Kenshi Yonezu Graduation Songs, Entrance Ceremony Songs, and Popular Song Rankings [2026]

Gray and Blue (+Masaki Suda)Yonezu Kenshi1rank/position

Kenshi Yonezu – Gray and Blue (+Masaki Suda)

This is a track whose beautiful, fleeting sound and lyrics—portraying the aching feelings of two childhood companions who grow apart as they become adults—strike straight at the heart.

Included on singer-songwriter Kenshi Yonezu’s album BOOTLEG, released in October 2017, the song also drew major attention for featuring actor Masaki Suda as a guest vocalist.

It contrasts the past, when they laughed together without a care, with the present, as they each walk their own path.

Its message—suggesting a bond that remains deep inside no matter how much time passes—gently encourages men setting out for different places.

After graduation, when you feel anxious or lonely about a new life ahead, why not listen to it while reminiscing about an old friend?

Bye, see you again sometime!Yonezu Kenshi2rank/position

Kenshi Yonezu – Goodbye, See You Again Sometime!

This song skillfully portrays the passage of time and the changes in life.

Kenshi Yonezu’s distinctive sensibility shines through in the lyrics, weaving a story of parting, reunion, and growth.

Its message, casting thoughts toward a future 100 years from now, is sure to resonate deeply with listeners.

The track was written as the theme song for the NHK morning drama series “Tora ni Tsubasa,” which airs from April 2024.

It perfectly complements the drama’s theme—a passionate tale of the legal profession.

It’s a must-listen for those about to take a new step or standing at a crossroads in life.

Its powerful yet gentle vocals will surely give you a supportive push forward.

Eine KleineYonezu Kenshi3rank/position

Kenshi Yonezu – Eine Kleine

A poignant love song whose universal lyrics have resonated with many.

Kenshi Yonezu’s track, which depicts encounters, farewells, and human connections, weaves in shifting seasons and everyday moments to deliver a message that strikes the heart.

Featured on the album “YANKEE” and used in a Tokyo Metro commercial, the piece pairs gentle piano melodies with string arrangements that further elevate the emotion in the lyrics.

As you face a farewell with someone important, why not listen to this song and reflect on your feelings?

paprikaYonezu Kenshi4rank/position

Kenshi Yonezu – Paprika

As a song to cheer you on and help you take a strong first step into a new season of beginnings, Kenshi Yonezu’s “Paprika” is a perfect fit.

While Foorin’s version is beloved, Yonezu’s own rendition carries a slightly more mature feel with a danceable EDM beat.

It also gained popularity as NHK’s 2020 support song, and its warm melody and catchy refrain give people courage and hope, leaving unforgettable memories.

The heartwarming lyrics are loved across generations, making it an ideal song for graduations and new departures.

globeYonezu Kenshi5rank/position

Kenshi Yonezu – Spinning Globe

This is the song chosen as the theme for Hayao Miyazaki’s film “The Boy and the Heron.” It’s a moving ballad that conveys a determination to keep walking forward on one’s own feet, even while experiencing missed connections and farewells along life’s journey.

Released as a single in July 2023, it was created by Kenshi Yonezu over the course of about four years as an expression of gratitude to the director he deeply admires.

Also included on the album “LOST CORNER,” the song reflects feelings for friends who are taking a different path—feelings that will not fade even if you’re far apart.

Its vocals, like a prayer for someone dear who has gone far away, will gently encourage a new departure.

Along with all the gratitude you’ve felt up to now, why not send this song to a cherished friend?

Horse and deerYonezu Kenshi6rank/position

Kenshi Yonezu – Horse and Deer

Kenshi Yonezu’s “Uma to Shika” (“Horse and Deer”) brings back memories of those days when, clumsy as we were, we hung on and gave it everything we had.

Released in 2019, the song was chosen as the theme for the drama No Side Game.

It reminds us of the days we ran with all our might, joining forces with our teammates.

This song makes those everyday moments feel so precious.

Let it help you look back on your memories so far, and turn them into strength to move forward tomorrow.

Its emotional music is sure to grace the graduation ceremony’s send-off like a path of flowers.

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IRIS OUTYonezu Kenshi7rank/position

Kenshi Yonezu – IRIS OUT

The powerful rhythm that hints at a thrilling development feels like it’ll fire up graduates as they leap into a new world! It’s the much-talked-about track by Kenshi Yonezu, created as the theme song for the theatrical release Chainsaw Man: Reze Arc.

Written specifically for the film premiering in September 2025, it’s also drawing attention as a renewed collaboration with MAPPA, following the anime’s theme song “KICK BACK.” A behind-the-scenes story reveals he composed the song while gazing intently at Reze’s pages in the original manga—his passion for the work really comes through.

The high-velocity rock sound is guaranteed to ignite the crowd during the thank-you party entertainment or dance time.

As you set off on the adventure that is the rest of your life, why not let loose and move your body together with your friends?