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[2025] A Collection of Graduation Songs That 40-Somethings Remember [Japanese Music]

Even if the word “graduation” feels far behind you now, when spring approaches, you probably find yourself humming along to one or two songs that bring back those days.

In this article, we’ve handpicked nostalgic graduation songs for people in their 40s, selected by the author—who is also in their 40s! Alongside classic tunes often sung at actual graduation ceremonies, we also include popular ’90s J-pop graduation songs that might bring tears to your eyes from the very first notes.

It’s perfect for choosing tracks for karaoke with friends of the same generation.

Enjoy!

[2025] A Collection of Memorable Graduation Songs for People in Their 40s [Japanese Music] (31–40)

GraduationYuki Saito

Yuki Saito’s “Sotsugyo” is a special song for many people.

Debuting in the 1980s and loved across generations, this track delicately portrays the feelings of students facing the major life milestone of graduation.

Its lingering melody and warm vocals invite listeners back to the bittersweet memories of their youth.

With a modest vocal range and a gentle tempo, it’s easy for anyone to hum along—one reason the song has been sung and cherished for so long.

As a singular presence, it stands as a quintessential graduation song for those in their 40s.

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Full of memoriesH₂O

Miyuki ending theme song: Omoide ga Ippai by H2O (Mokkyun)
Memories Are Full H₂O

With the arrival of spring comes the memorable graduation season.

Perfect for this time is H2O’s “Omoide ga Ippai” (“Full of Memories”).

Despite the many years since its 1983 release, it remains a timeless classic that resonates with many.

The song is also known as the theme for the TV anime Miyuki and became an enduring hit.

Its melody is familiar, and just hearing the chorus will instantly wrap you in nostalgia.

With its beautiful harmonies, it’s great for collaborating with friends.

Loved across generations, this song will add a brilliant touch to the memories of your graduation day.

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Give Me Wings (Red Bird cover)Kaori Kawamura

Kaori Kawamura’s “Tsubasa wo Kudasai,” released in 1991, is a cover of the hit song by the folk group Akai Tori.

Arranged as a band song with a driving beat, it brings the melody’s beauty into even sharper relief.

Born to a Japanese father and a Russian mother, Kawamura experienced hardships in her childhood because she was mixed-race.

The way she sings—shaped by those varied experiences—and her free, soaring voice are deeply moving.

It’s a classic worth listening to again carefully, alongside memories of youth.

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GraduationMisato Watanabe

Misato Watanabe’s “Sotsugyo” is a quietly fragile and beautiful song that stands apart from her signature hit, “My Revolution.” Though it was a staple at graduation ceremonies back in the day, its appeal remains undimmed when you listen again now.

Among Tetsuya Komuro’s arrangements, the surging strings are especially stirring.

This track, which colored the graduation season of the ’90s, continues to live on in many people’s hearts.

Its gently wistful melody, arriving with the spring, will carry those in their 40s back to warm memories.

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In conclusion

The songs introduced in this article are all timeless classics that people in their 40s—and really, every generation from older to younger—can’t help but hum along to.

It’s a lineup unique to the 40-something generation, featuring both nostalgic Showa-era tunes and Heisei hits that were popular when they were teens.

As mentioned at the beginning, feel free to use this as a guide for choosing karaoke songs for class reunions and other gatherings!