Western music entrance ceremony song rankings [2025]

One That Got AwayMichael Ray71rank/position

Michael Ray – “One That Got Away” (Official Music Video)

This is an uplifting song by Michael Ray, known as a country music singer, released in 2018 and recommended for graduation ceremonies.

Its refreshing sound perfectly matches his expansive vocal style.

Just listening to it can lift your spirits, so give it a try when you’re feeling down.

Also, don’t miss the cool guitar solo in the middle of the track.

I Can See Clearly NowJohnnyNash72rank/position

Johnny Nash – I Can See Clearly Now (Official Audio)

If you want to celebrate a new beginning with the arrival of spring, Johnny Nash’s “I Can See Clearly Now” is perfect.

Ever since its 1972 release, this timeless song has continued to shine, bringing light to listeners’ hearts like a clear sky after the rain.

In particular, its reggae-influenced rhythm and its positive message—“the rain is gone, I can make it”—carry hope for the new chapters ahead.

Singing of the refreshing feeling that comes after overcoming hardships, this track is an ideal anthem not only for newly enrolled students but for anyone embarking on a new challenge.

It’s a highly recommended song for graduation and entrance ceremonies as background music, and as a personal theme song when taking a new step in life!

New DayAlicia Keys73rank/position

Alicia Keys – New Day (Official Lyric Video)

You only live once, so let’s celebrate the brand-new day before us.

The world Alicia Keys paints with her lyrics is always easy to grasp and resonates with many people.

It’s a song that fits not only entrance ceremonies but anyone starting something new.

The ShowNiall Horan74rank/position

Niall Horan – The Show (Official Video)

A school entrance ceremony celebrates the first step into a new life that begins with the arrival of spring.

A perfect soundtrack for such a special day is the title track from Niall Horan’s new masterpiece The Show, released in 2023.

It’s a beautiful song that showcases Niall’s growth as a songwriter—a warm, heartfelt ballad that resonates with listeners.

His sincere reflections on life’s challenges and successes, and the delicate balance between them, will evoke deep empathy in those embarking on a new chapter.

Like the gentle sunshine of spring, it’s a highly recommended song to color the start of a new season.

It Is What It IsJenna Raine75rank/position

Jenna Raine – It Is What It Is (Official Music Video)

To everyone standing at the starting line of a new life, Jenna Raine’s song “It Is What It Is” teaches us the importance of living with a positive attitude no matter what.

Since its release on July 21, 2023, this track has drawn attention as a song brimming with forward-looking energy—perfect for celebrating the new beginning of an entrance ceremony.

While the title “It Is What It Is” can seem unclear if translated literally, it’s a common phrase native speakers use that means things like “It can’t be helped” or “That’s just how it is.” Sung over a sprightly guitar backing, the lyrics remind us of the value of a breezy kind of strength—the ability to say “It can’t be helped” even when things don’t go well.

Even if a lot of things don’t go your way, remember this song and enjoy your new days at your own pace!

Title HolderThe Interrupters76rank/position

The Interrupters – “Title Holder” (Lyric Video)

The Interrupters’ pop-punk track “Title Holder” is a refreshing song whose message—“Live with pride like a title holder!”—really fires you up.

With a lively sound that blends punk and rock ’n’ roll and emphasizes an offbeat rhythm, it’ll have you wanting to start dancing before you know it.

Just like in this song, it’d be great to aim for the top in your studies or club activities and become a title holder yourself!

Shake Your RumpBeastie Boys77rank/position

Shake Your Rump

This is “Shake Your Rump” by the American hip-hop group Beastie Boys.

The heavy synth sound is incredibly striking and cool, isn’t it? The rap spins out aggressively hip-hop-style lyrics one after another.

“So you don’t get pushed around at a new school” might be a thing of the past, but how about listening to a track like this as an entrance song?