Farewell and goodbye songs in Western music: A roundup of perfect BGM for farewell parties

A Thousand MilesVanessa Carlton

Vanessa Carlton – A Thousand Miles

A hit song released in 2002 by popular singer-songwriter Vanessa Carlton.

With its beautiful, memorable melody, it’s a signature track that defines her.

Some people may have discovered it through ONE OK ROCK’s cover.

It’s a good one to sing while conveying the lonely feelings of those left behind as someone departs.

Going Away to Collegeblink-182

blink 182 going away to college lyrics

Among the many pop-punk bands from California, USA, Blink-182 had tremendous support from young people at the time, thanks in part to their goofy music videos.

This song of theirs is themed around a girlfriend who’s heading far away to attend college.

Never Say GoodbyeBon Jovi

Bon Jovi – Never Say Goodbye (Official Music Video)

It’s lonely to part ways with friends after graduating from school, isn’t it? That’s why I’d like to introduce ‘Never Say Goodbye.

‘ This is a song by the world-famous rock star Bon Jovi.

It portrays high school graduates reminiscing about their memories and feeling reluctant to say goodbye.

But it’s not a sad song—just as the title suggests, the lyrics vow to meet again.

It’s a very slow-tempo ballad, so try playing it when you want to relax.

FireworkKaty Perry

Katy Perry – Firework (Official Music Video)

When our environment changes, I think everyone feels anxious.

Sometimes we become negative and lose confidence.

For people going through that, Katy Perry created “Firework” as a message song.

In the track, she sings messages like “let’s overcome our fears” and “you are one of a kind.” Try playing it when you want to amp up a farewell party, with its club-style sound and uplifting vibe.

Angels Like YouMiley Cyrus

Miley Cyrus – Angels Like You (Official Video)

Angels Like You, played with a plaintive melody that seeps into the heart, is a work that candidly reflects her own experiences.

The melody Miley Cyrus brings to life intertwines hope and wistfulness, transforming parting into a sad yet beautiful moment.

It’s a perfect song for seasons of farewell—like retirement or graduation—and its sound feels close to the listener’s heart.

The song’s emotional power overlays memories of loved ones and gently expresses the complex feelings of those who must say goodbye.

The lyrical world, woven by Miley Cyrus’s distinctive voice, makes it the ideal BGM to tenderly wrap one’s thoughts for those who are moving on.

Without You ft. Sandro CavazzaAvicii

Avicii, Sandro Cavazza – Without You “Audio”

Avicii, one of the most influential music producers of the 2010s, wasn’t just active as a DJ or composer—he also had elements of a singer, making him an artist with many highly catchy tracks.

Among his works, the song I particularly recommend for farewells and send-offs is “Without You ft.

Sandro Cavazza.” The lyrics, which portray the anguished cry of someone facing a parting, leave a strong impression.

I’ll Be Missing YouPuff Daddy ft. Faith Evans & 112

Puff Daddy [feat. Faith Evans & 112] – I’ll Be Missing You (Official Music Video)

I’ll Be Missing You, still remembered today as a timeless classic, was released in 1997 and features a star-studded lineup including Sean Combs—better known as Puff Daddy—Faith Evans, and the R&B group 112.

The song was created in the wake of the assassination of their friend, the Notorious B.

I.

G.

, known as Biggie.

As a poignant tribute mourning a lost friend, it’s a perfect fit for a farewell gathering where tears are sure to be shed.