[Graduation Songs] A farewell day colored by Western music: friendship-filled graduation songs that resonate with the heart

We Are YoungFun

Fun.: We Are Young ft. Janelle Monáe [OFFICIAL VIDEO]

It’s a globally famous song by fun.

that won two awards at the 2013 Grammys: Best New Artist and Song of the Year.

The album Some Nights, which includes We Are Young, features many tracks that portray the struggles and energy of youth, making it a work that radiates youthful power.

It was also covered on the TV show Glee, which drew further attention.

The AnthemGood Charlotte

Good Charlotte – The Anthem (Official Video)

This song by Good Charlotte, a five-piece American punk rock band, captures the kind of idealized punk spirit that students often imagine.

The feeling of “Everyone graduates high school, goes to college, gets a full-time job, and walks the same path—but I won’t,” that sense of wanting to be different from everyone else—is something many of us can relate to, isn’t it? Those feelings are extremely important, and without people like that, the world would probably be a much less interesting place.

Don’t Stop Believin’Journey

Journey – Don’t Stop Believin’ (Escape Tour 1981: Live In Houston)

Life is a long journey (and I’m not saying that just because the band’s name is Journey), and I think what matters is how we keep living without ever stopping believing.

Naturally, as we graduate and grow into adulthood, we have more to protect, become more timid, and lose some freedom.

Even so, not believing is the one thing I never want to do.

Live Like We’re DyingKris Allen

Kris Allen – Live Like We’re Dying (Official Video)

Powerfully conveying the transience and preciousness of life, this song resonates deeply with listeners.

While mindful of time’s finiteness, its lyrics emphasize the importance of cherishing bonds with loved ones, prompting us to reflect and take action.

Kris Allen’s husky yet warm vocals make the message even more memorable.

Released in November 2009, the track reached No.

18 on the U.S.

Billboard Hot 100, and its performances on various TV shows also drew attention.

It’s a perfect song for graduations and moments of departure, reminding us to find the courage to take a new step and to feel gratitude for the people who matter most.

We Are GoldenMIKA

MIKA – We Are Golden

Since Mika’s songs are often used on TV and elsewhere, I imagine many people find the singing voice familiar.

In particular, the collaboration with Ariana Grande, Popular Song, became a huge hit worldwide.

This is a track Mika released in 2009.

Even from the music video, you can feel the youthful recklessness and fun coming through alongside the pop sound.

You Get What You GiveNew Radicals

New Radicals – You Get What You Give (Official Music Video)

The original song that was also used in the hit international TV series “Glee.” Its utterly upbeat sound and melody, along with bittersweet lyrics that might feel a bit cringey at times, will surely give you a push as you embark on a new chapter!

PhotographNickelback

Nickelback – Photograph

This song by the Canadian rock band Nickelback is a staple that almost always gets mentioned when introducing Western graduation songs.

Although it was released in 2005, it hasn’t lost its shine and still doesn’t feel dated today.

While many of their tracks lean heavily into hard rock, this one is a mellow rock ballad that really tugs at the heart.

The lyrics depict looking back on old memories while gazing at old photographs, and the line “goodbye” in the chorus is especially striking, making it a perfect fit for farewell moments during graduation season.

expand_lessRaise the rankingexpand_morelower

Hane Keisuke

Report a problem