Remioromen's "March 9th" makes its annual return! The ultimate song of gratitude and graduation to listen to today

It's March 9th today. How many of you heard that melody pop into your head the moment you saw the date? That's right – it's Remioromen's "March 9th". Even though it's been nearly two decades since its release in 2006, their song faithfully returns to our lives every year on this day. It's like the first cuckoo of spring, a sign that the new season is on its way.

And this year is no different. But 2026 feels a little special. The song is enjoying a real resurgence amongst the younger generation. The catalyst was a cover by Sakurazaka46 on a recent music programme. Their crystal-clear harmonies delivered the warmth of the original straight into the present day, sending '#March9th' trending on social media. It's a heart-warming sight, seeing two generations sharing this song.

Why "March 9th" continues to be loved

What is it about this song that captures hearts and refuses to let go? It has to be the sheer poetry of the lyrics. That opening line, "In the middle of the passing seasons," has become a firm favourite not just for graduation ceremonies, but as wedding reception background music too. And the serendipity of the date – 3/9 sounding like "Thank you" – surely sealed its fate.

More than anything, though, it's the song's remarkable ability to fit any occasion. The sadness of parting, the hope for a new chapter, gratitude for family and friends – it holds as many stories as there are listeners. I'll be blowed if I don't get a lump in my throat every time I sing it at karaoke, picturing my old university friends.

A special way to listen, just for today

It seems a shame to just give it a standard listen on a special day like March 9th. A quick look at music streaming services reveals a fascinating array of "March 9th"-related searches.

• "March 9th -1 KEY (Karaoke)": Perfect if you find the original key a bit of a stretch. This version, pitched a semitone lower, is quietly popular amongst chaps who want to sing it comfortably.
• "Brand New 50 Disc Custom Order Remioromen March 9th Orpheus 264 Music Box": A bit of a mouthful, but this item is creating a buzz amongst music box enthusiasts. That beautiful melody takes on a whole new dimension when rendered as a music box chime.
• "March 9th (Originally Performed by Remioromen)": Plenty of cover versions are available too, so you can have fun finding an arrangement that's right up your street.

Apparently, there's a rush of people singing this song in karaoke boxes today and only today, with it already breaking into the top ten charts at major chains. I'll bet plenty of you are planning to pop along with some mates after work this evening.

What this song teaches us

Remioromen's Ryota Fujimaki once said he hoped this song would become "that one special song for someone." And his wish came true; the song continues to be a comforting presence in people's lives. It feels like, especially in recent years when opportunities to say a direct "thank you" have dwindled, more of us want to express our feelings through music.

May today be the day you're inspired to show your appreciation to someone special. And may that melody gently find its way into your heart, too, as you read this.

So go on, add "March 9th" to your playlist right now and welcome the arrival of spring.