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

BreakawayKelly Clarkson

Kelly Clarkson – Breakaway (Official Video)

The song titled “Breakaway,” meaning “to fly away,” is perfect for graduation.

The lyrics—“I’ll do anything until I reach the sky; I’ll make wishes, take on challenges, and make changes”—convey a strong determination to chase dreams until they come true, and it makes me feel encouraged not to give up myself.

We Are GoldenMIKA

MIKA – We Are Golden

Since Mika’s songs are often used on TV and elsewhere, I imagine many people find the singing voice familiar.

In particular, the collaboration with Ariana Grande, Popular Song, became a huge hit worldwide.

This is a track Mika released in 2009.

Even from the music video, you can feel the youthful recklessness and fun coming through alongside the pop sound.

You Get What You GiveNew Radicals

New Radicals – You Get What You Give (Official Music Video)

The original song that was also used in the hit international TV series “Glee.” Its utterly upbeat sound and melody, along with bittersweet lyrics that might feel a bit cringey at times, will surely give you a push as you embark on a new chapter!

PhotographNickelback

Nickelback – Photograph

This song by the Canadian rock band Nickelback is a staple that almost always gets mentioned when introducing Western graduation songs.

Although it was released in 2005, it hasn’t lost its shine and still doesn’t feel dated today.

While many of their tracks lean heavily into hard rock, this one is a mellow rock ballad that really tugs at the heart.

The lyrics depict looking back on old memories while gazing at old photographs, and the line “goodbye” in the chorus is especially striking, making it a perfect fit for farewell moments during graduation season.

I’ll Be Missing YouPuff Daddy ft. Faith Evans & 112

I’ll Be Missing You – Puff Daddy & Faith Evans feat (112)

This song, performed by The Notorious B.

I.

G.

’s label mates and his wife as a tribute to the East Coast hip-hop legend, isn’t a graduation song, but I chose it as a song about parting ways.

Many of you may be separated from friends as you graduate, but I hope you’ll cherish each other, look forward to the day you reunite, and keep doing your best until then.

I Believe I Can FlyR. Kelly

R・ケリー – I Believe I Can Fly（歌詞付き）《日本語字幕》

This is a song used on the soundtrack of the 1996 film Space Jam, starring Michael Jordan.

It won three Grammy Awards in 1998.

It was also used as a wake-up call for astronauts.

It’s a track that brings to mind the pursuit of childhood dreams.

Fight SongRachel Platten

Rachel Platten – Fight Song (Official Video)

This is a song by Rachel Platten that sold over 2.

4 million copies in the United States.

It’s an anthem that encourages people facing fears and struggles as they head into their own lives after leaving school.

It was also used in Hillary Clinton’s 2016 U.

S.

presidential campaign.

In addition, an NBA Official mix tape video was made with the song, making it a major hit in America and around the world.