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)
High HopesPanic! At The Disco
Panic! at the Disco is a band that made a major impact on society.
With striking lyrics and catchy melodies, they gained popularity and earned high international acclaim.
At one point, their strong influence even drew criticism from those who feared they might negatively affect young people.
That’s how powerful a group they were.
“High Hopes” is one of their hit songs, carrying a powerful message that feels like it gives graduates a push as they step into a new world.
my futureBillie Eilish
Billie Eilish’s “my future” is a song born during the pandemic, and its hopeful message is striking.
While Billie Eilish is known for her introspective lyrics, “my future” is different.
Its charm lies above all in lyrics that depict a shining future, centered on themes of self-affirmation and personal growth.
As you embark on a new chapter in life, this song offers truly empowering encouragement.
Listening to this track—where wistfulness and hope for the future coexist—will give you the courage to take a step forward into what lies ahead.
Count on MeBruno Mars
As graduation approaches, we often find ourselves thinking more about our friends.
Sometimes we may even wonder what a true friend really is.
Bruno Mars gives us an answer in his song “Count on Me.” In the lyrics, a friend is portrayed as someone who will help you no matter what and will never abandon you.
It’s a beautiful answer, isn’t it? Listening to this song will surely make you appreciate the value of having true friends.
Graduationbenny blanco, Juice WRLD
This song vividly portrays the end of youth and the beginning of a new life.
It weaves together memories of high school, friendship, and a mix of anxiety and hope for the future, conveying the complex feelings of young people facing graduation.
Created through the collaboration between Benny Blanco and Juice WRLD, it was released in August 2019 and made waves on charts worldwide.
It’s recommended listening for graduation ceremonies or other life milestones.
It will also resonate when you want to look back on the past while facing forward.
The realistic lyrics that resonate with young people and the melodious composition are beautifully in harmony.
Castle On The HillEd Sheeran
A song packed with touching nostalgia and the glow of youth.
Woven by Ed Sheeran with love for his hometown, this piece vividly portrays youthful memories that anyone can relate to.
Released in January 2017 as the lead single from the album ‘÷’, it became a global hit, reaching No.
2 on the UK Singles Chart and No.
6 on the U.
S.
Billboard chart.
It’s the perfect track for those who reminisce about their hometown’s scenery and memories with friends, as well as for those taking a new step forward.
Why not look back on a page of your youth etched in your heart together with this song?
How to Save a LifeThe Fray
This song, marked by a soothing piano melody, depicts the difficult moments in life.
The lyrics portray the anguish of trying to save friends or family without knowing how, resonating deeply with listeners.
Released in September 2005 as the title track of The Fray’s debut album, it became a major hit, reaching No.
3 on the Billboard charts.
It also gained further attention after being featured on the popular TV drama Grey’s Anatomy.
It’s a song I highly recommend to anyone struggling or hoping to support someone they care about.
It’s TimeImagine Dragons
Imagine Dragons, known as a representative alternative rock band, have gained worldwide popularity, with total global sales of 47 million records.
Their song “It’s Time” is one of their hits, released in 2012.
Featuring a quintessential alternative rock sound and lyrics about growing in a new environment, it became popular and, though not very common, is sometimes used at graduation ceremonies.