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

About meMrs. GREEN APPLE

Mrs. GREEN APPLE – About Me

An epic rock ballad that powerfully sings of the wonder of life, and one of Mrs.

GREEN APPLE’s most monumental works.

Its lyrics, which affirm that both the days that don’t go well and the miraculous moments are all part of who you are, are sure to move you.

Released as a single in January 2019, it was written as the support song for the 97th All Japan High School Soccer Championship.

Created by vocalist Motoki Omori around the theme of “an anthem to life that can also affirm those who lost,” this piece delivers emotion that transcends winning and losing.

It’s a masterpiece that will resonate not only with those who devoted their youth to club activities, but with anyone struggling with their future.

As you stand at the milestone of graduation, listen while reflecting on the path you’ve taken.

You’ll feel the strength to believe in yourself well up inside.

HarukaYOASOBI

YOASOBI 'Haruka' Official Music Video

YOASOBI is a musical duo that captivates audiences around the world with the unique concept of “turning novels into music.” Their masterpiece Haruka, whose lyrics portray the growth and farewell of a girl from the perspective of a mug, resonates perfectly with the milestone of graduation.

Its message of unconditional love and gratitude connects with the feelings we have for the teachers and friends we’ve spent time with.

Based on The Moon Prince, an original short story by broadcast writer Osamu Suzuki, the song was released in 2020.

It was also featured in the Art Aquarium Exhibition 2021 and in a commercial for Punitto Runes, becoming a long-running hit with over 400 million streams.

Listening to it while wishing happiness for those dear to you who are setting off on their own paths gives you the courage to face forward amid the loneliness—a perfect number for graduation season.

Daphne (winter daphne)DISH//

DISH// – Sweet Daphne [Official Video]

When you feel like you’re about to lose heart, just knowing there’s a place you can return to might make you stronger.

Sung by the dance-rock band DISH//, this song is a mid-tempo number whose warm message resonates deeply.

The collaboration between vocalist Takumi Kitamura and Hattori from Macaroni Empitsu drew attention, and the track has been cherished as their 14th single, released in November 2021.

Chosen as the theme song for the TV drama “The Winner in February: The Classroom of Guaranteed Success,” it’s also included on the album TRIANGLE.

The lyrics, which portray a clumsy kind of kindness that can’t quite say “thank you” straightforwardly, are perfect for moments of reflection on family and teachers at graduation ceremonies.

Its marching-like forward-driving rhythm and handclaps are sure to give you the courage to take a new step.

Youth PhotographLittle Glee Monster

[Little Glee Monster] Youth Photograph [Litoguri]

As graduation season approaches, this timeless song is the one I can’t help but crave.

Released in March 2015 as one half of a double A-side single by Little Glee Monster—renowned for their powerful vocals—it’s characterized by a bright, Motown-inspired beat.

Rather than dwelling on the sadness of parting, it carries a forward-looking message: let’s say goodbye with a smile in the end.

It brings vibrant color to graduation ceremonies that can easily turn somber.

The music video was filmed with the full cooperation of a junior high school in Tokyo, capturing the students’ authentic expressions—don’t miss it.

The classrooms and hallways you shared with friends come vividly to mind, and each listen will bring back those memories in living color.

It’s a perfect song to celebrate a new beginning and give graduates a supportive push forward.

Thank youikimonogakari

Ikimonogakari 'Arigatou' Music Video

A signature ballad by Ikimonogakari, beloved as a classic song for expressing heartfelt thanks to those who’ve supported you.

It was written as the theme song for the NHK morning drama Gegege no Nyobo, starring Nao Matsushita as the heroine, and released as a single in May 2010.

Its warm message—portraying the love nurtured in everyday life and the resolve to walk hand in hand with someone precious into the future—resonates deeply with listeners.

Feelings that are clumsy and hard to put into words can be conveyed honestly when carried by the song’s gentle yet powerful melody.

So widely embraced that it’s even included in high school music textbooks, this masterpiece is perfect for expressing gratitude to teachers and friends at graduation ceremonies, or to family at thank-you gatherings.