“Graduation Photo” popular cover song

Editor-in-Chief, RAG MUSICHane Keisuke
Editor-in-chief of RAG MUSIC. JFC-certified fact-checker. After working in a music studio and handling wedding sound, joined the RAG MUSIC editorial team in 2016. Experienced with a variety of instruments: marching band in elementary school, clarinet in junior high school wind ensemble, and drums in a band from high school onward. Drawing on my own musical activities and the experience gained through my work, I produce daily articles, including various song introductions, features on music festivals around the country, and live reports. In music, I enjoy not only rock from Japan and abroad but, lately, a wide range of J-pop as well.

“Sotsugyo Shashin” (Graduation Photo) is one of Yumi Arai’s signature songs and a timeless classic that continues to be sung today.

It remains hugely popular as a graduation song, and it’s a beloved Japanese classic that everyone has heard at least once.

Precisely because it’s such a masterpiece, countless artists have continued to cover this song.

Over the years, artists of all ages—and across genre boundaries—have kept this song alive with their covers.

In this article, we’ll introduce all of those covers in one go.

You’ll find some surprising artists who have covered it, as well as boldly arranged versions—making for a playlist you’re sure to enjoy.

“Graduation Photos” Popular Cover Songs (11–20)

Graduation PhotoArai Yumi

Graduation Photograph / Sotsugyou Shashin (2022 Ｍix)

Graduation PhotoArai Yumi

A masterpiece woven from a gentle singing voice that stays close to the heart and lyrics that gracefully portray nostalgia for days gone by.

Featured on the album “COBALT HOUR,” released by Yumi Arai in June 1975, this song delicately expresses life and change after graduation.

It lyrically spins memories of a cherished person who lives on forever within the warmth of reminiscence.

It was also selected as the theme song for Fuji TV’s drama “Sotsu Uta” and the film “Watch with Me.” A heartwarming encouragement song to listen to in times of sorrow or at life’s crossroads.

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In conclusion

We introduced covers of Yuumi Arai’s signature song—and enduring graduation classic—“Sotsugyo Shashin” (Graduation Photo).

Perhaps there were versions you hadn’t heard before? Each cover preserved the charm of the original while showcasing the unique flavor of each musician—wonderful renditions all around! Be sure to compare them and find your own favorite track.