Farewell and goodbye songs in Western music: A roundup of perfect BGM for farewell parties

SAYONARAMary MacGregor

Mary MacGregor “Sayonara” (Farewell to Galaxy Express 999)

This is the ending theme of the film Farewell to Space Battleship Galaxy Express 999, created by American singer Mary MacGregor, who topped the U.

S.

charts in 1976 with her smash hit Torn Between Two Lovers.

For this animated film released in August 1981, she wrote both the lyrics and the music, resulting in a roughly five-and-a-half-minute ballad featuring an impressive, grand orchestration by the Los Angeles Symphony.

The lyrics, which sing of the sorrow of parting and the hope that follows, are carried by her delicate and emotionally rich vocals, and together with the movie’s final scene, they leave a deep impression on the audience.

Showcasing the power of music to transcend borders, this masterpiece is recommended not only for anime fans but also for lovers of Western pop.

All My FriendsLCD Soundsystem

LCD Soundsystem, “All my friends”

LCD Soundsystem, a quintessential name in the electroclash genre.

Their song “All My Friends” looks back nostalgically on memories with friends we used to hang out with, and says, “let’s get together again sometime,” so it’s definitely a song I’d love to use at a farewell party.

You’re Gonna Miss ThisTrace Adkins

Trace Adkins – You’re Gonna Miss This (Official Music Video)

Trace Adkins is a male singer-songwriter who energized the country music scene from the late 1980s through the 1990s, known for a heartfelt musical style shaped by his warm, rich voice.

Among his works, one song I especially recommend on the theme of farewells and goodbyes is “You’re Gonna Miss This.” It centers on life after parting from someone important and is filled with deeply moving lyrics.

Be sure to check out the Japanese translation as well.

Count on MeBruno Mars

Bruno Mars – Count on Me (Official Lyric Video)

Bruno Mars is an artist who is highly acclaimed around the world.

In his early career, he mainly released pop songs; in the mid-period, he shifted toward rock ’n’ roll and soul music; and today he focuses on disco and R&B, having changed his style multiple times over the course of his career.

“Count on Me” is a piece created between his early and mid periods, and it’s a catchy song themed around friendship.

With its heartwarming lyrics, it’s a great recommendation as a farewell song.

Graduation (Friends Forever)Vitamin C

Graduation (Friends Forever) – Vitamin C HD

Vitamin C is a cute American woman who is active as an actress, singer-songwriter, and dancer.

This is a graduation-themed single from her debut album, released in 1999.

PhotographNickelback

Nickelback – Photograph [OFFICIAL VIDEO]

Nickelback is a rock band that represents Canada.

They’re a legendary rock band with many fans in Japan as well.

Among Nickelback’s works, a song I especially recommend for the theme of farewell and parting is “Photograph.” It’s about a man’s feelings as he leaves his hometown.

Although cultural differences may create a slight disconnect with some of the lyrics, there are many lines you can relate to.

Be sure to check out the Japanese translation, too.

I Will Remember YouSarah McLachlan

sarah mclachlan – i will remember you

Sarah McLachlan is a Canadian singer-songwriter.

This song was used as an insert song in the 1998 American TV drama Felicity.

It’s a song I especially want people with strong feelings toward the person they’re parting from to sing.