[2026] Graduation Songs That Move People in Their 20s

CorrectRADWIMPS

RADWIMPS – The Answer [Official Music Video]

A song by RADWIMPS that resonates with students’ hearts.

It delivers a powerful yet warm message to young people standing at the crossroads of graduation.

Originally created for the 18 Fes, an event for 18-year-olds in 2018, it was released digitally in January 2024.

Its lyrics delicately portray the journey of searching for the right answers in life and the shifting nature of friendship, sure to deeply touch students on the brink of graduation.

It’s a perfect track for the spring graduation season—why not give it a listen?

spring melancholyMrs. GREEN APPLE

Shunshu

It’s included on rock band Mrs.

GREEN APPLE’s sixth single, “Love me, Love you,” released in February 2018.

The song is said to have been written by vocalist Motoki Omori the day after his high school graduation ceremony, capturing his feelings exactly as they were at the time.

There’s a tenderness for days that, in hindsight, went by in a flash, and a loneliness you carry when you can’t quite be honest.

Many listeners may relate to the contradiction of thinking you hate your friends when, in truth, you really love them.

The track also became well known as the song used in Suntory’s “Craft Boss” commercial.

It’s a number that gently stays by your side if you’re feeling the sadness of parting with friends before graduation.

Only the graduation photo knowsHinatazaka46

The Only One Who Knows Is the Graduation Photo by Hinatazaka46

A song by Hinatazaka46 themed around graduation.

It gently sings of the bittersweet feelings of the cherry blossom season and the love that went unspoken.

Memories and regrets sealed in graduation photos resonate deeply, intertwined with clear, transparent vocals.

Set for release on January 29, 2025, the track features Nao Kosaka as center and will be available in five editions: limited first-press versions and a regular edition.

It was premiered at their Tokyo Dome concert on December 26, 2024.

It’s a recommended listen not only for students entering graduation season, but also for anyone who wants to reflect on past loves.

far; distant; by farGReeeeN

GReeeeN – Haruka

GReeeeN’s song Haruka, also known as the theme for the film ROOKIES: Graduation, was released in 2009.

The song portrays the feelings of people taking their first steps toward graduation and a new future, and many in their twenties keep listening to it while overlapping it with their own departures.

Its melody and lyrics, which evoke each person’s graduation ceremonies and moments of farewell, resonate deep in the heart.

GReeeeN’s warm vocals gently envelop the anxieties and hopes of a new life, which is why this song brings tears to your eyes no matter when you hear it.

It’s a special graduation song for people in their twenties—one you want to listen to while thinking of family and friends as you set off for a town far away.

Sakura Clear SkiesYuuri

Yuuri “Sakurabare” Lyric Music Video (1-chorus ver.)

A heartwarming number by Yuuri that empathizes with those facing graduation and new departures.

Set to gentle melodies of piano and strings, it beautifully expresses gratitude to family and the resolve to take a new step forward.

The lyrics, which capture everyday, ordinary scenes, convey the protagonist’s delicate emotional shifts on the verge of graduation.

Since its release in February 2021, the song has gained buzz primarily on social media and was included on Yuuri’s album “Ichi.” It has earned tremendous support from younger listeners entering graduation season.

A gem of a ballad that quietly stays by the side of anyone grappling with mixed feelings before leaping into a new environment.