Graduation Songs for Those in Their 30s: Nostalgic Classics That Rekindle Emotions & Timeless Favorites Still Popular Today

It’s okayji ma ma

jimama “It’s Okay”

Many of you probably remember that gentle singing voice from the commercial! This song by jimama, a singer-songwriter from Okinawa, is a warm ballad that seems to wrap listeners’ anxieties in comfort.

The words, inspired by “the precious person who always supports you,” resonate deeply with hearts facing graduation or a new departure.

Released as a single in April 2009, it was featured in a Taiyo Yakuhin Kogyo TV commercial at the time and played in living rooms across the country.

It topped the charts in Okinawa and was rediscovered after a 2014 TV appearance, remaining a beloved classic.

It’s also included on the album “BEST OF jimama ~Kimi ni Okuru Uta~.” As spring brings changes, it’s perfect for friends who are feeling anxious.

Rather than forcing encouragement, it’s filled with a gentle presence that simply stays by your side—sing it at a farewell party or karaoke, and the whole room is sure to be wrapped in a warm atmosphere!

GIVE ME FIVE !AKB48

[MV full] GIVE ME FIVE! / AKB48 [Official]

AKB48, who built an era as “idols you can go to meet” and hold numerous glittering records.

Released in February 2012, this song drew major attention for featuring the members taking on instrumental performance as the band “Baby Blossom.” Although the title doesn’t include the word “sakura,” it centers on springtime farewells and new departures, delivering an uplifting message that resonates: wipe your tears and share a high-five with a smile.

Its 34-minute, drama-style music video and use in various advertising campaigns also became hot topics.

Graduation season can feel somber, but this is a go-to cheer song that gives a push toward a new world—perfect for getting everyone fired up with friends at a reunion karaoke session.

My friendZARD

My Friend (What a beautiful memory 2008)

A signature number by ZARD, famously known as the ending theme of the TV anime SLAM DUNK.

The lyrics woven by Izumi Sakai carry both the warmth of watching over “you” who keeps running straight ahead and the poignancy of a relationship that might one day change—each listen is enough to make your heart swell.

Released in January 1996 as their 17th single and opening the album TODAY IS ANOTHER DAY, this song became a million seller and is etched in the hearts of many fans.

It’s a perfect cheer song for those pivotal moments of youth—like retiring from a club activity or at a graduation ceremony.

Why not sing it at karaoke with friends you haven’t seen in a while, reminiscing about those days? Its unfading melody will surely bring those feelings from back then vividly back to life.

GOOD BYE MY SCHOOL DAYSDREAMS COME TRUE

DREAMS COME TRUE – 「GOOD BYE MY SCHOOL DAYS」

It turns the shining days of youth into the strength to move forward into the future.

Here’s a perfect song for graduation season! It’s a single by DREAMS COME TRUE, released in February 2009.

The song is based on a piece vocalist Miwa Yoshida wrote in her senior year of high school, making it a truly down-to-earth graduation song.

In addition to DREAMS COME TRUE’s version, the single includes covers by ORESKABAND, actress Mikako Tabe, and FUZZY CONTROL, letting you enjoy one melody in four different arrangements.

Its bittersweet yet positive lyrics will give you the courage to overcome the sadness of parting.

Chosen as a campaign song by NHK, this track is perfect as background music to celebrate a new beginning—why not give it a listen?

Goodbye Memoriessupercell

sayonara memories – supercell

It’s a song that captures the bittersweet feeling of graduating while holding close the memories of familiar routes home and casual conversations.

Released in February 2010, it was written and composed by ryo, with vocals by nagi.

The driving sound woven from piano and strings beautifully conveys the unique restlessness of youth.

It’s also included on the classic album “Today Is A Beautiful Day,” and has long been loved as a spring staple.

In the climax of the lyrics, the protagonist musters their courage—a moment that’s sure to set your heart racing just by listening! If you have words you want to share with someone, this song will surely give you the courage to speak them.

Endless road19

19 (Juke) "Endless Road"

A classic song by the folk duo 19 that’s essential for the season of departures.

Released in April 2000 as their fourth single, it became widely known as the theme for Lotte’s “Fratte” commercial.

The song rides on a brisk, driving melody to express both the anxiety of stepping into an unknown world and the strong resolve to keep moving forward.

It’s the kind of track that naturally gives you courage when you listen to it while leaving your hometown for the big city.

Song of a FriendBUMP OF CHICKEN

BUMP OF CHICKEN “Friend’s Song”

A classic by BUMP OF CHICKEN known for its warm yet heartrending melody.

The lyrics, which speak to a friend who’s growing distant, saying that the bond of the heart won’t fade even with physical distance, are sure to bring tears.

It’s also well known that Motoo Fujiwara created it with “Nobita” in mind.

Released as a single in February 2011, the song became beloved as the theme for the film Doraemon: Nobita and the Steel Troops: The New Age.

Its sweeping strings and horns seem to gently envelop the sadness of parting.

It’s a song you’ll want to give to friends you’ll be separated from at graduation, along with your gratitude.

It would also be lovely to play at a reunion where you’ve promised to meet again.