Farewell Songs: Karaoke tunes to sing at a farewell party. Goodbye songs.
I think it’s common to hold farewell parties at life’s turning points—like graduation, job transfers, or retirement.
And at those farewell parties, it’s also pretty common to go to karaoke, right?
So in this article, I’ve put together a selection of songs that are perfect for farewells—songs you’ll want to sing at a send-off and songs that convey your feelings to someone setting off on a new journey.
I’ll be introducing farewell songs that carry messages of gratitude for everything up to now, as well as the feeling that you’ll keep cheering them on even after you part ways.
If you dedicate the songs I’m about to introduce along with your own heartfelt sentiments, I’m sure they’ll make a wonderful gift.
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[Farewell Songs] Karaoke songs to sing at farewell parties. Goodbye songs (41–50)
contrailYumi Arai
This is the song that was used as the theme for the 2013 Studio Ghibli film The Wind Rises.
The lyrics are mysterious, and the overall melody moves along at a gentle pace.
If you look into the background of how the piece was created, you’ll understand the reason behind its enigmatic worldview.
[Farewell Songs] Karaoke songs to sing at a farewell party: Goodbye tracks (51–60)
365 Days' Paper AirplaneAKB48
The nationally popular idol group AKB48.
Their song “365-Nichi no Kamihikōki” (365 Days of Paper Airplanes) is the theme for the morning drama series Asagakita.
The lyrics, written by Yasushi Akimoto, liken life to a paper airplane.
It carries a message that gives a gentle push to those feeling down, so try singing it as a cheer for your friends.
It was composed with the intention of making it easy for many people to sing, so even those who don’t usually go to karaoke should be able to handle it!
Don't give upZARD
Despite having limited media appearances and live performances due to vocalist Izumi Sakai’s severe stage fright, ZARD—a music unit that still maintains a strong fan base even long after their disbandment—released this as their sixth single.
It is one of the group’s signature songs that cemented their popularity and is widely known as a staple cheering anthem.
Its encouraging lyrics and driving tempo truly seem to give courage and reassurance to those pursuing their dreams.
Because of its powerful message and widespread recognition, it’s a classic karaoke song you’ll want to sing for a friend embarking on a new path.
Goodbye Busyuzu
A gem of a love song that gently wraps farewells and reunions in an acoustic sound.
It’s a heartwarming track you’ll want to listen to as spring arrives.
The protagonist’s hidden feelings and regrets are portrayed over a tender, bittersweet melody.
Yuzu’s refreshing vocals continue to resonate with those experiencing springtime goodbyes.
Released in March 1999 and included on the album “Yuzuen,” it was also featured as an insert song in the NHK morning drama series “Yanchakure,” capturing fans’ hearts.
It’s a song we hope those parting from someone dear, just before starting a new chapter in life, will listen to.
As a spring anthem that gives you the courage to take a step toward the future, it comes highly recommended.
GraduationYutaka Ozaki
Yutaka Ozaki delivers a work that captures the clumsy emotions of youth in their entirety with his powerful singing voice.
Frankly portraying the feelings of young people—such as the sense of suffocation in school life and distrust toward adults—this piece carries a universal message about the thirst for freedom felt within the school days that everyone experiences.
Released in January 1985 and peaking at No.
20 on the Oricon charts, it was issued as the lead single from the album Kaikisen (Tropic of Cancer).
Later, in 2016, it was also featured as the commercial song for a web-exclusive short film by a casual clothing chain, continuing to resonate with many people across generations.
It’s a track you’ll want to listen to when you’re wavering between ideals and reality or questioning the norms of society.
End and BeginningKariyushi 58
An evocative song that captures the sparkle found in calm, everyday life, it was released in February 2010 as the B-side to Kariyushi 58’s single “Ame nochi Hare.” Its warm acoustic sound and heartfelt message—like reflecting on yourself at the end of the day—are compelling.
The lyrics gently question the finiteness of life and the importance of the everyday.
The song was used as the theme for the 2016 drama “Sanbiki no Ossan 3: Seigi no Mikata, Mitabi!!,” and from October 2024 it has also been featured in a commercial for Japan Manufacturing Service.
It’s a piece I wholeheartedly recommend, one that can stay close to anyone facing a life milestone, such as graduation or a job change.
That's important.Daiji MAN Brothers Band
It’s a song that makes you feel like all you need to do is believe in yourself to the very end and keep moving straight ahead.
Released in 1991 as the DaijiMAN Brothers Band’s third single, it became a huge hit.
It’s a perfect send-off message for someone about to embark on a new journey—rather than getting sentimental, it’s an upbeat, powerful number that’s ideal when you want to see them off with smiles.