20 Best Songs About Graduation

Nina Hampson

Graduation is a time of both joy and sadness. It’s a time to celebrate all that you’ve accomplished, but it’s also a time to say goodbye to the people and places that have been a part of your life for so long. And what better way to mark this special occasion than with music?

There are countless songs about graduation, but we’ve compiled a list of 20 of the best. From classic rock to contemporary pop, there’s something for everyone on this list. So crank up the tunes and get ready to celebrate!

By the way, if you’re a fan of songs about graduation, you might also enjoy songs about cups, songs about june, songs about legacy, songs about ohio, and songs about players.

Graduation (Friends Forever) – Vitamin C

Vitamin C - Graduation (Friends Forever) [Official Music Video]

Graduation (Friends Forever) is a song by Vitamin C. The song was released in June 2000 as the lead single from the album, More. It peaked at number 11 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in the United States, making it Vitamin C’s only top 40 hit in the country. The song talks about the speaker’s recollections of her time in high school and how she is going to miss her friends after graduation. The song became popular among graduates in North America during the early 2000s. It has been used in numerous graduation ceremonies and has been featured in films such as Legally Blonde, Recess: School’s Out, and 13 Going on 30.

Good Riddance – Green Day

Green Day - Good Riddance (Time of Your Life) [Official Music Video] [4K UPGRADE]

Good Riddance (Time of Your Life) is a song by American punk rock band Green Day. It was released as the second single from their fourth studio album, Nimrod (1997). The song is a power ballad with an acoustic guitar accompaniment and is one of the band’s most popular songs. It has been covered by many artists, including Jimmy Fallon, Ed Sheeran, and Taylor Swift. The song is typically played at graduation ceremonies, sporting events, and other occasions.

The lyrics of the song are about change and moving on from the past. The narrator looks back on their life with fondness, but they also recognize that it is time to move on. The song has been interpreted as being about the end of a relationship or the end of high school. Whatever the interpretation, the message of the song is clear: it is time to let go and move on to the next phase of life. Good Riddance is a song about hope, change, and new beginnings.

We Are Young (feat. Janelle Monáe) – fun.

Fun.: We Are Young ft. Janelle Monáe [OFFICIAL VIDEO]

“We Are Young” is a song by American rock band fun. It features vocals by Janelle Monáe and was released on September 20, 2011, as the lead single from their second studio album, Some Nights (2012). The song received positive reviews from music critics, with many praising Monáe’s guest vocals. “We Are Young” peaked at number one on the US Billboard Hot 100 and Digital Songs charts and topped the charts in several other countries, including Australia, Canada, Ireland, New Zealand, and the United Kingdom. The song has been certified six-times platinum by the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA).

The Climb – Miley Cyrus

Miley Cyrus - The Climb

The Climb is a song by American singer Miley Cyrus. The song was released as the lead single from Cyrus’ second studio album, Breakout (2008). The Climb is a power ballad with lyrics that describe life as a journey and overcoming obstacles. The song achieved commercial success, peaking at number four on the Billboard Hot 100 in the United States and becoming Cyrus’ first top ten single as a solo artist. In the United Kingdom, the song peaked at number 33, making it Cyrus’ highest-charting single in the country at the time. 

Don’t You (Forget About Me) – Simple Minds

Simple Minds - Don't You (Forget About Me)

Don’t You (Forget About Me) is a song by the Scottish rock band Simple Minds. It was released in 1985 as the lead single from the soundtrack to the film The Breakfast Club. The song became a global hit, reaching number one in the United States, Canada, Ireland, and New Zealand. In the UK, it peaked at number seven. The song has been widely interpreted as being about graduation, with the lyrics referencing the pain of leaving friends and loved ones behind as one embarks on a new chapter in life. While it is often played at high school and college graduation ceremonies, the song also resonates with anyone who has experienced loss or change.

