Western music entrance ceremony song rankings [2025]

Good Riddance (Time Of Your Life)Green Day43rank/position

Green Day – Good Riddance (Time of Your Life) [Official Music Video] [4K UPGRADE]

A song about turning points in things and in life.

Its theme fits graduation ceremonies, but I think it’s a song about beginnings that only a punk band—infused with Billie Joe Armstrong’s feelings after recovering from drugs—could truly sing.

yes, and?Ariana Grande44rank/position

Ariana Grande – yes, and? (official music video)

Ariana Grande’s “Yes, And?”, her first new song since the 2020 album Positions, was released in January 2024 and has generated major buzz.

Setting a brilliant record of 11.

2 million streams on Spotify on its first day, the track stands out with sharp lyrics over a dance-shuffle rhythm.

Its self-affirming message about facing daily criticism and challenges will be hugely encouraging for listeners embarking on a fresh start.

As the title suggests, no matter what people say or what difficulties arise, carry yourself with the strength to brush it off and thrive in your new chapter!

WhateverOasis45rank/position

Oasis – Whatever (Official Video)

At an entrance ceremony—a milestone moment in life—you naturally want to hear music that lifts your spirits.

“Whatever,” released in 1994 by the British rock band Oasis, is a song that makes you realize the importance of putting in the effort.

Its moving string arrangement is striking and gives the track a sense of expansiveness.

The lyrics, which tell you that you can become anything, offer hints for everyone about to throw themselves into clubs or studies.

It’s a number that will help students start their new lives feeling fresh and upbeat.

(You Gotta) Fight For Your Right (To Party)Beastie Boys46rank/position

Beastie Boys – (You Gotta) Fight For Your Right (To Party) (Official Music Video)

Beastie Boys, formed in 1978, created a timeless rock classic with “(You Gotta) Fight For Your Right (To Party).” The song carries the message, “Claim your right to enjoy life with your own hands,” making it a perfect track to listen to around entrance ceremony season.

Their raw, unpolished sound—something hard to find in many modern rock bands—will feel fresh even to young students!

TodayThe Smashing Pumpkins47rank/position

The Smashing Pumpkins – Today

It’s mid-tempo with a heavy sound, yet oddly light and refreshing—something only the Smashing Pumpkins could pull off.

It’s a song that sings about today being the best day, but behind that lies a theme of living each day without regret—a true blessing for those who are heading into what’s next.

CoolJonas Brothers48rank/position

Jonas Brothers – Cool (Official Video)

“Cool,” the 2019 track by the brother band Jonas Brothers.

Its laid-back mid‑tempo vibe makes it a perfectly cool rock tune.

Just like the lyrics, it’s a song that will lift your spirits as you step into a new world, making you feel reborn and ready to live your best every day!

We’ve Only Just BegunCarpenters49rank/position

carpenters -We’ve Only Just Begun

The Carpenters’ timeless classic “We’ve Only Just Begun,” released in 1970, is a perfect song for entrance ceremonies and has been loved across generations.

Brimming with hope for the start of a new chapter in life, the song carries a message that gives energy and courage to students embarking on their journey in a new environment.

Karen’s warm, heartfelt vocals and Richard’s sophisticated arrangements blend beautifully, and the track still has the power to connect with many people today.

For the unforgettable moment of an entrance ceremony, this is a must-listen for anyone beginning a new chapter in life.