Popular Graduation Song Rankings [2026]

It’s okayji ma ma81rank/position

jimama “It’s Okay”

Many of you probably remember that gentle singing voice from the commercial! This song by jimama, a singer-songwriter from Okinawa, is a warm ballad that seems to wrap listeners’ anxieties in comfort.

The words, inspired by “the precious person who always supports you,” resonate deeply with hearts facing graduation or a new departure.

Released as a single in April 2009, it was featured in a Taiyo Yakuhin Kogyo TV commercial at the time and played in living rooms across the country.

It topped the charts in Okinawa and was rediscovered after a 2014 TV appearance, remaining a beloved classic.

It’s also included on the album “BEST OF jimama ~Kimi ni Okuru Uta~.” As spring brings changes, it’s perfect for friends who are feeling anxious.

Rather than forcing encouragement, it’s filled with a gentle presence that simply stays by your side—sing it at a farewell party or karaoke, and the whole room is sure to be wrapped in a warm atmosphere!

Sakura, Bloom!arashi82rank/position

ARASHI – Sakura Sake [Official Music Video]

When it comes to spring staples that instantly boost your mood with an energetic intro, this is the song! It’s Arashi’s single “Sakura Sake,” released in March 2005.

It was also used in a Jounan Prep School TV commercial featuring Sho Sakurai, and became widely known as an anthem for exam season.

The lyrics, filled with positive messages, and the driving band sound perfectly match graduation scenes where you take a bold first step forward.

Just listening to it brings back vivid memories of your earnest younger self and the days spent with friends, and you might find your eyes welling up before you know it.

It blows away anxiety and gives you a powerful push toward the future.

It’s the ultimate cheer song that stays by your side in those precious moments when you want to wipe away your tears and say goodbye with a smile.

Dream Deliverynaniwa danshi83rank/position

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.

Don’t give upZARD84rank/position

Don't Give Up – ZARD (Full)

This gem of a song, woven from a moving melody and a powerful message, was released to the world in January 1993 as one of ZARD’s signature works.

With a gentle, warm vocal delivery, it wraps words of encouragement for a loved one and conveys a deep affection that says, “Even if we’re far apart, my heart is by your side.” Chosen as the theme song for the drama “Shiratori Reiko de Gozaimasu!” it has continued to garner broad support, being used at various sporting events and on the 24-Hour Television charity program.

As a cheering anthem that encourages and emboldens those striving toward their dreams, it’s a staple at school events such as sports days and graduation ceremonies.

Izumi Sakai’s clear, translucent voice and the heartwarming melody offer solace to those carrying worries and give them the strength to look ahead.

My friend—now and forever…Ketsumeishi85rank/position

Friend(s), from here on and forever... / Ketsumeishi

On graduation day, taking a moment to look back on the memories and bonds you’ve shared with friends is truly irreplaceable.

Released in April 2016, this song by Ketsumeishi is a perfect friendship anthem for just such a scene.

Written as the theme song for the animated film “Crayon Shin-chan: Fast Asleep! The Great Assault on the Dreaming World,” it resonates with vows to remain friends for decades to come and a message of supporting each other in tough times.

From its piano intro that builds with strings to a chorus that surges with feeling, the arrangement creates a sense of uplift worthy of a new beginning.

Even children anxious about parting ways will, upon hearing this song, find their feelings transform into a firm belief that “we’ll always be together from here on out.”