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

Best FriendREX ORANGE COUNTY

Rex Orange County – Best Friend (Official Audio)

Rex Orange County, a singer-songwriter from the UK.

Known for his unique style that blends bedroom pop, jazz, and soul, his song—released in January 2017—became a long-running hit and later earned platinum certification.

Capturing the emotions of a young person torn between unrequited love and friendship, this track may prompt listeners to reexamine important relationships at the milestone of graduation.

Its melody, woven from gentle guitar and a husky voice, quietly accompanies hearts filled with both anxiety and anticipation for the path ahead.

It’s a song I especially recommend to graduates stepping into their own futures, carrying feelings for someone they’ve cherished as a friend.

Just a Friend To YouMeghan Trainor

Meghan Trainor – Just a Friend To You (Vevo Presents)

Featured on Meghan Trainor’s May 2016 album “Thank You,” this song rides a light, ukulele-driven sound to express the bittersweet ache of unrequited love.

Wrapped in a fresh, doo-wop-inspired melody, it captures the frustration of being seen as just a friend, alongside the pure desire to stay by that person’s side.

It’s a track that will resonate with those facing graduation and grappling with the complex emotions between friendship and romance.

Its friendly acoustic sound gently nudges you forward as you take your next step.

HistoryOne Direction

One Direction – History (Official Video)

When it comes to Western music perfect for graduation season or new beginnings, The Rembrandts’ “I’ll Be There for You” is highly recommended.

While it carries the comfortable vibe of 1990s America, this classic celebrates the importance of friendship.

Formed by Phil Solem and Danny Wilde, The Rembrandts gained worldwide recognition with this song.

It became even more famous as the theme song for the TV show Friends, depicting the significance of a best friend who’s always by your side to support you.

Beloved across generations, the song’s melody and lyrics are memorable, making everyone want to express their gratitude to their friends.

Don’t Look Back In AngerOasis

Oasis – Don’t Look Back In Anger (Official Video)

Oasis’s classic “Don’t Look Back in Anger” was included on their 1995 album and released as a single the following year, in 1996.

It enjoyed immense popularity, topping the charts in the UK.

As for the lyrics, they’re very abstract and frankly hard to understand, but since Noel Gallagher, who wrote the song, reportedly doesn’t fully grasp their meaning either, it’s probably not something to worry about too much.

The melody has a youthful feel to it, making it a perfect fit for occasions like graduation ceremonies.

expand_lessRaise the rankingexpand_morelower

Ryo

Report a problem

We Are The ChampionsQueen

Queen – We Are The Champions (Official Video)

It’s Queen’s famous song that everyone knows, We Are The Champions.

The lyrics are striking in how they boldly push us forward with the message that “what you need is to believe in yourself and charge ahead.” I think its message—that even if the road isn’t easy, if you move forward with confidence you can become a champion—matches perfectly with graduation, so please give it a listen.

Girls Just Want To Have FunCyndi Lauper

Cyndi Lauper – Girls Just Want To Have Fun (Official Video)

This signature song by Cyndi Lauper, released from her 1983 debut, is a pop anthem that powerfully proclaims women’s right to have fun freely.

The original was written from a male perspective, but Lauper reinterpreted it to foreground female agency, elevating it into a bright, empowering message.

Blending new wave and dance-pop with a touch of ska and Caribbean rhythms, it became a global hit, reaching No.

2 on the U.S.

charts in 1984.

For those stepping into new environments at graduation, it’s a track that gives you the courage to move forward while staying true to yourself.

Its colorful fashion and lively music video are also unforgettable, celebrating the freedom of having fun with friends.

Always Be TogetherLittle Mix

Always Be Together

This is a friendship ballad from Little Mix’s debut album DNA that sings about the bond between friends as they graduate and go their separate ways.

Released in 2012, the song straightforwardly conveys an unending bond and a promise to meet again someday.

Lyrics about always being there in the wind and among the stars evoke a deep friendship that transcends distance.

The harmonies, layering the distinct voices of the four members, deliver the message of “let’s be friends for life” with even greater strength.

Its sweet, sincere expressions give it a warmth that gently settles into the heart.

It’s the perfect song for telling a friend who’s setting out on a new path that your feelings haven’t changed.