A lovely graduation song

Classic Western Songs to Gift for the 2025 Entrance Ceremony: For the Big Day

Active club DJKento
Active as a club DJ. Centered on dance music, they mix a wide range of genres including US hip-hop and J-rap, captivating audiences with their unique musical style.
music writerKOH-1
Started working as a music writer as a side job while employed at a record shop, and have been contributing to music magazines and web media for over 15 years. Although Western music is my main field, I always strive to stay curious with the motto, “I like what I like.” I have experience playing in a band, where I was a bassist responsible for songwriting and composition. Instruments I’ve performed on include bass, guitar, and piano. I resumed piano lessons after turning 40 and have been continuing ever since!

While there are plenty of straightforward entrance-themed songs, celebratory tracks, and pep anthems in J-pop that are perfect for entrance ceremonies—a major milestone for teens that arrives with spring—there are surely young music fans who are searching for Western music too.

In this article, we’ve selected hit songs and popular numbers from Western music that we highly recommend listening to as you head into your entrance ceremony.

From timeless classics to recent hits, we’ve put together a wide-ranging lineup that crosses eras and genres.

Be sure to use it as a reference!

On the Big Day: A Collection of Classic Western Songs to Gift at Entrance Ceremonies [2025] (21–30)

My ReplyThe Ataris

My Reply – The Ataris

My ReplyThe Ataris

A track created by vocalist Christopher Lowe under the themes of “a break with the past” and “a new beginning.” Among punk bands, they’ve performed in Japan quite often, so many listeners here may already be familiar with them.

With his slightly youthful appearance and deep, mature voice, the melody line is so beautiful you wouldn’t think it was from a punk band.

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FireworkKaty Perry

Katy Perry – Firework (Official Music Video)

FireworkKaty Perry

Let’s show everyone your true worth.

That’s the message packed into this song by pop singer Katy Perry.

The arrangement builds from live instruments and gradually raises the energy, making it a track that inspires you to do your best starting tomorrow.

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Hello HappinessChaka Khan

Chaka Khan – Hello Happiness (Audio)

Hello HappinessChaka Khan

Chaka Khan, an artist who has also enjoyed popularity in Japan, is known for delivering gentle performances with her powerful voice.

In Hello Happiness, her vocal prowess is on full display, offering an ease of listening even within its powerful atmosphere.

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Suddenly I SeeKT Tunstall

KT Tunstall – Suddenly I See (Larger Than Life Version)

Suddenly I SeeKT Tunstall

Scottish singer-songwriter KT Tunstall.

This song is one of her signature tracks and was used in the film The Devil Wears Prada—a quintessentially uplifting anthem.

With a beautiful melody reminiscent of British power pop and her powerful vocals, it’s sure to give you a push toward a fresh new start.

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FlyNicki Minaj ft. Rihanna

Nicki Minaj – Fly ft. Rihanna

FlyNicki Minaj ft. Rihanna

A true collaboration of today’s Black singer queens, Nicki Minaj and Rihanna.

It’s a song that celebrates hard workers who strive to move forward, even though the path is surely not an easy one.

It’s also a perfect track for freshmen about to embark on a new chapter.

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CoolJonas Brothers

Jonas Brothers – Cool (Official Video)

CoolJonas Brothers

“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!

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Stronger (What Doesn’t Kill You)Kelly Clarkson

Kelly Clarkson – Stronger (What Doesn’t Kill You) [Official Video]

Stronger (What Doesn't Kill You)Kelly Clarkson

This is a song by Kelly Clarkson that, in its lyrics, teaches “Don’t kill your own feelings! It’s what makes you stronger.” It’s also recommended for entrance ceremonies! The title “Stronger” ties in nicely, too.

It’s a bit old, but this track should appeal to just about everyone, don’t you think? By the way, the sound doesn’t feel dated at all.

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