[2026] Graduation Songs That Move People in Their 20s
Do you remember that melody that echoed through the gym on graduation day? The song we sang with our arms around friends, holding back tears—the nostalgic BGM that played in the classroom.
Graduation songs are a special presence that distills youth itself, aren’t they? In this article, aimed at people currently in their 20s, we’ll deliver a rich selection of moving graduation songs that will bring back memories—focusing on tracks released during the 2010s through the pandemic era of the 2020s, when this generation experienced graduation.
Please enjoy to the end, soaking in the nostalgia as if you’re going back to meet your past self!
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[2026] Moving Graduation Songs That 20-Somethings Remember (31–40)
To the futureKiroro
This song is a staple among graduation tunes.
It’s a track by Kiroro, a female duo from Okinawa, released as their second single in June 1998.
Originally, the songwriter composed it in middle school to express gratitude to her mother, but its warm lyrics also resonate with the feelings we have for those who supported us at graduation.
Its simple, heartfelt melody has been featured as an insert song in the anime “Tsuki ga Kirei” and in commercials.
Singing of hope for the new paths ahead, this moving piece gives courage in times of parting and new beginnings.
It’s sure to be a song that gently nudges someone forward.
DarlingMrs. GREEN APPLE
This song features a light rhythm that evokes the warmth of spring and a melody that gently embraces personal doubts and inner conflict.
It portrays, from Mrs.
GREEN APPLE’s characteristically down-to-earth perspective, the emotional wavering everyone experiences in youth—wondering whether it’s okay to be one’s true self.
Created as a symbol of the band’s new phase, it was produced as the theme song for the NHK General special program “Mrs.
GREEN APPLE 18 Festival” in January 2025, and its collaboration with 1,000 18-year-olds generated a huge response.
This track warmly and gently nudges forward those beginning a new chapter in life or searching for their authentic selves.
C.h.a.o.s.m.y.t.h.ONE OK ROCK
A heartfelt song by ONE OK ROCK that sings of the brilliance of friendship and youth.
Included on the album “Zankyo Reference,” this track powerfully conveys the bonds with friends and the pursuit of dreams.
Its lyrics carry the message of “living in the moment,” gripping listeners’ hearts and never letting go.
Released in October 2011, it was also used as the ending theme for the TV program “To the Top of the Earth: Nobukazu Kuriki’s New Challenge.” Embraced as a warm, uplifting song that supports those graduating or embarking on a new journey, it continues to be loved by many.
YELLikimonogakari
Ikimono-gakari’s “YELL” is a song many young people sang at their graduation ceremonies, sharing in the emotion together.
It evokes memories of youth and gives you the courage to step into the future.
Its heartwarming melody and moving lyrics color moments of friendship and farewell.
In 2009, it was chosen as a set piece for NHK’s National School Music Competition and sung by many junior high school students, leaving a deep impression on countless listeners.
If you play this one song at the milestone of graduation, the memories of that day will come flooding back anytime.
Best FriendNishino Kana
Kana Nishino’s “Best Friend” is a heart-stirring song that’s perfect for graduation season.
The song is filled with gratitude and love for friends, resonating especially with people in their teens and twenties.
Nishino’s clear voice and relatable lyrics touch the hearts of many young listeners.
As farewells draw near, why not use this song to express the gratitude that’s hard to put into words? To forever cherish the precious memories with your friends, give “Best Friend” a listen.
It’s sure to bring back wonderful moments.