[Showa-Era Graduation Songs] Nostalgic? Emotive? A curated selection of timeless classics loved across generations
Graduation songs are ones you start hearing everywhere from around February.
Every year, numerous tracks related to graduation are released.
And many people can vividly remember the songs that were hits when they graduated.
In this article, we’ve gathered graduation songs that were released during the Showa era and became hits.
Among these classics are songs that are still beloved decades after their release, as well as tracks experiencing revival hits on social media.
If you’re from the Showa generation, enjoy the nostalgia; if not, discover them with fresh ears and enjoy these Showa hit songs.
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Showa-Era Graduation Songs: Nostalgic? Emo? A Curated Selection of Timeless Classics Loved Across Generations (11–20)
Graduation PhotoArai Yumi
This is a classic graduation song released by Yumi Matsutoya during her Arai Yumi era, a timeless masterpiece that has been sung for many years.
It was first released as the debut single of the vocal group Hi-Fi Set, and later self-covered on her album COBALT HOUR.
Even as times changed, it continued to be included on albums and was listened to by people across generations.
Many renowned artists, including Hideaki Tokunaga and Hiromi Iwasaki, have covered it as well.
It’s a song that makes me feel a touch of wistfulness: the person I loved back then seems unchanged even after graduation, while I myself have changed so much.
Beyond the GoodbyeYamaguchi Momoe
A moving ballad by Momoe Yamaguchi themed around the lifespan of stars, time, and parting.
The lyrics contrast the grandeur of the universe with the fragility of human life, expressing the sorrow of farewell in a striking way.
Words of gratitude woven into the song resonate deeply with listeners.
Released in August 1980, this track is known as her final single before retirement.
At her final concert at the Nippon Budokan that October, she sang it through tears, leaving an indelible mark on many fans.
Listening while reflecting on memories with someone dear can give you the courage to take a new step forward.
Full of memoriesH₂O
Released in 1983, H2O’s “Omoide ga Ippai” is a graduation song that evokes the bittersweet memories of youth.
Beloved by many as the ending theme of the anime Miyuki, the track continues to be covered by numerous artists today.
Its beautiful twin-vocal harmonies and school-themed lyrics are a reassuring companion at the milestone of graduation.
Precisely in times when anxiety and hope intertwine, why not listen to “Omoide ga Ippai” and let it support your heart? Take a moment to hum this precious song, with gratitude for days gone by and anticipation for the life ahead.
Eyes of the heartSakamoto Kyu
A gem-like ballad by Kyu Sakamoto, steeped in warm affection.
The lyrics, filled with deep love for family, and his gentle, tender voice resonate in the heart.
Released in May 1985, this was his final single during his lifetime, expressing his love for his wife.
The lyrics portray an unchanging form of love that endures over the years, resonating with many and making it a popular song often sung at school events.
When you want to feel the bonds with your friends or find yourself at a crossroads in life, listening to it will fill you with warmth.
GraduationOzaki Yutaka
This song, which expresses the hazy, helpless frustration of student days, was released in 1985.
It’s a passionate graduation song by Yutaka Ozaki that speaks for students’ feelings.
Graduating from school may be nothing more than a waypoint.
True graduation might mean being freed from the distinctive haze of student life.
Being released from the cramped routine, from others’ eyes, and becoming free.
Yet beyond that freedom lies another kind of constraint.
Perhaps it’s telling us that this is how we grow into adults.