Western graduation song ranking [2025]

RoarKaty Perry22rank/position

Katy Perry – Roar

A song filled with a powerful, radiant message of self-affirmation.

The lyrics, which depict the journey of breaking free from oppression and reclaiming one’s voice, are striking.

Released in August 2013, it was included on Katy Perry’s fourth album, Prism.

It became a global smash hit and was certified 15× Platinum in the United States in July 2024.

It’s perfect for anyone looking to regain confidence or take a bold new step.

As an empowerment anthem, it continues to inspire courage and hope in many people.

Wake Me UpAvicii23rank/position

Avicii – Wake Me Up (Official Video)

This song portrays the journey of life with themes of youth and self-discovery.

Its lyrics express moving forward through darkness and holding hope for the future, resonating deeply with listeners.

Released in June 2013 as a single from Avicii’s debut album “True,” it features a distinctive fusion of folk and EDM and became a worldwide hit, topping the charts in over 20 countries and surpassing 2 billion views on YouTube.

It’s a song that gives courage and hope to those graduating or stepping into a new stage of life.

We Are Young ft. Janelle MonáeFun24rank/position

Fun.: We Are Young ft. Janelle Monáe [OFFICIAL VIDEO]

Fun.

is an indie rock band formed around Nate Ruess, a member of the popular rock band The Format.

Released in 2011, their track We Are Young ft.

Janelle Monáe gained worldwide popularity, spending six weeks at number one on the U.

S.

charts and selling over 10 million copies globally.

The lyrics portray a man who still has feelings for a woman he has broken up with, but for some reason, the song is commonly used as a graduation anthem overseas.

I Gotta FeelingThe Black Eyed Peas25rank/position

The Black Eyed Peas – I Gotta Feeling (Official Music Video)

Released in 2009, this song is a single from The Black Eyed Peas’ fifth album, The E.

N.

D.

, and it’s an upbeat track.

The lyrics, which fit the song perfectly, encourage hitting the town to party hard—drinking, spending money, and blowing off steam.

It’s important for people to find healthy ways to relieve stress, isn’t it?

Born This WayLady Gaga26rank/position

Lady Gaga – Born This Way (Official Music Video)

Lady Gaga is known for her overwhelming performances and distinctive fashion.

Her 2011 release “Born This Way” is a song that gives you the strength to live boldly.

Listening to its pop melody and her powerful vocals makes you want to start dancing.

The lyrics, which teach the importance of walking the path you choose, will bolster your resolve as you head into the entrance ceremony.

It’s a number that lets you feel the way she has stayed true to herself without being swayed by others’ opinions.

Something BigShawn Mendes27rank/position

Shawn Mendes – Something Big (Official Music Video)

Singer-songwriter Shawn Mendes, who captivates women around the world with his sweet looks and catchy musicality, receives thunderous applause wherever he goes.

He’s also active as a fashion model, so many people probably recognize his face.

His track Something Big is known as one of his hit songs and gained worldwide popularity.

It carries a strong message of support for those heading into new environments, and overseas it’s known as a classic graduation song.

SingMy Chemical Romance28rank/position

My Chemical Romance – SING [Official Music Video]

My Chemical Romance, the hugely popular band that recently reunited and is scheduled to come to Japan, has long been supported by young people grappling with frustration.

While much of their worldview leans dark, the song introduced here, “Sing,” is a 2010 hit whose powerful lyrics feel like an anthem for boys and girls wrestling with life—an inspiring masterpiece.

Its unmistakably MCR anthemic melody and dramatic song structure can’t help but lift your spirits.

Incidentally, this track is also popular as a graduation song, and the band actually reworked it as “Sing It For Japan,” releasing a new version dedicated to those affected by the Great East Japan Earthquake.

It’s deeply moving to be reminded of MCR’s heartfelt spirit—beloved by Japan and loving Japan in return.