See You Again – Wiz Khalifa

Wiz Khalifa - See You Again ft. Charlie Puth [Official Video] Furious 7 Soundtrack

“See You Again” is a song by American rapper Wiz Khalifa, featuring American singer Charlie Puth. The track was commissioned for the soundtrack of the 2015 film Furious 7 as a tribute to the late actor Paul Walker, who died in a single-vehicle crash on November 30, 2013. The song was released on March 10, 2015, and topped the Billboard Hot 100 chart for 12 non-consecutive weeks. The song also peaked at number one in several other countries including Australia, Canada, Ireland, New Zealand, and the United Kingdom. In the United States, “See You Again” became both Khalifa’s and Puth’s biggest single to date. It is also the best-selling rap song of all time worldwide. 

Firework – Katy Perry

Katy Perry - Firework (Official Music Video)

Firework by Katy Perry is a song about graduation and the beginning of a new chapter in life. The lyrics encourage listeners to “ignite the light” and “let your colors burst” as they step into the world on their own. The song celebrates individuality and the potential for greatness that lies within each person. It is an anthem of hope and encouragement, urging listeners to follow their dreams and reach for the stars. Firework is a perfect soundtrack for any graduate embarking on their next adventure. It is a reminder that no matter what life throws their way, they have the strength to overcome it and shine bright.

Unwritten – Natasha Bedingfield

Natasha Bedingfield - Unwritten ((Official Video) (as featured in Anyone But You))

“Unwritten” is a song by English singer-songwriter Natasha Bedingfield. The song was released in the United Kingdom on 10 October 2004 as the lead single from her debut studio album Unwritten (2004). It was written by Bedingfield, Danielle Brisebois, and Wayne Wilkins, and produced by the latter. The song is an uptempo pop track with elements of dance-pop. Musically, it revolves around an up-tempo melody accompanied by instrumentation from keyboards, drums, and guitars. The lyrics are based on Bedingfield’s personal experiences and aspirations and speak of empowerment and self-belief.

I Was Here – Beyoncé

Beyoncé - I Was Here (United Nations World Humanitarian Day Performance Video)

“I Was Here” is a song by Beyoncé from her fourth studio album, 4. The song was written by Diane Warren and produced by Ryan Tedder. It was released on August 2, 2011, as a promotional single in the lead-up to the album’s release. The song peaked at number78 on the US Billboard Hot 100 and entered the top 40 of the UK Singles Chart. “I Was Here” is a ballad with lyrics that speak of Beyoncé’s life and her hopes for the future. The song has been described as an anthem for graduation. The lyrics are about making a mark on the world and leaving a legacy.

We Are The Champions – Queen

Queen - We Are The Champions (Live)

We Are The Champions is a song by the British rock band, Queen. The song was written by lead singer Freddie Mercury and released on their album News of the World in 1977. The song has been used extensively in popular culture, including as the theme song for the film Rocky III and as the unofficial anthem of the English football team. The song is also frequently played at graduation ceremonies, signifying the end of one journey and the beginning of another. With its powerful lyrics and rousing melody, We Are The Champions is an empowering song that celebrates overcoming adversity and achieving success.

Here’s To The Night – Eve 6

Eve 6 - Here's To The Night

Here’s To The Night by Eve 6 is a song about graduation. The lyrics talk about how the speaker is looking forward to the future and how they are going to miss the good times they had in the past. The song is set to a fast-paced, upbeat tempo which makes it perfect for Graduation ceremonies. It’s a song that celebrates the end of one chapter in life and looks forward to the next one.

I Will Remember You – Sarah McLachlan

sarah mclachlan - i will remember you

“I Will Remember You” is a song written by Sarah McLachlan, originally released on her 1995 album Fumbling Towards Ecstasy. The song was McLachlan’s breakout hit in North America, reaching the top 40 of the Billboard Hot 100 chart and becoming one of her signature songs. The lyrics of “I Will Remember You” reflect on the emotions experienced during graduation, as students move on to the next phase of their lives. The song celebrates the friendships made during school days, while also acknowledging the sadness of saying goodbye. With its poignant lyrics and stirring melody, “I Will Remember You” is a timeless ode to the graduates of every generation.

Don’t Stop Believin’ – Journey

Journey - Don't Stop Believin' (Official Audio)

Don’t Stop Believin’ by Journey is a popular song often associated with graduation. The song was released in 1981 as part of the album Escape and quickly became a top 10 hit. It has since been covered by numerous artists and featured in many movies and TV shows. The lyrics of the song are focused on hope and perseverance, themes that are particularly relevant to graduates. The opening lines say “Just a small town girl/ Livin’ in a lonely world/ She took the midnight train goin’ anywhere.” This sets the stage for a story of someone who is looking for something more than what their current situation offers.

