For Your Karaoke Picks! Recommended Graduation Songs Sung by Male Artists [2026]

When I turn around…Janne Da Arc

Janne Da Arc – If I Turn Around…

If you’re in your 30s or older, you probably know this as a classic graduation song: released in February 2006 as Janne Da Arc’s 25th single.

It was chosen as the theme song for the film HIRAKATA, in which the band members also appeared, and has the story of being officially recorded and released in response to passionate fan requests—a renowned ballad.

The song expresses the pain of parting with dear friends and a forward-looking message of meeting again with a smile someday, resulting in a nostalgic and grand rock number.

Yasu’s expansive vocals and the heart-stirring melody are sure to bring listeners to tears.

It’s a song you’ll want to sing with all your heart as you look back on memories together during the season of farewells!

Primal.THE YELLOW MONKEY

THE YELLOW MONKEY – Primal.

Do you know a rock track perfect for graduation season, where a hint of melancholy drifts beneath a glamorous sound? It’s a song by THE YELLOW MONKEY, one of Japan’s leading rock bands.

Released in January 2001 as their 24th single just before the band went on hiatus, it had no tie-in at the time, yet became a long-running hit thanks to its timeless appeal.

It’s included on releases such as the album “GOLDEN YEARS Singles 1996-2001.” During their 2016 reunion tour, it was performed as the opening number, serving as a bridge between the end of the past and a new beginning.

With its rich, layered production featuring Tony Visconti, just singing it will give you a rush of exhilaration.

Why not channel Kazuya Yoshii’s sultry style and sing it for a friend embarking on a new chapter?

Dear，Snow Man

Dear,

Snow Man, who captivate fans with performances that blend high-level dance skills and acrobatics.

This is a heartwarming ballad included on their first best-of album, “THE BEST 2020 – 2025,” released in January 2025, written as a message of gratitude to their fans.

It’s filled with feelings for the people who have supported them over the five years since their debut, and its gently spoken melody really resonates in your heart.

The lyrics overflow with straightforward words of thanks, making it perfect for expressing your feelings to teachers and friends during graduation season.

With a comfortable mid-tempo that’s easy to sing, it’s ideal when you want to perform with sincerity.

Choose it as the closing song at karaoke with your closest friends, and you’re sure to end the night wrapped in a warm, heartfelt atmosphere!

Dream Deliverynaniwa danshi

Naniwa Danshi “Yume Watashi” ~from Naniwa Danshi First Arena Tour 2021 #NaniwaDanshiShikaKatan~

Naniwa Danshi is a sparkling, Kansai-born idol group brimming with charm.

The song they perform here is a heartwarming mid-tempo number that was selected as the 2021 “ABC Summer High School Baseball Support Song” and the theme for “Netto Koshien.” It was also included on their single “Ubu Love,” released in November 2021, and their album “1st Love,” released in July 2022.

The lyrics portray dreams that can be realized precisely because you’re not alone and the preciousness of connecting feelings with your companions—making it perfectly suited to the milestone of graduation.

Sing it at karaoke with friends who are setting off on different paths, and the flood of memories will surely give you courage.

It’s a song that gently nudges you forward as you take a new step.

I won’t let you say goodbye.B’z

I won't let you say goodbye.

This is the song that blows away the sadness of farewells during graduation season and fills you with a positive spirit.

Though it’s not a single but an album track by the nationally beloved B’z, it has remained a cherished classic among fans for many years.

The lyrics, which refuse to make parting eternal and convey a strong will that “we’ll meet again,” resonate deeply through Tak Matsumoto’s melodies and Koshi Inaba’s powerful vocals.

Included on the album RUN released in October 1992, it even ranked 8th in the 2008 fan-voted best-of list—proof of its unquestionable popularity.

It’s not just for quiet reflection; it’s perfect for the moment when you want to move on to the next stage with your friends, smiling—so belt it out with all your heart!

Sparkle, sparkle!Kishidan

Kishidan – Kira Kira!

Kishidan is a band performing in their own unique style called Yank Rock.

Released in February 2004, this song has long been loved as a graduation-season staple.

While painting scenes of classrooms and desks, it doesn’t just dwell on memories—it’s infused with a strong will to charge into the future.

Rather than a somber farewell, its fiery message makes you want to raise your voice and sing with your friends, giving powerful support to anyone setting off on a new path.

Also included on the album “TOO FAST TO LIVE TOO YOUNG TO DIE,” the track features parts perfect for group singing, making it ideal for livening up a karaoke session.

When you want to blow away anxiety and loneliness and graduate with a smile, link arms with your friends and sing it together!

If I Could Become a StarMr.Children

If I Could Become a Star by Mr.Children

This Mr.

Children song gives a powerful push to those standing at a crossroads, leaving the familiar town behind to chase their dreams.

It’s a track from their second album, “Kind of Love,” released in December 1992.

Though not a single, it enjoys immense popularity among fans as a live staple.

It was also used as an insert song in the 1994 drama “Wakamono no Subete,” profoundly stirring the hearts of young people at the time.

The lyrics, which convey a strong resolve to leap into a new world while carrying loneliness, quietly set listeners’ hearts ablaze.

It’s the perfect song to belt out at karaoke during farewell season, pledging to reunite with friends someday.