Graduation songs in Western music with great lyrics—heartfelt, beautiful messages.

ComplicatedAvril Lavigne

Avril Lavigne Complicated Lyrics with Japanese Translation

Avril Lavigne is a singer from Canada.

This song was the first single she released in 2002.

“Be yourself,” Avril says in the song.

If you realize you’ve been worrying too much about what others think and have lost your true self, I hope you’ll remember this song.

Cherish who you are.

FifteenTaylor Swift

Taylor Swift – Fifteen

It’s a masterpiece that beautifully captures both the brilliance and fragility of youth.

From the start of high school to friendship, first love, and heartbreak, it delicately sings about the subtle emotions of teenage girls.

Told from Taylor Swift’s down-to-earth perspective, the lyrics are sure to resonate with younger listeners.

Featured on the album Fearless, released in November 2008, this song shines with her sincere artistry.

It’s a track you’ll want to listen to when reminiscing about someone special or standing at a crossroads in life.

Bridge over Troubled WaterSimon&Garfunkel

Simon & Garfunkel – Bridge over Troubled Water (from The Concert in Central Park)

This is a work released in 1970 by the American male duo Simon & Garfunkel.

With a very beautiful melody line, this piece conveys the moving sentiment of being willing to lay oneself down like a bridge over troubled waters to save a friend in distress.

Something BigShawn Mendes

Shawn Mendes – Something Big (Official Music Video)

Singer-songwriter Shawn Mendes, who captivates women around the world with his sweet looks and catchy musicality, receives thunderous applause wherever he goes.

He’s also active as a fashion model, so many people probably recognize his face.

His track Something Big is known as one of his hit songs and gained worldwide popularity.

It carries a strong message of support for those heading into new environments, and overseas it’s known as a classic graduation song.

You’ve Got a Friend in MeRandy Newman

Randy Newman – You’ve Got a Friend in Me (From “Toy Story 4″/Audio Only)

Many people will find themselves walking a different path from their friends at the time of graduation.

That’s why I’d love for you to listen to “You’ve Got a Friend in Me.” It’s a song by Randy Newman that celebrates unwavering friendship, and it’s well known as the theme song of the movie Toy Story.

You might actually find the Japanese cover title, “Kimi wa Tomodachi,” more familiar.

I recommend first getting to know the lyrics through “Kimi wa Tomodachi,” then listening to the original version.

In My LifeThe Beatles

In My Life (Remastered 2009)

A mid-period masterpiece by The Beatles.

It was included on the 1965 album Rubber Soul.

The vocals are by John Lennon, who sings: although there are memories tied to things that have changed, things that haven’t, things eternal, and things that have passed, all of them fade into the background in the presence of you.

Story of My LifeOne Direction

One Direction – Story of My Life

It’s a song whose meaning subtly changes depending on the listener’s interpretation.

It was released as a single from One Direction’s 2013 album Midnight Memories.

Often called 1D, they are a globally popular group from the UK.

Owing to their explosive popularity, they are sometimes referred to as “the Beatles of the 21st century.”