Western Graduation Song Rankings [2026]

Shut Up and DanceWalk the Moon78rank/position

WALK THE MOON – Shut Up and Dance (Official Video)

This song, with its exhilarating rhythm and uplifting message, portrays a fateful encounter on the dance floor.

Its lyrics, which emphasize letting go of hesitation and enjoying the moment, are sure to resonate with many.

Released in September 2014 and included on the album “Talking Is Hard,” the track became a worldwide hit and is known as one of WALK THE MOON’s signature songs.

Its energetic sound and relatable lyrics are sure to encourage anyone taking a new step forward.

It’s the perfect song to listen to before an entrance ceremony or the start of a new chapter in life.

I Ain’t WorriedOneRepublic79rank/position

OneRepublic – I Ain’t Worried (From “Top Gun: Maverick”) [Official Music Video]

I Ain’t Worried, which means “I’m not worried at all,” is a recommended song by OneRepublic, a rock band formed in the U.S.

in 2002.

The repeatedly featured whistling melody is striking, and many listeners will probably think, “I know that whistling phrase!” when they hear it.

Ryan Tedder’s refreshing vocals are also perfect for the celebratory stage of a school entrance ceremony.

How about using this song to get in the mood for the big day?

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Yuuki

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Don’t Worry, Be HappyBobby McFerrin80rank/position

Bobby McFerrin – Don’t Worry Be Happy (Official Music Video)

If you start from the premise that life inevitably involves difficulties, even the smallest good things can feel truly delightful.

As words of encouragement for young people about to enter society, few pieces of advice are as compelling as the phrase, “Don’t worry, be happy.” Released in 1988, this work is a classic that reached No.

1 on the U.S.

charts.

Rain On MeLady Gaga, Ariana Grande81rank/position

Lady Gaga, Ariana Grande – Rain On Me (Official Music Video)

Lady Gaga, known for signature songs like “Born This Way” and “Poker Face,” teamed up with Ariana Grande—who has hits like “Break Free (featuring Zedd)” and “Problem”—for “Rain On Me,” a track that showcases their powerhouse vocals.

The provocative music video featuring bondage-inspired outfits is sure to get you pumped, so be sure to check it out on YouTube!

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Yuuki

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Hey JudeThe Beatles82rank/position

The Beatles – The Beatles – Hey Jude (Official Music Video) [Remastered 2015]

A masterpiece among masterpieces! No matter how much time passes, it continues to move people’s hearts.

This song was given by Paul McCartney, John Lennon’s close friend, to John’s son, Julian Lennon, who was hurt by John’s divorce from Yoko Ono, after John had grown up not knowing his father.

Their warm friendship and Paul’s kindness will surely resonate—without a word—even in the hearts of students who don’t know the song.

It’s a wonderful piece to dedicate to children who are about to spread their wings.

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Yoshizaki Keiko

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HeroMariah Carey83rank/position

Mariah Carey – Hero (Official HD Video)

Mariah Carey’s song Hero.

Everyone has moments when they think, “At the very least, I want to be on my own side!” Hero by Mariah Carey is a song I want you—someone who wants to be strong—to listen to.

Her voice feels as if it’s right there beside you.

If you’ve had times before graduation when you felt you had to pull yourself together for entrance exams and the like, listen to Hero and let it lift your spirits!

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konii

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Who SaysSelena Gomez & The Scene84rank/position

Selena Gomez & The Scene – Who Says

Released in 2011, this song of hers is one you should listen to when you’re feeling unsure of yourself.

The lyrics carry a message like: Who said you don’t have talent or aren’t wonderful? Don’t jump to conclusions—hold your head high and live with confidence.

Hearing it from someone as grounded as she is might just make you think, maybe that’s true.

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Hirakawa Masako (Bōkarisuto: Sakata Mizumako)

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