Western Graduation Song Rankings [2026]

You’ve Got a FriendCarole King36rank/position

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Carole King’s classic “You’ve Got a Friend.” Released in 1971, it became a hit in Japan as well and is an internationally celebrated song.

Thanks to its fame and musical brilliance, it also won the Grammy Award for Song of the Year.

The title means exactly what it says: “You’ve got a friend.” Its lyrics, which portray the bond with a cherished friend, and its gentle melody leave a strong impression.

Donny Hathaway’s version is also highly recommended, so be sure to check that out too!

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Ryo

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CongratulationsPost Malone ft. Quavo37rank/position

Post Malone – Congratulations (Official Music Video) ft. Quavo

Post Malone, a popular rapper with rock star charisma who headlined the main stage at Summer Sonic 2022 and moved a massive crowd with just his voice, remains unforgettable.

His vocals and honest lyrics resonate with many, and “Congratulations,” released in 2017, is known as one of his signature hits that became a global success.

Featuring rapper Quavo, the track’s trap-based sound and Malone’s characteristically emotional melodies alone could bring you to tears.

Yet the word “congratulations” in the title also carries a hint of irony—being celebrated by people whose attitudes changed once he found success.

Even as he sings about achieving his dream while being told he’s changed, even by his mother, there’s a certain naive melancholy that lingers.

Still, for young people who’ve just graduated and are not yet anything in society, the message will surely give them the courage to move forward with hope.

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KOH-1

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HappyPharrell Williams38rank/position

Pharrell Williams – Happy (Official Video)

At an entrance ceremony that marks the start of a new chapter, you can’t help but want to hear a song that makes you so excited you could dance! Pharrell Williams’s 2013 release “Happy” is a dance track that lifts your spirits.

After it was featured in the film Despicable Me 2, it quickly became a hot topic and was released as a single.

Its sound, infused with soul and funk, is poppy and bright! The lyrics about being unable to contain your joyful, high-energy self mirror the fluttering hearts of new students.

Listening to this song will make you look forward to the entrance ceremony even more!

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mutō

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PhotographEd Sheeran39rank/position

Ed Sheeran – Photograph (Official Music Video)

As the title “Photograph” suggests, it evokes the image of an album filled with family photos, carefully tucked away deep in the house.

It’s a warm song that tells you, “Your place to come home to is right here.”

Don’t Stop Me NowQueen40rank/position

Queen – Don’t Stop Me Now (Official Video)

The beautiful melody at the beginning and the gradually intensifying, fast-paced development—above all, the sense of joy that overflows throughout the song—make it a track that inspires hope for the life ahead.

It’s a masterpiece that almost always gets mentioned among Queen’s greatest hits and is highly popular even among fans.

22Taylor Swift41rank/position

Taylor Swift – 22

A track included on the 2012 album Red is a bright pop anthem that celebrates the innocence and freedom of the early twenties.

Created by Taylor Swift in collaboration with world-renowned producers Max Martin and Shellback, the song portrays a wounded heart finding healing through time spent with friends.

Its breezy sound, blending elements of disco and 1990s rock, emphasizes anticipation for the new days ahead rather than the sadness of a breakup, and will gently support anyone facing the milestone of graduation.

It’s a song I recommend to all who want to carry the days spent with friends in their hearts and take a step toward tomorrow.

Fight SongRachel Platten42rank/position

Rachel Platten – Fight Song (Official Video)

Rachel Platten is a singer-songwriter known for her emotionally resonant vocals.

Her 2015 release “Fight Song” is an anthem used in various campaigns and commercials.

The mid-tempo drums and strings sound beautifully uplifting.

Having spent over a decade honing her craft, she brings real conviction to lyrics about not giving up.

For those of you starting school, days of challenges lie ahead.

Listening to this empowering track can help you greet this new beginning with a positive mindset.

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mutō

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