Popular and recommended graduation songs on YouTube Shorts: a special feature of memorable classics

Letter ~To You, Fifteen~Anjura Aki

Angela Aki “Letter: To You, Fifteen” Music Video (HD)

This song, which begins with the gentle sound of piano, is based on a letter Angela Aki wrote to her future self when she was 15.

The lyrics feel like an exchange of letters between a troubled 15-year-old “me” and the future self who replies—an especially moving piece.

It gently stays close to the emotional ups and downs of a sensitive time and seems to encourage you, reminding you that the future isn’t only dark.

Released in September 2008 as her eighth single, the track is also included on the album ANSWER.

It was chosen as a required piece for the NHK National School Music Contest, and is also known as a song featured on NHK’s Minna no Uta and as the theme song of the film “Have a Song on Your Lips.” It’s an inspiring anthem that will resonate with your heart as you graduate and set out on a new path.

cherry blossomMoriyama Naotaro

Sakura

It’s one of the quintessential “sakura songs” you want to listen to when spring arrives.

Virtually synonymous with Naotaro Moriyama, this track was released as a single in March 2003 and sold over a million copies.

Its lyrics superimpose farewells to dear friends and moments of new beginnings onto the image of cherry blossoms that bloom beautifully and fall all too quickly, resonating deeply in the heart.

Beyond the sadness of parting, the song also conveys a warm, resilient strength, pledging to reunite in the future while holding onto unchanging feelings.

It was also beloved as the ending theme for the MBS/TBS program “Sekai Ururun Taizai-ki.” It’s a classic you’ll want to play on the day of graduation, reminiscing about the days spent with your friends.

Because we’re friends.Ochiai Wataru

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

Student days are filled with countless memories, and the moment of parting is both beautiful and tinged with melancholy.

Wataru Ochiai’s “Tomodachi Yakarane” captures those feelings richly.

With a warm melody, it portrays everyday life at school and farewells to close friends, celebrating the strength of our bonds.

This song has the power to dispel the anxiety of growing distant and to make us feel the constancy of our ties; it resonates especially deeply when heard during graduation season.

Its sincere lyrics give listeners courage and hope, offering a cheer for taking a new step forward.

proofflumpool

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

This is a perfect song for graduation ceremonies and the season of farewells.

Released by flumpool in 2011, it’s also known for being the set piece for the middle school division of the NHK All-Japan School Music Competition.

With lyrics themed around friendship, parting, and cherished memories, paired with a grand melody, it truly resonates.

The song was performed at the 62nd NHK Kohaku Uta Gassen in 2011 and has been loved by many.

It’s also recommended as BGM when making graduation videos on TikTok.

It’s a track that lets you look back on bonds with friends and gives you the courage to take a new step, so be sure to listen to it along with your graduation memories.

Sakura Clear SkiesYuuri

Sakura Clear Skies

A song that truly resonates during graduation season is Yuuri’s “Sakurabare.” Yuuri, known for “Dry Flower” and “Kakurenbo,” released this track digitally in 2021.

Perfect for closing out one’s youth, the song carries a moving message of gratitude to one’s parents.

Yuuri’s emotional vocals powerfully convey that thankfulness and are sure to capture listeners’ hearts.

As you look back on bonds with friends and family at graduation and take your next step forward, this song will be a source of encouragement for many.