Graduation songs in Western music with great lyrics—heartfelt, beautiful messages.
When you hear “graduation songs” in Western music, what songs come to mind?
I bet many people find it surprisingly hard to think of any.
There are classic graduation songs overseas, too.
However, unlike in Japan, it’s not only globally famous songs that get used—more obscure tracks are also treated as staples.
That’s why it’s hard to picture them clearly.
So, this time…!
From among Western graduation songs, I’ve picked out ones with especially great lyrics!
I’ve chosen a wide range, from tracks with moving, emotional lyrics to songs with a fun, upbeat vibe, so be sure to read to the end!
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Graduation songs in Western music with great lyrics. Beautiful, touching messages (1–10)
The ClimbMiley Cyrus
Miley Cyrus is a multi-artist who rose to worldwide fame as the heroine of Disney Channel’s hit series Hannah Montana.
The Climb is a song from the era when she was active as the icon of Hannah Montana.
Even when you feel uncertain, the only thing to do is keep moving forward.
It’s a powerful number with memorable lyrics that carry that message.
The lyrics are perfect for graduation.
Be sure to check it out.
Good Riddance (Time of Your Life)Green Day
This is a song whose heartfelt words and warm melody gently embrace life’s turning points.
Featured on Green Day’s 1997 album Nimrod, it’s characterized by the soft tones of acoustic guitar and strings.
While accepting life’s uncertainties and farewells, it also sings of the importance of cherishing past experiences.
Loved as a classic that accompanies life’s milestones—such as graduations and weddings—it reached No.
2 on the U.
S.
Modern Rock chart.
Give it a listen when you want to look back on youthful memories or need the courage to take a new step forward.
You’re My Best FriendQueen
Queen, the world-famous rock band everyone knows.
Their friendship song, ‘You’re My Best Friend,’ as the title suggests, delivers lyrics that say you are my best friend with a message of love.
Because it uses many straightforward expressions, the lyrics are easy to understand even without a translation.
With many repeated phrases, you’ll find yourself humming along.
The melody, centered on electric piano, has a gentle feel, making it a good fit as background music for events like graduation ceremonies.
Graduation songs with great lyrics from Western music. Beautiful, moving messages (11–20)
UnwrittenNatasha Bedingfield
Natasha Bedingfield is a pop singer from London.
Her brother, Daniel Bedingfield, is also active as an artist.
She has released many catchy songs that even people who aren’t well-versed in music can enjoy, and she has several international hit songs.
“Unwritten” is one of her hits, featuring catchy lyrics that seem to give a push to those heading into a new environment.
It’s known overseas as a classic graduation song.
Forever YoungAlphaville
Alphaville is a band that debuted in 1984.
They’re from Germany and have international recognition as well as popularity at home.
Their biggest appeal is, above all, their electronic sound.
Their commitment to that sound is so strong that one member is dedicated solely to programming.
Their hit song Forever Young is known as their biggest success.
Its electronically tinged, serious, and emotional sound makes it a perfect fit for graduation ceremonies, so be sure to check it out.
GraduationVitamin C
When it comes to the most classic graduation song overseas, wouldn’t it be “Graduation”? The Japanese title is simply “Sotsugyo” (“Graduation”).
It’s a song with no quirks in a good way—both the melody and the lyrics are crafted in a very traditional, mainstream style.
It was released in 1999, and the music video might feel a bit dated, but the melody itself is solidly pop, so it shouldn’t feel all that old.
Definitely give it a listen.
Dog Days Are OverFlorence & The Machine
This song delivers a powerful message of hope, freedom, and liberation.
It captures the moment when hard times end and new happiness arrives, expressed through energetic rhythms and commanding vocals.
Released in 2009, it achieved global success.
Following a striking performance at the 2010 MTV Video Music Awards, downloads surged by 257% week over week.
The track was also featured on the soundtrack of Guardians of the Galaxy Vol.
3, bringing it renewed attention.
For anyone ready to let go of past burdens and sprint toward a new life, Florence and the Machine offers an anthem of encouragement.