Kaientai was a folk group once fronted by Tetsuya Takeda as the vocalist.
When it comes to their signature songs, “Okuru Kotoba” remains hugely popular today as a graduation song.
It’s a classic that represents the Showa era, with messages that quietly sink into the heart.
While the cover by the rock band FLOW is very famous, in fact, other artists have sung it as well!
In this article, we’ll introduce various covers of this masterpiece, so enjoy listening as you go!
- FLOW’s Support Songs and Popular Tracks Ranking [2026]
- A soothing classic for the soul: a cover of “Yasashisa ni Tsutsumareta Nara”
- “All About Youth” Popular Cover Song
- That popular voice actor is doing that song!? A roundup of cover songs by voice actors
- A classic song covered by major artists: cover versions of Spitz’s “Kaede.”
- “Romantic Flight” - Popular Cover Song
- Crying songs, tear-jerker tunes. A request of tears dedicated to you.
- Classic songs that celebrate courage. Recommended popular tracks.
- [Beyond the Goodbye] Popular Cover Song
- Nagori-yuki: Popular Cover Song
- [Showa-Era Graduation Songs] Nostalgic? Emotive? A curated selection of timeless classics loved across generations
- [A Cheer for Myself] A pep song dedicated to you who are doing your very best
- “Graduation Photo” popular cover song
Farewell Message: Popular Cover Songs
Words of FarewellFLOW

As a cover of “Okuru Kotoba,” this is arguably the most famous version and a song that helped boost FLOW’s popularity even further! When it was first released, opinions were divided about this cover, but for the younger generation, isn’t FLOW’s version the more familiar one? The upbeat rock arrangement, which makes it sound completely different from the original, is the main highlight.
Do you like this arrangement?
Words of FarewellDraft King

“Okuru Kotoba.” The original song is by Kaientai.
Draft King’s arrangement of “Okuru Kotoba” completely changes the image of Kaientai.
It kicks off upbeat and full of energy.
It’s such a cool arrangement that you might even doubt it’s “Okuru Kotoba.” It’s pure rock.
The vocalist’s voice is cute and charming, and the backing performance is wonderful, too.
It’s a track I recommend when you want to feel energized.
Words of FarewellFutami Ami (Shimoda Asami)

Kaientai’s “Okuru Kotoba” has been revived in a modern style.
Ami Futami’s arranged version of “Okuru Kotoba” features a strong VOCALOID-inspired sound.
Its distinctive voice is unforgettable after just one listen.
It’s a fun track recommended for students.
“Okuru Kotoba” is a song that can be enjoyed across generations.
Words of FarewellHEAVY HITTER Final

From the very start, the ultra-powerful HEAVY HITTER Final delivers “Okuru Kotoba.” It features a heavy metal-style arrangement, with fast tempo and a cool, driving drum rhythm.
The vocals have a very distinctive style that draws you in.
It’s a cool arrangement of “Okuru Kotoba” that’s highly recommended for male singers.
Words of FarewellUeto Aya

“Okuru Kotoba” starts with a lovely melodica intro.
Aya Ueto sings it sweetly and cutely.
The drum beat and melodica tone make for a wonderful arrangement.
Aya Ueto’s voice is bright and energetic.
It even has a slightly rock-like feel, giving you a big boost of energy.
It’s a track that seems perfect for listening when you’re feeling down to get your power back.
Words of FarewellŌhashi Torio

Okuru Kotoba.
The original song is by Kaientai.
Ohashi Trio’s mellow arrangement warms the heart.
It’s a lovely number that makes great use of the piano.
There’s a gentle rhythm with piano and drums, and vocals that feel like they’re speaking to you.
It’s a soothing track perfect for a quiet afternoon—enjoy it with a cup of tea and let yourself relax.
Words of FarewellKai Yoshihiro

Yoshihiro Kai’s cover of Kaientai’s “Okuru Kotoba.” With just piano accompaniment, Kai sings as if whispering.
It’s lovely.
His gently spoken singing soothes the heart.
The piano-only backing is full of highlights.
A wonderful arrangement of “Okuru Kotoba.” Please give it a listen.
In conclusion
I introduced some covers of Kaientai’s signature song “Okuru Kotoba.” The original has a very slow tempo and a mellow vibe, but there were all kinds of versions—from intense rock arrangements to clever twists that make you think, “Didn’t see that coming!” It’s a timeless classic that’s still being sung today, so be sure to enjoy the various artists’ covers as well.


