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" (1–10)
Sakura MelodyMakihara Noriyuki
It’s a song that looks back on the memories built up to this point and reaffirms the bonds between us as we stand on the verge of parting on a new journey.
It’s Makihara Noriyuki’s self-cover of a song he originally provided to the unit formed by Miliyah Kato and Shota Shimizu.
The grand, emotionally resonant sound—like the scenery unfolding before your eyes—amplifies a positive feeling toward the future.
It evokes cheers for friends setting off to their respective places, while also capturing the bittersweet ache of being separated.
fishback number
Back Number’s “fish” is a masterpiece that poignantly and beautifully sings about the pain of a heartbreak that feels like it might break your spirit.
Written from a woman’s perspective, the lyrics trace lingering attachment to a lost love, cutting straight to the heart.
It’s as if it symbolizes how we become adults each time we say goodbye.
Take your time savoring the feelings that sway between regret and sorrow, accompanied by a soothing ballad sound.
Summer loverSHISHAMO
Many people have either told a partner it’s over or been on the receiving end.
With that in mind, I’d like to introduce “Natsu no Koibito” (“Summer Lover”).
It’s a song released by SHISHAMO in 2016, depicting the casual scenes of a summer romance and the farewell that eventually arrives.
Because the decision to break up is stated clearly early in the song, the everyday moments that follow feel all the more heartrending.
The section in the latter half that portrays inner conflict, and the transition from there into an a cappella part, are especially emotional.
[Farewell Songs] Tracks that sing various kinds of “goodbyes” (11–20)
primary colorsYOASOBI
It’s a song by YOASOBI that seems to express enduring memories and the bonds we’ve built, remaining unchanged even when distance separates us.
The light, breezy sound featuring flamenco guitar-like tones is striking, conveying a strong sense of positivity.
Focusing on a reunion beyond parting, it tells a story that even if distance causes a relationship to fade, it can be reconnected through meeting again.
By firmly believing in that reunion, you can feel the bonds that tie you together and welcome a new departure with positivity.
Take Me MaybePenthouse
Please consider gifting this song to friends you’ll be parting with upon graduation.
It’s a track by the six-member coed band Penthouse, included on their first album, “Balcony,” released in January 2023.
Warm and inviting, the piece blends a band sound with the gentle timbre of piano.
A highlight is the beautiful harmony of the two vocalists, Namioka and Oshima.
Many listeners will relate to the lyric: “Even if we’re far apart, you’re always in my heart.”
Beyond the goodbyeMatsushita Kohei
Drawing on his experience in oil painting and dance, Kohei Matsushita also has a background as a painting singer-songwriter.
Sayonara no Mukou ni, released ahead of his 3rd single Nonfiction, is a song written for NHK’s Minna no Uta.
Its lyrics, which depict the farewells we encounter many times in life, still convey a message of moving forward into the future.
With a gentle vocal over a piano-featured ensemble, it’s an emotional pop tune that resonates in the heart.
Goodbye ElegySuda Masaki
Masaki Suda’s “Sayonara Elegy” is a song that, while portraying the pain of heartbreak and parting, also evokes a certain sense of nostalgia.
Written and composed by singer-songwriter Huwie Ishizaki, it’s also known as the theme song for the drama “Kiss that Kills.” Its simple, heartfelt melody doesn’t require a wide vocal range, giving it a familiar, singable quality for anyone.
The emotional guitar sound is another highlight.
The lyrics, I feel, are imbued with the strength to overcome a painful farewell and turn toward a new beginning.