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” (21–30)
feel the windJanne Da Arc
It’s a refreshing yet slightly bittersweet rock number that sings with a forward-looking feeling toward a former lover.
It’s a song by the visual-kei band Janne Da Arc, released in 2001 as their 11th single.
Chosen as the commercial song for the game “Battle Network: Mega Man Battle Network 2,” it drew attention.
The lyrics—saying, “We can’t meet anymore, but I’m thinking of you”—set hearts racing.
If you listen to it when you’re feeling down after a breakup, it might give you the push to lift your head up.
Goodbye, my beloved.Hana＊Hana
Parting with someone you love… it’s painful, but it comes to us all.
This is the signature song of the female duo Hana*Hana, released as a single in 2000.
If you’re of that generation, you might often sing it at karaoke.
The lyrics express member Izumi Kojima’s feelings for her late grandfather.
The warm arrangement and melody, along with the straightforward, heartfelt words, are truly moving.
It’s a timeless farewell classic that deserves to be sung for generations to come.
[Farewell Songs] Tracks that sing various kinds of “goodbyes” (31–40)
Lullaby, goodbyeYonezu Kenshi
It’s a philosophical piece about bidding farewell to the world one lives in.
It’s a song by singer-songwriter Kenshi Yonezu, included as a B-side on the 2017 single “orion.” The lyrics are filled with sharp words about the distance between oneself and others and about modern society, and listening to it pierces the heart.
That said, I imagine many people feel the same way.
It’s perfect for those solitary moments when you want to take your time and think.
Beyond the GoodbyeYamaguchi Momoe
This is a classic song by Momoe Yamaguchi, an icon of the idol scene in the 1970s.
It was released as her final single just before she retired in 1980.
The lyrics express her gratitude to the fans who had supported her up to that point.
It has been covered by many famous artists and frequently used in commercials, so some of you may have discovered it that way.
Her sweet, slightly fragile voice is heart-wrenching—you could listen to it forever.
cherry blossomKobukuro
Kobukuro’s “Sakura” is a moving ballad that continues to be loved by many.
Perfect for the season of partings, the song is characterized by its heartrending lyrics and warm melody.
Like cherry blossom petals scattering, people move forward onto new paths as time goes by.
When taking that first step feels difficult, Kobukuro’s powerful vocals will give you a push.
As a message of encouragement for those graduating or starting a new chapter, this song will surely resonate in their hearts.
Since its 2005 release, it has been widely known as one of their signature songs.
YELLikimonogakari
A classic that enjoys tremendous popularity as a graduation song.
It’s one of Ikimonogakari’s signature tracks, released as a single in 2009 and specially written as the set piece for the NHK National School Music Competition’s junior high division.
Its message—that parting isn’t merely a sad event, but a chance to take the first step toward the future—resonated with many people.
Kiyoe Yoshioka’s unadorned, straightforward vocals perfectly match the feelings woven into the song.
First loveOku Hanako
As you stay in a relationship for a long time, you come to learn more and more about each other’s likes, dislikes, and quirks.
Even so, the one thing you still can’t fully grasp is the other person’s feelings.
Oku Hanako’s “First Love” sings about that kind of romantic frustration and regret.
It’s a song that will surely make you cry if you listen to it after a breakup.
