Western graduation song ranking [2025]

GoodbyeSpice Girls43rank/position

Spice Girls – Goodbye (Official Music Video)

Spice Girls’ “Goodbye” is a must-listen for anyone who truly wants to say a heartfelt “goodbye” at graduation with no regrets.

The Spice Girls are an idol group, and this song’s emotions really match when girls are expressing their feelings to each other.

You might feel close one moment and awkward the next—whether it’s with the opposite sex or the same sex, that happens.

Just like this crisp, refreshing song, it might be nice to have a bright and uplifting graduation ceremony.

You’ve Got a Friend in MeRandy Newman44rank/position

Randy Newman – You’ve Got a Friend in Me (From “Toy Story 4″/Audio Only)

Many people will find themselves walking a different path from their friends at the time of graduation.

That’s why I’d love for you to listen to “You’ve Got a Friend in Me.” It’s a song by Randy Newman that celebrates unwavering friendship, and it’s well known as the theme song of the movie Toy Story.

You might actually find the Japanese cover title, “Kimi wa Tomodachi,” more familiar.

I recommend first getting to know the lyrics through “Kimi wa Tomodachi,” then listening to the original version.

Look What You’ve DoneDrake45rank/position

Look What You’ve Done

Drake’s classic “Look What You’ve Done.” You might wonder, “Do rappers even have songs themed around graduation?” While this track isn’t actually about graduation, it’s well known for being frequently played at graduation ceremonies overseas.

Its “tsundere”-style lyrics—maintaining a tough, streetwise vibe while clearly expressing gratitude to his mother—are especially memorable.

It’s a catchy piece crafted to be enjoyable for both hip-hop fans and those who usually aren’t into the genre.

Uptown Funk ft. Bruno MarsMark Ronson46rank/position

Mark Ronson – Uptown Funk (Official Video) ft. Bruno Mars

Characterized by energetic, danceable beats, this work captivated audiences around the world with its confident lyrics and catchy melody.

The track’s urban funk sound, influenced by 1980s Minneapolis funk, is the result of a brilliant collaboration between Mark Ronson and Bruno Mars.

Released in November 2014, it spent 14 consecutive weeks at number one on the U.

S.

charts, and later won the Grammy Award for Record of the Year.

It’s a song I highly recommend to anyone starting a new chapter in life, as it instills confidence and courage.

Counting StarsOneRepublic47rank/position

OneRepublic – Counting Stars

OneRepublic is a five-member rock band that enjoys strong support in the English-speaking world.

If you like alternative rock or pop rock, they’re a very famous band.

One of their hit songs, Counting Stars, is well known as a graduation song and gained popularity for lyrics that depict the struggles of teenagers.

You’re young, but not that much of a kid; you’re older, but not over the hill.

Pay attention to the uniquely teenage dilemmas and the lyrics that frame them in a positive light!

Baby ft. LudacrisJustin Bieber48rank/position

Justin Bieber – Baby ft. Ludacris

Is this before his voice changed? This track lets you hear Justin Bieber’s super cute vocals.

The lyrics are very much about romance, but the fact that it’s listed here means—yes—it can also be taken as a farewell song to a lover who’s graduating and going to a different school.

If that’s your situation, I definitely want you to give this song a listen.

Can’t Stop the Feeling!Justin Timberlake49rank/position

Justin Timberlake – CAN’T STOP THE FEELING! (from DreamWorks Animation’s “TROLLS”) (Official Video)

A song brimming with positive energy that makes listeners feel like they just have to dance.

Centered on the themes of joy and liberation felt throughout the whole body, it features simple, catchy lyrics and melodies.

Released in May 2016, it was also used on the soundtrack for the film Trolls.

It became Justin Timberlake’s fifth No.

1 single in the United States and achieved major international success.

It’s a recommended track for anyone starting a new chapter in life or looking for a mood boost.