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

You’ve got a friendCarole King

Carole King, You’ve got a friend

Goodbyes are part and parcel of graduation season.

This is the perfect song I want to send to all the friends I’m with right now.

Friends from our youth are people we tend to see less often once we become adults.

The lyric, “I’m always thinking of you; no matter when, I’ll be there to support you,” is incredibly reassuring, and the more you read it, the more it brings you to tears.

When We Were YoungAdele

Adele – When We Were Young (Live at The Church Studios)

A singer from Tottenham in London, Adele, with her gentle, husky-voiced “When We Were Young.” It’s a song that makes you look back on those days and really take your time listening.

An overwhelming ballad whose steady, powerful, slow stride of a tempo draws you in completely.

RoarKaty Perry

Katy Perry – Roar

A song filled with a powerful, radiant message of self-affirmation.

The lyrics, which depict the journey of breaking free from oppression and reclaiming one’s voice, are striking.

Released in August 2013, it was included on Katy Perry’s fourth album, Prism.

It became a global smash hit and was certified 15× Platinum in the United States in July 2024.

It’s perfect for anyone looking to regain confidence or take a bold new step.

As an empowerment anthem, it continues to inspire courage and hope in many people.

You Raise Me UpCeltic Woman

Celtic Woman – You Raise Me Up (Live)

The famous song “You Raise Me Up,” created by the Irish duo Secret Garden.

It’s often mistaken as originally by Celtic Woman, but that’s actually not the case.

This time, instead of the original, I’ve chosen to highlight Celtic Woman’s version.

It features a highly emotional arrangement, making it perfect for a moving graduation ceremony.

The lyrics are also incredibly touching, so it might be interesting to include a Japanese translation of them as well.

1999Prince

Prince – 1999 (Official Music Video)

Born against the backdrop of 1980s eschatology and the threat of nuclear war, this song is known as one of Prince’s signature works.

Its message of “enjoy the moment” is expressed through a synth riff and danceable beat that captivate listeners.

Released in October 1982, it climbed high on the Billboard charts, and the airing of its promotional video on MTV dramatically boosted Prince’s profile.

Offering hope to those weighed down by anxiety and fear, and underscoring the importance of enjoying life, this track is a powerful companion for graduations and new beginnings alike.

I Hope You DanceLee Ann Womack

Lee Ann Womack – I Hope You Dance (Official Music Video)

This is a mid-tempo ballad by American country music singer-songwriter Lee Ann Womack.

The gently sung melody and her clear, transparent voice make it a truly beautiful number.

The figurative lyrics are compelling, and it’s also a song that’s fun to read through and interpret.

How Far We’ve ComeMatchbox Twenty

Matchbox Twenty – How Far We’ve Come (Official Video) [HD Remaster]

Matchbox Twenty is a band from Florida that has sold 39 million records worldwide.

They are highly acclaimed not only in the United States but also in other English-speaking countries such as Australia, Canada, and New Zealand.

Their song How Far We’ve Come is one of their classics; released in 2007, it ranked high on various charts across the English-speaking world.

The lyrics are uplifting and motivating—perfect for graduation ceremonies!