[Graduation Songs] A farewell day colored by Western music: friendship-filled graduation songs that resonate with the heart
Graduation songs from Western music that stay close to you in the moments of commencement and setting out.
With moving melodies and forward-looking messages, these classics have brightened milestones for people around the world.
The universal feelings conveyed precisely because of the English lyrics, along with the empowering, stirring sound, will gently give you a push as you step onto a new stage.
In this article, we’ve picked a wide range—from timeless staples long loved as graduation songs to tracks bursting with refreshing, awakening energy.
Be sure to check out these heart-touching Western songs that are perfect for that special day when farewells and hope intersect!
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[Graduation Songs] A Farewell Day Colored by Western Music: Friendship Graduation Songs That Touch the Heart (11–20)
Eternal SunshineJhené Aiko
If you’re looking for a mellow track, I recommend Eternal Sunshine.
It’s a song included on singer-songwriter Jhené Aiko’s album Souled Out.
It’s a very wet, emotional ballad, with lyrics that look back on life and declare, “I have no regrets.” There’s a part where she reflects on memories spent with someone dear.
Try listening to it while overlaying it with memories of friends you’ll be parting from after graduation.
Let it beThe Beatles
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.
Best FriendsThe Weeknd
When it comes to graduation songs, ballads are what most people imagine.
So I’d like to introduce an electronic track with a deliberately cool vibe instead.
It’s called “Best Friends.” In a sense, it’s a ‘bestie anthem,’ portraying the inner conflict of a guy who starts developing romantic feelings for his close friend.
By the end of the song, it’s implied that he decides to hold those feelings back.
By the way, the lyrics are a bit explicit, so if you plan to play it somewhere, you might want to check them in advance.
(I’ve Had) The Time Of My LifeBill Medley & Jennifer Warnes
In the refreshingly airy atmosphere of a graduation party, there are times when you want to play a truly memorable song.
“(I’ve Had) The Time of My Life” by Bill Medley and Jennifer Warnes is a perfect choice for such an occasion.
Featured in the 1987 film Dirty Dancing and the recipient of numerous awards, this classic resonates across generations with a sense of harmony.
The saxophone solo is so compelling it makes you lean in, and as you surrender to the comfortable rhythm, you can bask in the bittersweet memories of student-life romance.
It’s the perfect track to color those classroom days filled with laughter and tears, and a highly recommended song for anyone taking a new step forward.
I’ll Be There for YouThe Rembrandts
As a Western song perfect for the season of farewells, Michelle Branch’s “Goodbye to You” is also recommended.
Released in 2000, this song poignantly conveys the pain of heartbreak, yet its heartfelt lyrics also fit graduation scenes.
Depicting gratitude for friends and companions embarking on new paths and the sadness of seeing them off, it gives you the courage to overcome parting and take the next step.
Why not send your gratitude to someone special, along with her warm, comforting voice?