[2026] Farewell and Goodbye Songs in Western Music: A Collection of Perfect BGM for Farewell Parties

WhateverNEW!Oasis

Oasis – Whatever (Official Video)

At moments celebrating a new chapter in life, grand-scale songs can be especially moving.

Oasis—the legendary British rock band that miraculously reunited in 2024 and sparked a social phenomenon with shows in Japan the following year—released the single “Whatever” in December 1994, a track brimming with hope for a free future.

Its beautiful string arrangements blend seamlessly with a powerful rock sound, creating a warmly resonant effect.

The song carries an affirmative message about singing one’s own free will, giving listeners a strong push forward.

In Japan, it has long been beloved, having been featured in Asahi Beer commercials, among others.

Why not choose it as farewell party BGM to blow away the sadness of parting and send off your friends with a smile?

Time After TimeNEW!Cyndi Lauper

Cyndi Lauper – Time After Time (Official HD Video)

Cyndi Lauper, the American singer-songwriter who helped define the music scene of the 1980s.

Included on her landmark 1983 album “She’s So Unusual” and released as a single in January 1984, this song is a warm ballad that gently accompanies moments of parting.

Its lyrics, promising to watch over someone across time, resonate deeply as a send-off message to colleagues or friends embarking on a new path.

In June 1984, it topped the U.S.

charts for two consecutive weeks, and it’s also known for being covered by Miles Davis.

Beloved across generations and featured in numerous films and TV dramas, it remains a timeless classic.

Consider choosing it as background music for a farewell party to express your gratitude.

CelebrationNEW!Kool and The Gang

Kool & The Gang – Celebration

Since their formation in 1964, the American legends Kool & the Gang have released countless classic songs.

Their signature work is the universally beloved “Celebration”! Included on the 1980 album Celebrate!, this masterpiece topped the U.S.

singles chart in 1981.

It also has a storied history of soundtracking momentous celebrations, from MLB World Series victories to radio broadcasts marking the release of the Iranian hostages in 1981.

Its simple yet powerful message—“Let’s all celebrate”—transcends language barriers and resonates with the heart.

If you want to turn a farewell party, which can easily become somber, into a positive, smile-filled celebration, this is the perfect song to choose.

my futureNEW!Billie Eilish

Billie Eilish – my future

Billie Eilish, a singer-songwriter who captivates the world with her whisper-like vocals and innovative sound.

Released in July 2020, “my future” is a beautiful number that finds hope in one’s own future.

It begins with a serene piano-and-vocal intro, then adds a light, buoyant beat in the latter half, evoking the uplifting feeling of fog lifting.

Featured on the album “Happier Than Ever,” the song expresses love not for others, but for one’s “future self.” It gently encourages those standing at life’s crossroads, such as changing jobs or graduating.

It’s a perfect track to play at a farewell party as you send off friends taking their next step.

Good Old DaysNEW!MACKLEMORE FEAT KESHA

MACKLEMORE FEAT KESHA – GOOD OLD DAYS (OFFICIAL MUSIC VIDEO)

A gem of a track from Macklemore, who continues to share messages that transcend hip-hop and touch the heart, featuring Kesha, known for her distinctive vocals.

Included on the album “Gemini,” released in September 2017, this song stands out for its beautiful piano melody and lyrics that cherish memories of the past.

It portrays the realization that the most ordinary moments were the most irreplaceable treasures, making it a sure tearjerker at any farewell gathering.

It was also performed at the 2018 Billboard Music Awards, where it became a major talking point.

This is a song that adds warm emotion to precious moments of reaffirming bonds with friends.

Why not use it as background music for a slideshow alongside your cherished photos?

Times Like TheseNEW!Foo Fighters

Foo Fighters – Times Like These (Official HD Video)

Foo Fighters are an American rock band that has remained at the forefront since the ’90s.

Formed around former Nirvana drummer Dave Grohl, they’re known for powerful, melodic rock.

Their signature track “Times Like These” sings of recovery and hope in the face of adversity.

Released as a single in 2003, it also appears on the acclaimed album One by One.

Its structure—building gradually from a quiet intro to rising intensity—is moving, and it’s well known that they performed it during a special broadcast around the January 2021 U.S.

presidential inauguration, expressing gratitude to educators.

The driving guitars and resonant melody can give you the courage to take a new step forward.

It’s a great song to play at a farewell party to support friends embarking on new challenges, such as a job change or relocation.

MemoriesNEW!Maroon 5

Maroon 5 – Memories (Official Video)

Maroon 5 is a band beloved around the world for their genre-blending musicality.

They’re very familiar to fans in Japan as well, and their song “Memories” has earned strong acclaim as a touching ballad.

Released in September 2019, its chord progression, reminiscent of Pachelbel’s Canon, evokes a deep sense of nostalgia.

In fact, the song is a tribute to their former manager who passed away suddenly in 2017, and it was later included on the album “Jordi,” named in honor of their late friend.

The track is also known for being used in the film “Venom: The Last Dance.” Filled with affection for friends who must part ways, it’s the kind of song that, when played at a farewell gathering, can envelop the entire venue in warm emotion.