Graduation songs that move the hearts of people in their twenties
Around February, you start hearing graduation songs more often on TV and around town.
When the topic of graduation songs comes up with friends or at work, there can be a bit of a generation gap—some people mention the big hits from that year, while others bring up the timeless staples.
In this article, we’ll focus on songs that hit the mark for people in their 20s—tracks they sang or listened to as graduation songs.
We’ll introduce many songs that stirred up the J-POP scene back then, as well as those that are still beloved today as classic graduation tunes.
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Graduation songs that moved people in their 20s (21–30)
DepartureFUNKY MONKEY BABYS
FUNKY MONKEY BABYS’ Tabidachi is surely an unforgettable graduation song for many people in their twenties.
From its 2008 release up to today, its melody and message have made it a steadfast anthem of the graduation season.
The chorus brings a refreshing sense of openness, while the rap parts add dynamism.
The courage conveyed by the lyrics and the strength of the melody feel like a push on the back for those standing at the threshold of a new beginning.
Especially for people in their twenties, this song playing at graduation ceremonies has likely become a vivid memory—an indelible snapshot of their youth.
proofflumpool
When it comes to unforgettable songs that colored the graduation season for people in their twenties, flumpool’s “Akashi” comes to mind.
Released in 2011 and selected as a set piece for the National School Music Competition, it became a special song for many young people.
Its warm melody and Ryuta Yamamura’s moving vocals beautifully illuminate graduation moments filled with tears and smiles.
The lyrics, which remind us of the value of the time spent together, make it a touching piece perfectly suited for the milestone of graduation.
cherry blossomKetsumeishi
When graduation season arrives, there are many songs that evoke deeply moving memories.
Among them, “Sakura” is a particularly special track for people in their twenties.
Released by Ketsumeishi, this song is considered a timeless classic that colors the scenes of graduation ceremonies.
Its gentle melody and lyrics that depict fluttering cherry blossoms resonate with the heart at the milestone of graduation.
The intro, in particular, seems to symbolize both the joy and the sadness of graduating, stirring the listener’s emotions.
Since the group began their musical activities in 1993, the song has continued to be loved for a long time as an anthem that gives young people a push forward.
Still ranking high in karaoke today, this track can be seen as a message of encouragement to everyone facing graduation.
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.
The meaning of goodbyeNogizaka46
This song portrays the hope that awaits beyond a heartrending farewell, carried by warm piano melodies.
Released by Nogizaka46 in November 2016, it is a memorable track in which Nanami Hashimoto served as center for the first time.
It was performed at the 67th NHK Kohaku Uta Gassen, moving the hearts of many.
It is a gentle, comforting piece that quietly supports those who have experienced parting from someone dear, or who are about to take a new step forward.
Sakura Clear SkiesYuri
A heartwarming number by Yuuri that empathizes with those facing graduation and new departures.
Set to gentle melodies of piano and strings, it beautifully expresses gratitude to family and the resolve to take a new step forward.
The lyrics, which capture everyday, ordinary scenes, convey the protagonist’s delicate emotional shifts on the verge of graduation.
Since its release in February 2021, the song has gained buzz primarily on social media and was included on Yuuri’s album “Ichi.” It has earned tremendous support from younger listeners entering graduation season.
A gem of a ballad that quietly stays by the side of anyone grappling with mixed feelings before leaping into a new environment.
Thank youFUNKY MONKEY BABYS
This is a song by FUNKY MONKEY BABYS that expresses gratitude as straightforwardly as possible.
Its warm melody, which gently envelops the listener’s heart, is also memorable, and it continues to be loved as a track that prompts us to reflect on our feelings for those who have supported us.
Released in February 2013, the song was chosen as the theme for MBS and GAORA’s broadcast of the 85th Senbatsu High School Baseball Tournament, as well as for Nippon TV’s “Akamru! Scoop Koshien.” The music video features Sanma Akashiya, which drew significant attention.
It’s a song to play when you want to convey your gratitude to someone important or to mark a milestone in life.