Gratitude Song Rankings [2026]

Run Through the MemoriesMy Hair is Bad50rank/position

My Hair is Bad – Dash Through the Memories

Written as the theme song for the film “Crayon Shin-chan: Ora-tachi no Kyōryū Nikki,” I felt this track resonates with anyone who grows through repeated meetings and farewells.

Released digitally in June 2024 and closing out the album “ghosts,” it carries the message that every day that has passed connects to who we are now.

In the lyrics—Tomomi Shiiki’s first to be written with “someone else” in mind—there’s a kindness that embraces not only the happy moments but even sorrow.

It’s a warm number that tells us the time spent with that precious “you” becomes the strength to move into the future.

When you want to reaffirm your gratitude for friends and family, or when you’re feeling a bit unsure of yourself, listening to it will surely give you a push forward!

signpostFukuyama Masaharu51rank/position

Michishirube

This is a heartwarming song that expresses gratitude to one’s grandmother and ancestors.

Filled with Masaharu Fukuyama’s profound sentiments, it conveys the grand theme of the relay of life through a beautiful melody.

As we journey through life, the song allows us to feel the preciousness of life passed down from those who came before us.

Originally released in 2009, a newly rearranged version was released in February 2022.

It is recommended for those who wish to reaffirm the bonds of family and the importance of life.

The gentle vocals and resonant lyrics will kindle a warm light in the hearts of listeners.

Sakura Clear SkiesYuuri52rank/position

Sakura Clear Skies

Prompted by an email from a fan who was facing graduation without being able to make enough memories during the COVID-19 pandemic, this became Yuuri’s first-ever graduation song.

It was released digitally in February 2021 and was included on the following year’s album, “Ichi.” Set to a gentle arrangement centered on piano and strings, the lyrics express straightforward gratitude to a father, mother, and friends.

Everyday scenes—like the view by the window and the smell of home—are depicted with care, inviting moments that may overlap with each listener’s own memories.

Balancing the sorrow of farewell with hope for a new beginning, the lyrics gently support those whose hearts are full after their graduation ceremony.

It’s a song you’ll want to hear when you want to share feelings that are usually too embarrassing to express, or when you want to look back on precious time with your friends.

road; way; path; street; route; Tao (in philosophy)EXILE53rank/position

EXILE / Michi (Short Ver.)

This is a ballad that makes you want to express gratitude to the friends who stood by your side when you’re at a crossroads in life.

Released by EXILE in February 2007 as their 23rd single, the song warmly reflects on the days spent walking together, with themes of graduation and new departures.

It reached No.

1 on the Oricon Weekly Singles Chart and became the 1,000th song in Oricon history to top the chart, marking a milestone.

It was featured in MTI’s “music.jp” commercial and selected by the National Karaoke Business Association as a recommended song for the graduation season, resonating with many listeners.

First included on the album “EXILE EVOLUTION,” it was later featured on releases such as “EXILE BALLAD BEST.” Loved as a staple performed at graduation ceremonies, a choral version was also produced.

When you and your dear friends begin to walk separate paths, it gives you the courage to move forward while holding your memories close.

Even when you’re apart, your hearts remain connected.

It’s a song that makes you feel exactly that.

Nobody’s HomeONE OK ROCK54rank/position

Nobody’s Home

Nobody’s Home by ONE OK ROCK, in which vocalist Taka sings about his feelings toward his parents, is included on the 2010 album Niche Syndrome.

The song reflects on days when, despite their constant warmth and watchful care, he failed to notice and pushed them away.

Now that he’s finally able to recognize that warmth, his heart overflows with gratitude.

When we’re young, it can be hard to notice not only our father’s feelings, but our family’s as a whole.

Once you realize it as an adult, be sure to express your gratitude clearly—just like in this song.

expand_lessRaise the rankingexpand_morelower

SAKI

Report a problem

Mother’s SongYoshida Yamada55rank/position

Mother's Song / Yoshida Yamada [MUSIC VIDEO]

A love that wells up for one’s mother precisely because we’re adults now.

It’s a love song packed tight with feelings for that one irreplaceable person in the world.

It’s a track by the musical duo Yoshida Yamada, included on their fourth album, “47 (Yonnana),” released in 2016.

The unadorned vocals and gentle melody are crafted in a way that can bring tears to your eyes without you even noticing.

There are things you never paid attention to before, but one day you suddenly realize, “She did that for me.” This song embraces that feeling.

expand_lessRaise the rankingexpand_morelower

Araki Jakkan

Report a problem

rainbowSuda Masaki56rank/position

Masaki Suda 'Niji' (Rainbow)

This is Masaki Suda’s fifth single, beloved by a wide range of generations since it was chosen as the theme song for the film STAND BY ME Doraemon 2.

Released digitally in November 2020, it became a massive hit, surpassing 100 million streams.

The music video, which dramatizes the deepening of family bonds through marriage and childbirth, also drew attention.

The lyrics, reminiscent of a proposal, convey a strong determination to protect one’s family.

Listening to it while thinking of the grandparents who have always protected and supported your family will make you want to express your gratitude to them directly.