[Bestie Song: Until We Meet Again...] The Perfect Western Songs for Graduation — Farewell and New Beginnings

These Are Days10,000 Maniacs

10,000 Maniacs – These Are Days

10,000 Maniacs, a band that supported alternative rock in the 1980s and ’90s.

Their 1992 release “These Are Days” is a song that lets you embrace graduation with a refreshing feeling.

The country-tinged instrumentation and comfortable drumming, along with a melody that sees graduates off as they embark on a new world, are truly beautiful.

Partings can bring a tinge of sadness or loneliness, but the uplifting lyrics and radiant sound will leave you feeling bright and positive!

Dream OnAerosmith

Aerosmith – Dream On (Live At Capitol Center, Largo, MD / November 9, 1978)

At first listen, it might sound like a very pessimistic song, far removed from the brightness of graduation.

The tone is dark, heavy, and quite a weighty listen.

However, in the end, Tyler sings a message: don’t give up on your dreams! Even when it comes to graduation, everyone has their own feelings, so there may be people for whom this song fits their graduation perfectly.

Stand By MeBen E. King

Ben E. King – Stand By Me Japanese Translation

It’s one of the signature songs by American R&B singer Ben E.

King, a classic that has been loved worldwide since its 1961 release.

In 1986 it became the theme song for the film of the same name, Stand by Me, and many musicians have covered it over the years, so many of you may already know it.

The song is notable for its lyrics expressing the desire to “stand by me,” as the title suggests.

It’s a perfect song for friends to sing together with the feeling, “Let’s stay close even after we graduate.”

Wind Beneath My WingsBette Midler

Bette Midler – Wind Beneath My Wings (Official Music Video)

This calm song, perfect for graduation ceremonies, is by American singer Bette Midler and was released in 1989.

Haven’t you ever had a friend who set their own needs aside to work behind the scenes for your success? This song expresses gratitude to those friends who devote themselves to helping others.

ViennaBilly Joel

Vienna-Billy Joel (Lyrics in Description)

It’s a very old song released in 1997, but it’s one you want to listen to at graduation ceremonies.

It’s from the generation of dads, moms, and teachers, yet Joel’s deep, rich voice really resonates.

The song looks back on childhood, when we were full of ambitions and big dreams, and Joel himself has cited it as one of his favorites.

Blowin’ In The WindBob Dylan

Bob Dylan – Blowin’ in the Wind (Official Audio)

Blowin’ In The Wind, the classic song included on Bob Dylan’s second album, The Freewheelin’ Bob Dylan, released in 1963.

Its lyrics, akin to Japan’s “Ai Sansan” in the way they convey a seasoned understanding of life, are masterfully crafted.

Coupled with Dylan’s characteristically catchy melody, the song gained popularity and worldwide recognition.

It’s a track with real depth, and I think it would even suit a graduation ceremony—be sure to give it a listen.

Never Say GoodbyeBon Jovi

Bon Jovi – Never Say Goodbye (Official Music Video)

Farewells are part and parcel of graduation, but it’s not an end—it’s a beginning.

That’s why we’re sure to meet our friends again, grown in new ways.

In that sense, this song, “We Won’t Say Goodbye,” really resonates.

It portrays memories from the past, and listening to it may bring back nostalgic recollections.

It’s a superb ballad and an all-time classic.