Farewell Songs: Tracks that sing various kinds of “goodbyes”
In life, we encounter many kinds of farewells: breaking up with a lover, parting ways with beloved friends and mentors when moving on to further studies or a new job, and even losing precious family members.
Some farewells are sad, while others are hopeful—but saying “goodbye” is always tinged with loneliness.
In this article, we’ll introduce songs that capture the feeling of “goodbye” and gently accompany your heart.
From songs that heal the wounds of heartbreak to songs that cheer you on at a new beginning, we’ve picked out tracks that sing about all kinds of farewells.
Find the one that perfectly fits your situation!
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[Farewell Songs] Tracks that sing various “goodbyes” (81–90)
Goodbye, BystanderYU-KI
This is YUKI’s 31st single, released in 2017.
It was written as the opening theme for the NHK anime March Comes in Like a Lion.
“Bystander” is a term that refers to a companion or discoverer who happens to be present at an emergency scene.
Goodbye, Strangerkururi
Kururi’s “Goodbye Stranger” vividly captures the poignant moment of parting.
The song likens the irresistible urge to recall a former lover—now like a mirage—to the stifling heat of summer.
Under the dazzling sun, its melody resounding in places steeped in memory will strike deeper the more farewells you’ve known.
A work where the loneliness of summer’s end intertwines with a certain nostalgia, it’s a highly recommended track that’s sure to resonate with many hearts.
Goodbye OceanSugiyama Kiyotaka
This is Kiyotaka Sugiyama’s first solo single, released in 1986 after the breakup of the original Omega Tribe.
It was used as the commercial song for DyDo Drinco’s “DyDo Jonian Coffee,” in which Sugiyama himself appeared.
The track became a smash hit, reaching No.
4 on the Oricon Weekly chart and No.
3 on both The Best Ten and Top Ten, and it went on to become one of Sugiyama’s signature songs.
Season farewellToukyou Jihen
This is a song included on Sports, the album released in 2010 by Tokyo Jihen, the band formed by Ringo Sheena.
Its jazzy piano, thrilling arrangement, and fast-paced melody make it a superb masterpiece.
Among songs that take “farewell” as their theme—which are often ballads—this might be considered an outlier.
Goodbye Busyuzu
A gem of a love song that gently wraps farewells and reunions in an acoustic sound.
It’s a heartwarming track you’ll want to listen to as spring arrives.
The protagonist’s hidden feelings and regrets are portrayed over a tender, bittersweet melody.
Yuzu’s refreshing vocals continue to resonate with those experiencing springtime goodbyes.
Released in March 1999 and included on the album “Yuzuen,” it was also featured as an insert song in the NHK morning drama series “Yanchakure,” capturing fans’ hearts.
It’s a song we hope those parting from someone dear, just before starting a new chapter in life, will listen to.
As a spring anthem that gives you the courage to take a step toward the future, it comes highly recommended.
Good-bye to YesterdayHirai Dai
It’s an emotional ballad that leaves a refreshing impression, like the sky after the rain.
Released by Dai Hirai in June 2024, it was unveiled as the first installment of his ongoing release project, “LUCKY BAG.” The song portrays the resolve to move forward after heartbreak, with a grand sound arrangement that stands out.
Hirai’s characteristically warm vocals and lyrics that resonate deeply are truly captivating.
The feeling you get after overcoming sadness is like the sky clearing up… each word of the lyrics tugs at the heartstrings.
This work is sure to comfort those who have experienced a breakup and give them the courage to look ahead.
Farewell Songs: Tracks that sing various kinds of “goodbyes” (91–100)
Bye, see you again sometime!Yonezu Kenshi
A fantastical, atmospheric soundscape gently reaches deep into your ears.
Written as the theme song for the NHK morning drama series “Tora ni Tsubasa,” this work is scheduled to be released on streaming services starting April 8, 2024.
As the lyrics “I want to meet you a hundred years from now” suggest, it portrays changes and growth in human relationships that transcend time.
You can feel a powerful sense of moving forward amid partings and reunions, and the cycles of life.
Overlapping with the protagonist’s struggles in the legal world, it’s likely to become a song that gives listeners a supportive push.