[Song of Gratitude] Timeless classics and the latest tracks that convey heartfelt “thank you” to your seniors

Accompanist / Piano Instructoryuri
Accompanist pianist × piano instructor × web writer. I began piano lessons at age four and, inspired by my piano teacher, decided to pursue music. I went on to specialized music programs in high school and university, where I discovered the appeal of accompanying instrumentalists and singers. Currently, alongside teaching piano, I work mainly in my home region of Aichi as an accompanist for flute, voice, choir, and more. Through lessons, my students often introduce me to trending songs, and my hobby is trying anything on the piano—Japanese and Western pop, commercial jingles, and beyond. Since 2021, I’ve also been active as a web writer, covering music and a variety of other genres.
Deputy Editor of RAG MUSICsasashina
Deputy Editor of RAG MUSIC. JFC-certified fact-checker. I’m Sasashina, a mom currently raising an elementary schooler and a preschooler. During my student years at Kyoto College of Science and Technology, I studied a wide range of fields including sound, lighting, and video technology, building a foundation in comprehensive stage production and creative expression. After graduation, I joined a music production company, where I still work, consistently building experience in production and engaging in a variety of music-centered tasks. Currently, I mainly handle articles for children, drawing on what I’ve learned about parenting and what I feel and discover through daily interactions with my kids. I hope my work can be of help to you, even in a small way!

I want to give a heartfelt gift to the senior who supported me! You were scolded many times, taught important things, and worked together toward your goals… Surely you, too, have someone like that in your life, don’t you? When a senior graduates or retires, many of us want to express our gratitude to the fullest, yet still feel embarrassed to say it directly.

So in this article, we’ll share plenty of songs that express gratitude to seniors.

Find the song that perfectly matches your feelings, and try conveying your thanks to your senior along with the music.

[Song of Gratitude] Exquisite timeless and latest tracks (101–110) that convey a heartfelt “thank you” to seniors

Climb the staircase of dreams!kenkyuusei (SKE48)

Climb the staircase of dreams! 8th Generation + Honoka Aikawa / Narumi Kataoka Ver. (SKE48)

Climb the staircase of dreams!kenkyuusei (SKE48)

This song, performed by SKE48’s trainee members, expresses their longing for the dream stage where their seniors shine.

It might be perfect for brass band or drama club performances, which often take place on stage at competitions and recitals.

Even if the seniors we admire graduate and move on, we juniors will carry the torch—this song also works well as a declaration of that resolve.

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Thank youOKAMOTO’S

OKAMOTO’S “Arigatou” Official Music Video

Thank youOKAMOTO'S

A heartwarming birthday song filled with gratitude.

It’s the lead track from the album “4EVER,” released in January 2025, and it’s been crafted as a special piece to commemorate OKAMOTO’S 15th debut anniversary.

While rooted in rock, the sound weaves in elements of soul and funk, gently enveloping the feelings toward those who have supported them so far.

This song is perfect for expressing thanks to someone special on their birthday, and if you sing it at karaoke, your love is sure to come through loud and clear.

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Much appreciatedchīmu shachihoko

Team Syachihoko – Seriously, Thanks (LIVE from Nippon Gaishi Hall) / Team Syachihoko – Maji Kansha Live Ver.

Much appreciatedchīmu shachihoko

The idol group Team Syachihoko, inducted into the Hall of Fame by the Japan Local Idol Promotion Association and active under the name TEAM SHACHI since 2018, released the song “Maji Kansha” on the album Team Syachihoko Practical Edition, which was digitally released on July 24, 2015.

The track was selected as the theme song for the film Daily Lives of High School Boys.

Its lyrics, expressing gratitude for being able to grow while supporting one another, convey feelings that can surely be shared with seniors who have spent a long time together.

With refreshing string arrangements and a straightforward message that stirs the heart, it’s a pop tune full of breezy freshness.

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Hoshino Takashi

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how beautiful you areHamasaki Ayumi

how beautiful you are

how beautiful you areHamasaki Ayumi

Ayumi Hamasaki’s work, which gently sings of gratitude to her mother, is a heartwarming ballad that celebrates the presence of someone precious.

It gazes upon the beauty that shines within each of us, and its delicate piano melody colors a message of gratitude for the small moments of everyday life.

Included on the album “Party Queen,” it was released in February 2012 as the theme song for the Fuji TV drama “Saigo Kara Nibanme no Koi” (Second to Last Love).

The warmly affectionate music video portrays the daily lives of diverse people, filled with kindness that resonates in the viewer’s heart.

When you can’t find the words to express your gratitude to someone important, sending this song will surely convey your feelings.

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Pride feat. BESDOZAN11

BES Shibuya Reggae Festival 2011 I Want to Be by Your Side.MP4

Pride feat. BESDOZAN11

This is a song I’d love to hear sung as a duet by a senior and a junior.

While looking back on their journey so far, the lyrics have them respecting each other and expressing their gratitude, so it’s sure to be moving.

Dozan11 (formerly known as Mikidosan) has restarted under a new name.

It’s a collaboration with BES, who’s active in the Kansai reggae scene.

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