RAG MusicFriendship Songs
A lovely friendship song

A roundup of Japanese rock friendship songs: bands’ tunes about friends

There are lots of songs about friendship in the Japanese music scene, aren’t there?

Among them, can you think of any friendship songs by Japanese rock bands?

In this article, we’ll showcase a wide selection of friendship-themed songs released by bands over the years!

It’s perfect not only for those looking for music to listen to day-to-day, but also for anyone searching for songs to perform at a school festival or graduation live show.

As you listen, pay attention not only to the lyrics but also to the performance aspects of each track, and find your favorite song!

A roundup of Japanese rock friendship songs: Bands’ songs about friends (11–20)

dear my friendHi-STANDARD

This song captivates with its fast-paced melodic hardcore sound and heartwarming lyrics about friendship and reunion.

It powerfully expresses the joy of living and the unchanging strength of bonds, even when apart.

Featured on Hi-STANDARD’s album “MAKING THE ROAD,” released in June 1999, the track became a major hit, selling over one million copies in Japan and abroad.

With energetic guitar riffs and highly message-driven lyrics celebrating friendship and the joy of reuniting, it has won the hearts of many listeners.

It’s a moving choice for a friend’s birthday or wedding gift, as well as for those memorable moments of reconnecting with a longtime friend.

Dear My FriendsHi-STANDARD

This is a friendship song by Hi-Standard, a rock band whose high-performance band sound has captivated even middle-aged and older listeners.

Its powerful lyrical world stirs deep emotion, making it a track you can experience as a moving song with moments that may bring you to tears.

Bye, my friendbokura.

bokula. – By My Friend - [Official Music Video]
Bye, my friendbokura.

bokula.

is a four-piece rock band that made their major debut in 2023, winning support from younger audiences with music that feels true to life.

Their song “By My Friend,” included on their second mini-album ‘Living, Close Beside.,’ has become a fan favorite with over 1.5 million views on YouTube.

Its lyrics tell a story that suggests how both the fun times and the sad times all turn into precious memories—something many people may have felt at graduation.

With a striking guitar riff and a tight ensemble, it’s a comfortable, rockin’ tune you’ll want to sing with your friends at karaoke.

FriendKetsumeishi

This is a representative friendship song by Ketsumeishi, a rap band popular across a wide range of generations, celebrating their deep bonds of friendship.

The memorable chorus sounds incredibly heartrending and is absolutely great.

It’s one of the friendship songs often sung during graduation season.

Friendgagaga supi

Gagaga SP 'Tomo yo' (Friend)
Friendgagaga supi

A punk tune that passionately and energetically sings of heartfelt thoughts and gratitude for friends.

Released in May 2013 by Gagaga SP, a band based in Kobe, this rock number was also selected as the opening theme for the TV Tokyo anime Mushibugyō.

The lyrics, which straightforwardly express feelings for friends who chased their dreams with all they had in their youthful days, leave a strong impression.

It’s recommended as a song to give when you want to convey thanks to a dear friend, or for milestone events such as graduations and weddings.

KizunaORANGE RANGE

This is a song by ORANGE RANGE that powerfully celebrates the bonds of friendship.

Released in August 2005, it became widely loved as the theme song for TBS’s Sunday drama “Be With You.” Paired with the show’s moving story, the track resonated deeply with viewers.

The lyrics, filled with the resolve to “keep moving forward one step at a time,” carry a message of overcoming any hardship together with your friends.

It’s perfect for moments when you want to feel the strength of friendship or need encouragement.

Be sure to listen to it with someone important to you.

A roundup of Japanese rock friendship songs: Bands playing songs about friends (21–30)

Our TomorrowElefanto Kashimashi

Elephant Kashimashi – “Our Tomorrow”
Our TomorrowElefanto Kashimashi

This is a friendship song by Elephant Kashimashi that delivers a live feel through energetic, fast-paced band performance.

It’s a piece that conveys a solid sense of camaraderie and perfectly suits the cheerful atmosphere of spring high school baseball.