RAG MusicGraduation
A lovely graduation song

Stand out with Western graduation songs: moving songs that touch hearts in English

When graduation season approaches, do certain melodies suddenly come to mind? The days spent with friends, the mix of excitement and anxiety about stepping onto a new path.

Graduation songs gently wrap up those complicated feelings, don’t they? In this article, we’ll introduce plenty of Western graduation songs.

Expressions that resonate precisely because they’re in English, and universal messages that transcend words.

From timeless tracks that bring tears to your eyes, to songs that give you the courage to face forward—find the perfect music to celebrate your new beginning!

Stand out with Western graduation songs: 11–20 moving songs to touch hearts in English

Always Be TogetherLittle Mix

Little Mix, the girl group that emerged from a British audition show, has won many fans in Japan with their powerful vocals and relatable personalities.

Featured on their album DNA, released in November 2012, this track is a hidden gem.

Although it wasn’t released as a single, it seems to be cherished among fans as a song about graduation and parting.

Its lyrics, which depict everlasting friendship and bonds that remain strong even when apart, are sure to resonate deeply with those setting out on a new path.

Layered with the quartet’s beautiful harmonies, the song sparked full-venue singalongs during their 2013 tour.

It’s a warm, comforting piece for anyone facing the sadness of being separated from friends.

Be sure to give it a listen.

Here’s to Never Growing UpAvril Lavigne

Avril Lavigne – Here’s to Never Growing Up (Official Video)
Here's to Never Growing UpAvril Lavigne

It’s a refreshing anthem that celebrates eternal youth.

Avril Lavigne’s powerful vocals sweep away the pressure of growing up and proclaim the importance of fully enjoying the present.

Released in April 2013, the song was included on her self-titled album and reached the top 20 in multiple countries.

She reportedly drew inspiration from the young fans she met during tours around the world.

It’s a track that gives you the courage to look ahead without losing your true self during graduation season or at life’s crossroads.

Recommended not only for young people, but also for anyone who, even as an adult, refuses to forget the passion they hold in their heart.

CongratulationsPost Malone ft. Quavo

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

Castle on the HillEd Sheeran

Ed Sheeran – Castle On The Hill [Official Music Video]
Castle on the HillEd Sheeran

This song, which reflects on youthful memories and love for one’s hometown, vividly captures the emotions deep within Ed Sheeran’s heart alongside the beautiful scenery of his native Suffolk.

Released in January 2017, it became a massive hit, reaching high positions on charts around the world.

Blending nostalgia with the growing pains of coming of age, this track is perfect for anyone who has left their hometown or wants to look back on their youth.

BreakawayKelly Clarkson

Kelly Clarkson – Breakaway (Official Video)
BreakawayKelly Clarkson

This is a must-listen classic for anyone who has just finished the major life event of graduation and is feeling anxious about the future or a new chapter! “Breakaway,” a massive hit by popular singer Kelly Clarkson—who won the first season of the hugely popular American audition show American Idol and truly lived a success story—moved many with lyrics that seem to depict Kelly’s own life.

It’s also the opening track of the album of the same name released in 2004, and some may fondly remember how both the song and the album became huge hits.

The story told through Kelly’s honest, soaring vocals is about a protagonist who grew up in a small town and musters the courage to step out into the world to seize success.

With simple yet powerful lyrics—sometimes you have to take a risk and leap to grab your chance—it’s exactly the kind of song that, as mentioned at the start, will resonate with those who feel uncertainty or doubt about their path after graduation!