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 with great lyrics from Western music. Beautiful, moving messages (11–20)
We Are Young ft. Janelle MonáeFun
Fun.
is an indie rock band formed around Nate Ruess, a member of the popular rock band The Format.
Released in 2011, their track We Are Young ft.
Janelle Monáe gained worldwide popularity, spending six weeks at number one on the U.
S.
charts and selling over 10 million copies globally.
The lyrics portray a man who still has feelings for a woman he has broken up with, but for some reason, the song is commonly used as a graduation anthem overseas.
Burn This CityCartel
Cartel is a punk band known for their gentle vocals.
Their song “Burn This City” is perfect for graduation.
It’s a drum and bass rock track, and the lyrics capture the feelings of students on the verge of graduating.
Rather than being somber, it celebrates the excitement of stepping out into the wider world, which is great.
As graduation approaches, it’s easy to feel a bit fragile, but listening to this song might help you stay positive.
That’s What Friends Are ForDionne Warwick
It’s nice to let old memories blossom while listening to a smooth ballad, isn’t it? In that spirit, I’d love for you to hear “That’s What Friends Are For.” The original was sung by Rod Stewart, but you might be more familiar with the later cover versions by Dionne Warwick and Stevie Wonder.
The song celebrates a friendship that never changes, no matter what happens.
Enjoy the star-studded collaboration and take a moment to listen closely to the lyrics.
You’ve Got a FriendCarole King
Carole King’s classic “You’ve Got a Friend.” Released in 1971, it became a hit in Japan as well and is an internationally celebrated song.
Thanks to its fame and musical brilliance, it also won the Grammy Award for Song of the Year.
The title means exactly what it says: “You’ve got a friend.” Its lyrics, which portray the bond with a cherished friend, and its gentle melody leave a strong impression.
Donny Hathaway’s version is also highly recommended, so be sure to check that out too!
Stand by MeBen E. King
The soul music classic “Stand by Me” has gained international popularity.
It’s a huge favorite in Japan as well.
Originally a love song, after it was used as the theme song for the 1986 film of the same name, it came to be cherished as a timeless track that evokes youth.
Although this masterpiece has been covered by numerous artists, this time we’re highlighting the most classic arrangement by Ben E.
King.
See You Again ft. Charlie PuthWiz Khalifa
Paul Walker, who shone as the lead in the car-action film series Fast & Furious.
The song See You Again ft.
Charlie Puth is a renowned tribute created when Paul Walker tragically passed away in an accident.
It portrays the heartbreaking feelings of those left behind after losing a dear friend.
Although it is a song about parting through death, it seems to be commonly used as a standard song for graduation ceremonies overseas.
Be sure to check out the Japanese translation as well.
Graduation songs in Western music with great lyrics. Beautiful, heartfelt messages (21–30)
Believe ItCimorelli
Cimorelli is a six-member female group from the United States.
They mainly uploaded covers of other artists’ songs on YouTube, which gained popularity and made them famous.
They are six real-life sisters, and each of them can play an instrument.
In this song, they call out, “Time isn’t infinite.
Now is the time to raise your voice and step out.
Believe!”