genre-defying music.

His 2021 release “Tokimeki” is a song that fits all kinds of farewell moments.

Featured in a Toyota Corolla Cross commercial, it became a hot topic.

Its rhythmic tempo conveys a sense of speed, with hints of soul and R&B influences.

The lyrics make you want to hum toward the future, so be sure to pay attention to them! The sparkling strings are also striking—perfect for those who want a bright, uplifting farewell party playlist.

Farewell Party Songs: From Hidden Gems to the Latest Hits — A Collection of Masterpieces to Color the Moment of Parting (51–60)

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!

HarukaLACCO TOWER

LACCO TOWER “Haruka” TV anime “Dragon Ball Super” ending theme song
HarukaLACCO TOWER

A poignant song that sings of feelings for someone far away.

Released in 2017 as the title track of the album “Haruka,” this piece was also used as an ending theme for the anime Dragon Ball Super.

It delicately portrays the complex emotions at the moment of parting and powerfully voices the hope of reunion.

While leveraging LACCO TOWER’s signature piano-rock elements, producer Seiji Kameda has shaped it into a more grand and open sound.

It’s a perfect farewell-song choice and ideal BGM for send-off gatherings, offering a push forward during farewells such as graduations or retirements.

March 9Remioromen

Remioromen – March 9th (Music Video Short ver.)
March 9Remioromen

Remioromen’s “March 9th,” now a classic graduation song, was actually originally written as a wedding song.

Still, the lyrics are perfect for farewell gatherings! They carry a reassuring message: even as you set off for the next place, the friends you have now will always be by your side.

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.

Don’t give upZARD

Don't give up (What a beautiful memory ~forever you~)
Don't give upZARD

For those who want to send encouragement to a loved one they’ll be apart from, the song you should play is “Makenaide.” It was released by the music unit ZARD in 1993 and is also well-known as the theme song for NTV’s “24-Hour TV: Love Saves the Earth” charity marathon.

Its catchy rock sound is irresistible—you’ll want to listen to it again and again.

The vocalist, Izumi Sakai, has a clear, translucent voice that gently pushes you toward the future.

It’s the perfect number to cheer on someone facing a turning point at work or a friend moving to Tokyo.

Your Song (Kimi no Uta)Abe Mao

Mao Abe – Your Song (Kimi no Uta) [Official Music Video]
Your Song (Kimi no Uta)Abe Mao

Released in 2019, this song by Mao Abe was used as the theme song for the film “Cheer Boys!!”.

A farewell party is an occasion to celebrate setting off from your current environment toward a new place.

The person being sent off has likely chosen their next destination themselves in order to get closer to who they want to be.

For someone departing with that kind of resolve, the lyrics of this song will surely resonate.

Even if you experience setbacks on the new path ahead, this song will serve as emotional support to help you start walking forward again.