Western graduation song ranking [2025]

HaloBeyoncé50rank/position

Beyoncé – Halo

When people think of Beyoncé, I think many imagine intense songs like the ones Naomi Watanabe dances to, but this track is distinguished by Beyoncé’s mystical vocals.

It’s a song that makes you feel supported—past, present, and future—and it fills you with courage.

7 YearsLukas Graham51rank/position

Lukas Graham – 7 Years [Official Music Video]

Lukas Graham’s “7 Years” is a song about growing older.

It’s a very heartwarming ballad that makes you look back on the past and feel sentimental.

How have you changed from when you first started school to when you graduate? I imagine you’ve made lots of friends and become better at studying.

Sometimes it might be nice to listen to this song and look back on those days.

CongratulationsPost Malone ft. Quavo52rank/position

Post Malone – Congratulations (Official Music Video) ft. Quavo

Post Malone, a popular rapper with rock star charisma who headlined the main stage at Summer Sonic 2022 and moved a massive crowd with just his voice, remains unforgettable.

His vocals and honest lyrics resonate with many, and “Congratulations,” released in 2017, is known as one of his signature hits that became a global success.

Featuring rapper Quavo, the track’s trap-based sound and Malone’s characteristically emotional melodies alone could bring you to tears.

Yet the word “congratulations” in the title also carries a hint of irony—being celebrated by people whose attitudes changed once he found success.

Even as he sings about achieving his dream while being told he’s changed, even by his mother, there’s a certain naive melancholy that lingers.

Still, for young people who’ve just graduated and are not yet anything in society, the message will surely give them the courage to move forward with hope.

It’s My LifeBon Jovi53rank/position

Bon Jovi – It’s My Life (Official Music Video)

When I’m feeling nervous or anxious before a big moment, the song that gives me courage is “It’s My Life.” Released in 2000 by the American rock band Bon Jovi, it’s a track loved by many.

Its hard rock-driven performance pairs perfectly with an easy-to-listen-to pop melody.

The lyrics, which depict living in the moment and continuing to take on challenges, are perfect for anyone about to give their all in club activities or studies! It’s a standout number not only for its life-affirming message but also as an anthem of encouragement.

MemoriesMaroon 554rank/position

Maroon 5 – Memories (Official Video)

Maroon 5 is a band with a unique musical style that has gained international popularity.

They’re artists who have stayed at the forefront of the scene for many years.

Over their long career, they’ve changed styles several times—early on they released stylish alternative rock, and in the mid-period they put out more pop-oriented works.

Their song “Memories” is from that mid-period; its lyrics that look back on memories became very popular and it turned into a global hit.

Be sure to check it out.

AlwaysBon Jovi55rank/position

Bon Jovi – Always (Official Music Video)

This is a song that was included as a new track on the best-of album released in 1994 by the globally popular hard rock band Bon Jovi.

It tells the story of a man who vows to keep thinking of his departed lover forever.

While it is a song of tragic love, its heartfelt and dramatic style also seems well-suited as a graduation song.

Dancing QueenABBA56rank/position

ABBA – Dancing Queen (Official Music Video)

You want to welcome brand-new days with a positive mindset, right? “Dancing Queen” is such a catchy song it’ll make you want to walk all the way to school with a spring in your step.

Released in 1976 by the Swedish pop group ABBA, it’s been covered by many Japanese artists.

Its bright, poppy synth sound and their refreshing vocals are truly soothing.

The lyrics—encouraging you to forget the little things, dance, and have fun—speak to everyone enjoying a vibrant school life.

It’s a song that makes you crave the feelings and experiences you can only have when you’re young!