Whenever You Remember – Carrie Underwood

Whenever You Remember

Carrie Underwood’s “Whenever You Remember” is a song about graduation that was released in 2005. The song reflects on all the memories of college and how the speaker will never forget them. It also talks about how the speaker is moving on to the next phase in their life. The song is very relatable to anyone who has graduated or is about to graduate. It is a reminder that although college is ending, the memories will last forever. “Whenever You Remember” is a sweet and sentimental song that captures the feeling of nostalgia. It is a perfect song for anyone who wants to remember their time in college.

Graduation – Benny Blanco And Juice WRLD

benny blanco, Juice WRLD - Graduation (Official Music Video)

Graduation is a song by Benny Blanco and Juice WRLD. The song is about graduation and the different emotions that come with it. The song starts off with the line “I remember when I graduated”, which sets the tone for the rest of the song. The song talks about the different emotions that come with graduating, such as happiness, sadness, excitement, and fear. The song ends with the line “But now I’m ready for what’s next”, which shows that the singer is ready to move on from this chapter in their life. Overall, Graduation is a song that captures the different emotions that come with this milestone event.

Breakaway – Kelly Clarkson

Kelly Clarkson - Breakaway (VIDEO)

Breakaway is a song by Kelly Clarkson that was released in 2004. The song is about graduation and moving on to the next phase of life. For many people, graduation is a time of both excitement and nervousness. It can be a time of great opportunity, but it can also be a time of uncertainty. The lyrics of Breakaway reflect these mixed emotions, with lines like “It’s time to see what I can do” and “I just wanna be free.” However, the overall message of the song is one of hope and determination. Despite the challenges that may lie ahead, the singer is determined to “break away” and make her own way in the world. This sentiment is sure to resonate with anyone who is facing a major life transition.

A Moment Like This – Kelly Clarkson

Kelly Clarkson - A Moment Like This (VIDEO)

A Moment Like This is a song by American singer Kelly Clarkson. The song was written by Jörgen Elofsson and John Reid, and produced by Simon Foster and Steve Mac. It was released as a single in the United States on September 17, 2002, by RCA Records, eight weeks after being announced as the winner of the first season of American Idol. The song peaked at number one on the Billboard Hot 100 chart, becoming Clarkson’s debut single and her first number-one single in the United States.

I Gotta Feeling – Black Eyed Peas

There You'll Be (2007 Remaster)

There You’ll Be is a song by American country pop singer Faith Hill. The lyrics of There You’ll Be describe graduation day, and how the narrator will always remember their graduations because it is a time when they felt proud and accomplished. The song reflects on how graduation is a time to look to the future with hope and excitement. It also speaks to how graduation can be a time of sadness and change, as it marks the end of one chapter in life and the beginning of another. There You’ll Be ultimately speaks to how graduation is a day that will always be remembered, no matter what happens in life after graduation.

Started From the Bottom – Drake

Drake - Started From The Bottom

The song “Started From the Bottom” by Drake is a popular hip-hop song that was released in 2013. The song is about graduation, and it tells the story of how Drake started out at the bottom and worked his way up to where he is now. The song is very motivational, and it has a strong beat that makes it perfect for working out or driving. The lyrics are also very relatable, and many people can identify with the story that Drake is telling. The song has been very successful, and it has helped to propel Drake to the top of the charts.

I Hope You Dance – Lee Ann Womack

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

The song “I Hope You Dance” by Lee Ann Womack is a song about graduation and the hope that students have for their future. The lyrics talk about how the world is a demanding place and how graduates need to be prepared for what lies ahead. The song also talks about how important it is to follow your dreams and never give up on yourself. The song is motivating and inspiring, and it is a perfect song for graduation. The lyrics are full of hope and positivity, and they remind graduates that they can accomplish anything they set their minds to. The song is a reminder that life is full of possibilities, and it is an excellent song to motivate and inspire graduates as they begin their journey into the world.