A lovely graduation song

[For the Big Day] A Collection of Classic Western Songs to Gift at Entrance Ceremonies [2026]

music writerKOH-1
Started working as a music writer as a side job while employed at a record shop, and for over 18 years I’ve contributed to music magazines, disc guide books, mooks, and web media. As a writer my main field is Western music, but as a listener for over 35 years, I always try to keep my curiosity alive with the motto “I like what I like.” I have experience playing in bands, where I was a bassist who handled songwriting and composition. Instruments I’ve played include bass, guitar, and piano. I began studying English in my mid-40s and continue to do so today.
Active club DJkento
Active club DJ. With over five years on the front lines of the club scene, they freely cross over from dance music to US hip-hop and Japanese rap. Blending in their own edits with assured mixing, they craft a unique groove that captivates the floor.

While there are plenty of straightforward entrance-themed songs, celebratory tracks, and pep anthems in J-pop that are perfect for entrance ceremonies—a major milestone for teens that arrives with spring—there are surely young music fans who are searching for Western music too.

In this article, we’ve selected hit songs and popular numbers from Western music that we highly recommend listening to as you head into your entrance ceremony.

From timeless classics to recent hits, we’ve put together a wide-ranging lineup that crosses eras and genres.

Be sure to use it as a reference!

[On the Big Day] A Collection of Classic Western Songs to Gift at Entrance Ceremonies [2026] (91–100)

HappyPharrell Williams

Pharrell Williams – Happy (Official Video)

HappyPharrell Williams

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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We are the ChampionsQueen

We Are the Champions (Remastered 2011)

We are the ChampionsQueen

It was apparently written with the expectation that it would be sung at soccer stadiums, and the fact that it turned out exactly that way really shows Queen’s greatness.

The “We” in the title doesn’t refer to Queen themselves, but means “each and every person around the world is a champion!” It’s an immortal anthem loved worldwide! It might be perfect when you need to get everyone fired up!

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[On the Big Day] A Collection of Classic Western Songs to Gift at Entrance Ceremonies [2026] (101–110)

You Raise Me UpJosh Groban

Josh Groban – You Raise Me Up (Official Music Video) [HD Remaster]

You Raise Me UpJosh Groban

A cover of a Celtic classic.

I chose Josh Groban’s version because the arrangement is especially wonderful.

The theme of this song is truly hope and courage.

It’s a song of beginnings, urging us to keep moving forward step by step with hope and courage, no matter what days lie ahead.

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Fucking PerfectP!nk

P!nk – F**kin’ Perfect (Official Video – Explicit)

Fucking PerfectP!nk

The title is a bit provocative, but the theme of the song is like cheering yourself on: “I’m not perfect, but I’m the best.” It’s based on Pink’s own real-life experiences, and personally, I think the sound design makes it a perfect song for setting off on a journey.

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EspressoSabrina Carpenter

Sabrina Carpenter – Espresso

EspressoSabrina Carpenter

A song has arrived that powerfully supports the dreams and hopes of young people.

Sung by Sabrina Carpenter, it features confident lyrics and an upbeat rhythm.

Released in April 2024, the track is included on her sixth album, Short n’ Sweet.

Its energetic beat and playful lyrics give you the courage to dive into new environments.

It’s the perfect song for anyone taking a new step while staying true to themselves.

If you listen to it with friends after the entrance ceremony, it will surely make you feel the exciting beginning of your school life.

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In conclusion

As the entrance ceremony approaches—whether you’re brimming with hope or feeling anxious—have you found the perfect song for this day of beginnings, with all its different emotions? Each of the songs chosen this time was selected with their lyrics in mind, so be sure to read the translations to understand their meanings, lift your spirits, and head into a wonderful entrance ceremony with a positive mindset!