[2026] Modern graduation songs: Reiwa-era staples and new tracks you should know

Bye-Good-ByeBE:FIRST

BE:FIRST / Bye-Good-Bye -Music Video-

A song you’ll want to hear as graduation season—and farewells with friends—draws near is BE:FIRST’s second single’s title track.

Released digitally in March 2022, it was written as the theme song for the morning drama “Before Good-Bye: Fantastic 31 Days” on Nippon TV’s ZIP!.

Built on mid-tempo dance-pop with touches of R&B and hip-hop, its sound resonates comfortably.

The lyrics are striking in how they treat “goodbye” not as an ending but as a new beginning, making it a track that gives you the courage to move forward.

It debuted at No.

1 on Billboard JAPAN’s Streaming Songs chart and surpassed 100 million streams in September 2022.

Perfect not only for those heading into graduation ceremonies, but also for anyone stepping into a new environment.

As you look back on your youthful days, you’ll be able to take your next step with a smile.

the first strong spring windnishina

nishina – First Spring Storm [Official Video]

Like a spring breeze that stirs up memories, there are sudden moments when someone precious from the past comes to mind.

Released by Nishina in March 2023, this song gently scoops up those feelings that everyone carries.

From everyday scenes—the sight of laundry swaying, the scent of shampoo—former classrooms and friends come vividly back.

A simple band sound centered on acoustic guitar strumming highlights Nishina’s fragile yet resolute vocals.

Featured as the new radiko commercial song and as insert music for ABEMA’s romance reality show “Today, I Fell in Love: Phu Quoc Island Edition,” it touched listeners across generations.

Even while holding onto unspoken feelings, the resolve to move forward makes it perfect for graduation season.

It’s a graduation song that resonates not only with those facing farewell, but also with anyone who wants to quietly look back on their youth.

Time-Limited Unrequited LoveNogizaka 46

Nogizaka46 'Time-Limited Unrequited Love'

The first original song for Nogizaka46’s 6th generation, included on Type-B of the 38th single “Navel Orange.” The music video, released in March 2025, leaves a striking impression with dance scenes set against Hokkaido’s snowy landscapes and atop a frozen lake.

Set in a school classroom, the song portrays the anxious feelings of unspoken emotions as deadlines like graduation and class changes approach.

Many will relate to the usually reserved protagonist who realizes time is running out and tries to take a step forward.

The fresh vocals and driving melody give a powerful push to anyone hesitating.

It’s recommended not only for women experiencing unrequited love, but also for those who need courage to dive into a new environment.

Song of the ChickHalf time Old

Half time Old 'Hina no Uta' Music Video

A four-piece rock band based in Nagoya, Aichi, Half time Old released this track on their October 2020 mini-album CRISP YELLOW.

It’s a youthful punk number that races forward on an 8-beat drive, filled with a warmth that gives you a gentle push during the season of farewells.

The lyrics are memorable for their message that reassures you—“You’re not wrong”—even as you carry anxiety and loneliness about setting off on a new journey.

The music video is composed of cherished photos submitted by fans, designed to overlap with each listener’s own memories.

It’s a song that naturally sparks singalongs at shows, and if you raise your voices together at a graduation concert or a farewell party, it’s bound to become an unforgettable moment.

More than just a tearjerker, it’s a pep song that gives you the strength to step forward with a smile.

oneselfTani Yuuk

My True Self – Tani Yuuki [MV]

Here’s a gentle, supportive song for those who are setting off on a new journey before they’ve fully found confidence in themselves.

Released by Tani Yuuki as a digital single in March 2022 and later included on his 2023 album “Tamentai,” the track was written specifically for a web-only UQ mobile “UQ Ouen-wari” commercial featuring cast members from ABEMA’s romance show “Kyo, Suki ni Narimashita.” The lyrics, which speak to the anxiety of taking that first step, the tears shared with friends, and how all those experiences become a source of strength, were crafted with the hope of reaching even those who haven’t yet found their dreams.

In creating the song, he interviewed friends from his high school days about their past struggles, weaving in the authentic emotions of teenagers.

Urging listeners to accept themselves as they are rather than striving for perfection, this song gives you a gentle push forward—making it a perfect choice for anyone seeking courage before graduation or the start of a new chapter.

Forget-me-notMarushii

Marcy – Forget-me-not (Official Music Video)

A season of meetings and farewells that we feel with the arrival of spring.

Released in March 2021, this song by Marcy was created as the first spring-themed track by the three-piece band from Fukuoka.

The lyrics, penned by vocalist Ukyo Yoshida, delicately portray the desire to cheer on someone dear as they take a new step forward, intertwined with the ache of not wanting to let go.

Sound production was handled by Akimitsu Homma, known for his work with Ikimono-gakari, whose transparent band sound and grand arrangement strike straight at the heart.

The track is also included on their major-label debut album “Memory,” where it serves as a piece symbolizing the light of spring and the tremor of anxiety within a narrative that traces the memories of love.

It’s a work we hope reaches those who, during this season of graduations and new school terms, want to give someone a gentle push forward—even as, deep down, they wish they could stay together.

Hey, my friendMr.forute

Mr. Fōrute – Hey, My Friend [Official Music Video]

Mr.

Forte is a four-piece band from Tokyo that formed through connections in their high school light music club.

Released digitally in January 2021 and included on the album “sweet life,” this song is a number that captures heartfelt feelings for a dear friend.

Chosen as the theme song for the Twitter drama “Itadakeba, Totoshi,” sponsored by the Nisshin Seifun Group, it resonated with young people whose school events were restricted during the COVID-19 pandemic.

It carries a warm message: even while holding onto the emptiness of loss and frustration with a reality that won’t go your way, it’s enough to keep sharing laughs with the person beside you.

The clean-toned guitars and bouncy rhythm create a refreshing sense of speed, and the arrangement that lets emotions burst open toward the chorus feels so satisfying.

It’s the kind of song that makes you want to finally say the “thank you” you were too shy to express to friends you’ll be parting from at graduation.