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

High HopesPanic! At The Disco

Panic! At The Disco – High Hopes (Official Video)

This track from the 2018 album Pray for the Wicked is an uplifting rock number themed around the unwavering will to keep chasing your dreams.

It reflects Brendon Urie’s childhood memories of holding a cardboard guitar and dreaming of being a rock star in front of a mirror, and it weaves in lyrics inspired by his mother’s encouragement to “be something greater.” Conveying a message of letting go of the past to build a new self and maintaining high ambitions even in hard times, it’s a song that gently supports those reaching a milestone like graduation.

Chosen for Honda’s ACCORD commercial, its powerful horn section and clear vocals leave a strong impression, delivering courage to anyone taking a new step forward.

Wake Me UpAvicii

Avicii – Wake Me Up (Official Video)

The artist Avicii sadly passed away in 2018.

Unusually for a DJ, he was also good at vocals, and his catchy style earned him worldwide popularity.

Among his many masterpieces, the one I especially recommend is Wake Me Up.

It’s his biggest hit song, with motivational lyrics that leave a strong impression.

It’s perfect for graduates who are about to move on to a new stage in life.

Be sure to check it out.

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Count Me InDove Cameron

Dove Cameron – Count Me In (from “Liv & Maddie”)

Introducing a moving ballad from the Disney Channel series “Liv and Maddie” that portrays the unbreakable bond between sisters.

Released by Dove Cameron in 2014, the song features the warm tones of piano and guitar typical of teen pop, and its chorus layers vocals to create a soaring sense of hope.

The lyrics describe two people who illuminate each other like the sun and the moon, resonating not only with sisterhood but also with friendships, conveying the strength of a bond that remains unchanged even when apart.

Topping Billboard’s Kids Digital Songs chart, this track is perfect for looking back on memories with friends as you head off in different directions after graduation.

my futureBillie Eilish

Billie Eilish – my future

This is a song themed around self-love and personal growth, incorporating elements of R&B and jazz.

It begins with a gentle piano and shifts to a brighter rhythm in the latter half, expressing inner transformation and hope for the future.

Released in July 2020, it drew attention as the lead single from the album “Happier Than Ever.” Billie Eilish’s vocals convey a sense of her growth, and the animated music video depicting a journey of self-discovery is also captivating.

It’s a recommended track for graduates stepping into a new environment and for anyone who wants to face themselves.

That’s What Friends Are ForDionne Warwick

That’s What Friends Are For (Official Video)

How about expressing your gratitude in music to the friends who’ve shared both joys and hardships with you? The perfect song for such a situation is “That’s What Friends Are For.” It’s a track by British singer Rod Stewart.

There’s also a widely beloved cover version by Dionne Warwick and Stevie Wonder, among others.

The gentle sound of the harmonica and the lyrics celebrating friendship are sure to bring tears to your eyes.

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Let it beThe Beatles

Let It Be (Remastered 2009)

The masterpiece “Let It Be,” created by Paul McCartney.

Released in 1970, it gained worldwide popularity, helped by its use as the theme song for the film Let It Be, which came out the same year.

In Japan as well, most people have probably heard it at least once.

As for the lyrics, the central theme is essentially “letting things be as they are.” Strongly influenced by religion, it might be a perfect fit for graduation ceremonies, which carry a very public image.

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You’ve Got a Friend in MeRandy Newman

Randy Newman – You’ve Got a Friend in Me (From “Toy Story 4″/Audio Only)

A friendship song loved across generations, ‘You’ve Got a Friend in Me.’ It’s also famous as the theme song for the movie Toy Story, so even those who didn’t grow up with it have probably heard it.

The lyrics celebrate a friendship that doesn’t change, even when you live far apart or time passes.

It’s perfect for a graduation ceremony marking a new beginning.

I hope you’ll take your time listening while being swept away by Randy Newman’s sweet vocals.

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