[Instagram Reels] Moving J-POP and Heart-Touching Classics Perfect for Graduation Season [2026]

allyGReeeeN

Mikata

This work expresses gratitude for those who are always by our side and support us.

It was created by GReeeeN, a vocal group known for all its members holding dental licenses.

Written as the theme song for the 2022 film “Haw,” it’s included on the album “Rockin’ Beats.” Set to a warm, acoustic sound, it sings about the everyday moments and bonds shared with loved ones.

The lyrics, which portray the value of standing by someone’s side, make for a moving accompaniment to scenes reflecting on school memories before graduation.

Consider using it as BGM when creating a memory video that celebrates the bonds between friends and teammates.

proofflumpool

flumpool “Proof” Music Video (Full Chorus ver.)

A song by flumpool, a four-member rock band known for their refreshing vocals and strong messages.

Released as a single in September 2011, it is also included on their fourth album, “experience.” It’s also known for having been created as the compulsory piece for the Middle School Division of the 78th NHK All-Japan School Music Competition.

The lyrics, which capture the days spent with friends, the bonds you’ve forged, and the resolve to move forward into the future, make it perfect for the major milestone of graduation.

Its grand, warm melody—beloved as a choral piece—will lend a moving touch to each photo and video.

It’s an excellent choice for the background music of a movie filled with memories of your club activities and classmates.

Precious thingsroodo obu mejyaa

Lord of Major / Precious Things

A signature number by Road of Major that powerfully sings of irreplaceable bonds with friends and the bittersweet pain of parting.

Released as an indie single in August 2002, it set an astounding record by staying in the Oricon Top 10 for 19 consecutive weeks.

It’s also known for being completed by members who had been brought together for a TV show project, after enduring a grueling tour with their breakup on the line.

Their passionate spirit crossed the sea, and in 2009 the song was even used in a Taiwanese commercial.

Its driving rock sound and warm melody make it perfect as BGM for a graduation video when you want to express gratitude without getting too sentimental.

Revisit this classic—also included on the album “ROAD OF MAJOR”—alongside your cherished memories with dear friends.

Because we’re friends.Ochiai Wataru

Wataru Ochiai – Because We’re Friends (Music Video)

Singer-songwriter Wataru Ochiai, whose warm voice and down-to-earth words resonate with many listeners.

Perfect for graduation season, “Tomodachi Yakarane” is a friendship song written in unpretentious language with a touch of Kansai dialect.

Its warm message—that even if you’re apart, the relationship doesn’t end—helps ease the sadness of parting.

Released as a digital single in February 2022, the song was also chosen as the tie-up track for Tokyo Dome City Attractions’ spring event “Welcome, Graduates 2023.” The lyrics, sprinkled with concrete memories from student days, are sure to awaken each listener’s own recollections.

How about giving it to a friend who’s graduating to convey your unchanging bond?

spring skySuzuki Suzuki

【Graduation】Spring Sky – Suzuki Suzuki【Official Music Video】

This is a ballad by the brother duo Suzuki Suzuki, featuring beautiful harmonies that resonate deeply.

Written in down-to-earth language, the song captures the anxiety and excitement of leaving your hometown at graduation to head somewhere new, along with the sadness of parting.

Rather than pushing you forward, its appeal lies in the gentle warmth that softly stays by your side through shifting emotions, making it a supportive companion for anyone starting a new chapter.

Released digitally in February 2022, it is also included on the album “313.” The music video drew attention for featuring popular video creators, and karaoke service DAM even ran a scoring battle campaign, offering not just a listening experience but plenty of ways to enjoy singing it as well.

Give it a listen when you’re bidding farewell to a dear friend, or as a cheer for yourself.

Dear,Snow Man

Dear,

A moving song from Snow Man, the now nationally beloved idol group known for their acrobatic dance and diverse personalities.

Included on their first best-of album, THE BEST 2020‑2025, released in January 2025, it’s a warm medium-tempo ballad that expresses gratitude to fans on their fifth anniversary.

The gentle piano and strings that seem to wrap you in a hug make it perfect for Instagram Stories that look back on memories with mentors and friends.

Centered on the themes of overflowing love and bonds, this track can convey your appreciation even more deeply when played over a simple slideshow of everyday photos.

It’s a number you’ll want to add as a message to someone special, one that leaves warmth rather than sadness during the season of farewells.

Go, Sakura! / Cheer up, Sakura!THE SUPER FRUIT

THE SUPER FRUIT – Sakura Fure Fure [Official Music Video]

THE SUPER FRUIT is a boy group from Tsubasa Danshi Production.

Their second single, “Sakura Fure Fure,” released in March 2023, features a high-energy band sound that evokes the arrival of spring.

True to its title—which layers the image of “falling cherry blossoms” with the cheer of “fure fure” (go, go!)—it’s a gentle push forward during a season when anxiety and excitement about new beginnings are intertwined.

The song was selected as the ending theme for Nippon TV’s “Buzz Rhythm 02” for March 2023 and is also included on the album “Aoi Kajitsu” (Blue Fruit).

Its message—that it’s okay to bloom in your own time, without rushing—will likely resonate deeply with those embarking on a new path after graduation.

Just like the memorable visuals featuring pink school uniforms, try using it as background music to brighten commemorative photos with friends.