Tear-jerking friendship songs in Western music: recommended masterpieces and popular tracks

Graduation (Friends Forever)Vitamin C

Vitamin C – Graduation (Friends Forever) [Official Music Video]

When people hear “Vitamin C,” some might first think of the American singer-songwriter.

Colleen Fitzpatrick, who also works as a record producer and actress, adopted the stage name Vitamin C after serving as the vocalist of the band Eve’s Plum in the 1990s; following the band’s breakup, she made her solo debut as Vitamin C in 1999, scoring a smash hit with her pop-forward album ‘Vitamin C.

’ One of her signature songs, ‘Graduation (Friends Forever),’ is, as the title suggests, a friendship anthem themed around graduation—a mid-tempo ballad about bonds with friends that remain unchanged forever.

Its beautiful melody built on the so-called canon progression, refined strings, and hip-hop-style scratching give it a quintessential late-’90s sound that might feel fresh to today’s younger listeners.

Be sure to check out the music video too, which is said to feature actual graduation scenes!

Stand By MeOasis

Oasis – Stand By Me (Official Video)

A moving friendship song by Oasis that builds a solid foundation through a style combining pop-acoustic sounds with rock elements.

It’s crafted as a work that can be embraced by a wide range of generations, resulting in a deeply touching finish.

FriendsElton John

Elton John – Friends (1971) With Lyrics!

This is a moving friendship song by Elton John, who has produced many classic hits and possesses an exceptional sense of artistry, with the contrast to his tough persona adding to his appeal.

Its lyrical lines, which make you reflect on what true friendship really is, strike right at the heart, creating a mood that’s easy to embrace and enjoy.

My FriendsRed Hot Chili Peppers

Red Hot Chili Peppers – My Friends [Official Music Video]

A tear-jerking friendship song by the Red Hot Chili Peppers, who have cemented their position as a legendary rock band and promise lyrics that resonate convincingly with many.

It features a world steeped in pathos that draws out tears, with pent-up emotion welling up from within its high-energy sound.

Friend Of MineThe Notorious B.I.G.

The Notorious B.I.G. – Friend of Mine (Official Audio)

This is a moving friendship song by The Notorious B.

I.

G.

, affectionately known as Biggie, whose hardcore, husky-voiced rap exudes presence and has captivated countless hip-hop heads.

His heavy flow grips many fans, and the solid musicality creates an immersive world—an absolute masterpiece.

That’s What Friends Are For (featuring Stevie Wonder, Elton John, and Gladys Knight)Dionne Warwick

That’s What Friends Are For (Official Video)

Beloved around the world as a classic song of gratitude to friends, “That’s What Friends Are For (featuring Stevie Wonder, Elton John, and Gladys Knight)” is a piece composed by Burt Bacharach, who sadly passed away in 2023.

The version later covered by Dionne Warwick together with Stevie Wonder and Elton John is also highly recommended.

Its catchy melody and tender, heartfelt vocals became a sensation and continue to be loved across generations.

Back HomeAndy Grammer

Andy Grammer – Back Home (Official)

This is a moving friendship song by Andy Grammer, whose rugged yet commanding vocals have been drawing intense attention from hardcore music fans.

It portrays a sense of solitude, and its uniquely wistful musical sensibility effectively elevates the listener’s emotions, enhancing the overall impact of the track.