Friendship songs to listen to in March: introducing graduation songs and songs of gratitude to friends

Precious friendSakushi: Itsumi Ryūichirō / Sakkyoku: Furukawa Tatsuya

Dear Friends – <Graduation Song> [Japanese Songs / Shoka]

Here’s an introduction to a moving song that’s being performed more and more often at kindergarten graduation ceremonies.

The lyrics were written by Ryuichiro Henmi, an active video director, and the music was composed by Tatsuya Furukawa, known in the game music world.

Created in 2009 as part of Benesse’s kindergarten graduation support campaign, the song was sung in the 2013 school year by children at 5,071 kindergartens nationwide—about 250,000 kids—and its cumulative CD shipments have surpassed one million.

The lyrics weave in specific episodes from kindergarten life—like getting back up after falling during a sports day thanks to friends’ cheers, or making up after a fight—which deeply resonate.

It was also used in a TV commercial in 2014, bringing it into many homes alongside touching graduation scenes.

With a bright melody tinged with a hint of poignancy, the tune suits a wide range of moments, from entrance music to slideshow background tracks.

It’s a perfect song for a graduation ceremony where you want to express gratitude to friends and teachers.

Best friendSnow Man

The official lyric video for “Best Friend” from the 9th single “Dangerholic” is now streaming! #SnowMan #BestFriend #Dangerholic #Sunotube

How about a heartwarming song that straightforwardly expresses gratitude to an irreplaceable best friend? Featured on the standard edition of the single “Dangerholic,” released in September 2023, this track is a friendship song performed by Snow Man.

It conveys a heartfelt “thank you” to a friend who stayed by your side without saying a word when you were worn out by everyday life and hurt by what others said.

The relay-like structure in which the nine members take turns singing conveys a strong bond and gentleness.

It’s a perfect classic for telling a friend who’s heading down a different path the appreciation that’s usually too embarrassing to say out loud.

If everyone sings it together on the milestone day of graduation, holding past memories close, it will surely become a lifelong treasure you’ll never forget.

Graduation Song ~Let Me Say Thank You Over and Over~GReeeeN

Sotsugyounouta Arigatouha Nanndomo Iwasete

I wish I could stay like this forever, but I have to set off…

This is a message song that sings of the bittersweet feelings and gratitude right before graduation.

Created by GReeeeN, it’s the coupling track to the single “Aisubeki Ashita, Isshun to Isshō o,” released in March 2014, and it’s also included on the best-of album “C, D desu to!?”.

It was featured in an AOKI commercial, cheering on the first steps into a new chapter of life.

Carried by a refreshing, warm melody, the straightforward lyrics make you want to say “thank you” over and over again, striking straight to the heart.

The harmony woven by the four voices is moving, making it a perfect song for a slideshow of memories with friends or an Instagram story to express your gratitude.

spring melancholyMrs. GREEN APPLE

Mrs. GREEN APPLE – Spring Melancholy

Mrs.

GREEN APPLE delivers a deeply personal song written the day after a graduation ceremony.

It’s a heartwarming track that carefully weaves together the transience of youth and the preciousness of everyday life.

Set to a subtly wistful melody, it portrays time spent with friends in high school, the sadness of parting, and the difficulty of being honest with one’s feelings—beautifully capturing the complex emotions of adolescence that everyone experiences.

Released to the world in February 2018 as the B-side to the single “Love me, Love you,” it was also featured in a commercial for Suntory’s Craft Boss.

Embracing all who cherish everyday life, this work gently rekindles memories you want to keep tucked away in your heart.

It’s sure to resonate not only with high school students in the midst of their youth, but also with anyone who nostalgically looks back on their school days.

JourneyFuji Kaze

Fujii Kaze – Tabiji (Official Video)

A gem of a ballad by Fujii Kaze that likens life to a journey, wrapping reflections on past mistakes, the importance of learning, and an unchanging state of heart in his gentle, warm vocals.

It has a nostalgic atmosphere and a pleasant sound, as if you’re flipping through a photo album of your youth.

Released digitally in March 2021, the song was written as the theme for TV Asahi’s Thursday drama “Nijiiro Carte.” It is also included on the album “LOVE ALL SERVE ALL,” showcasing Fujii’s kindness and deeply human expressiveness to the fullest.

Highly recommended for anyone starting a new chapter in life or looking back on memories with dear friends.

Dance of YouthSenchimirimentaru

センチミリメンタル “Seishun no Enbu” Music Video

A powerful, supportive song by Centimillimental that portrays the preciousness of friendship and emotional growth.

It vividly depicts moving forward step by step with cherished friends—through tears, laughter, and even stumbles.

Released in May 2021, this track is an upbeat tune where a gentle melody, like being wrapped in warm light, intertwines with a driving beat.

When you want to express gratitude to the friends who have stood by you in life’s important moments, sending this song with heartfelt feelings will surely resonate with them.

Sakura Clear SkiesYuuri

Yuuri “Sakurabare” Lyric Music Video (1-chorus ver.)

A work by Yuuri that gently depicts precious memories and gratitude nestled in everyday life.

The refreshing tones of piano and strings brilliantly capture the clear air of spring.

It is a gem of a melody that delicately weaves the complex emotions that arise at the milestone of graduation—something everyone experiences—from the perspectives of gratitude toward family and the mix of anticipation and anxiety for the future.

After its digital release in February 2021, its warm vocals and powerful message resonated with many listeners, and it was also included on the album “Ichi.” It’s a perfect song not only for graduation season, but also for times when you want to express thanks to someone important or when you’re taking a new step in life.