It’s Graduation Day-yes, the long awaited day. You’ve got your cap, tassel, and scrapbooks full of pictures. You think about what you’ll be doing in a year’s time and how everything will change. Then, in an instant, all of the memories hit you at lightning speed. All at once, you’re excited, sad, confused. You’re graduating. Here are the top ten graduation songs:
1. Vitamin C – Graduation Song (Friends Forever)
A timeless classic for all graduates, this 2000 chart-topper brings out all of the wistful nostalgia that comes with moving on. From somber lyrics to soaring choruses, this sendoff is an absolute must for any graduation ceremony.
Appropriate for: Middle School, High School, College
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2. Sarah McLachlan – I Will Remember You
Though subtle, McLachlan’s best-known ballad croons the immortal words that speak volumes: “I will remember you/Will you remember me?” This tear-jerker is fitting for any closing montage or slideshow of memories.
Appropriate for: Middle School, High School, College
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3. Time Of Your Life – Green Day
This bittersweet bon voyage to the good times is perfect for closing remarks and slideshows at graduation parties. With the opening lines, “Another turning point/a fork stuck in the road”, this anthem couldn’t be more appropriate for the big transition.
Appropriate for: High School, College
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4. In My Life – The Beatles
This Beatles classic tells of growing pains and, well, growing-the struggles, the triumphs, and the milestones. Most of all, it beckons to old friends and loved ones, promising, “In my life, I’ll love you more.” Great for school choir soloists.
Appropriate for: High School, College
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5. Breakaway – Kelly Clarkson
This uplifting coming-of-age ballad really packs a punch. Kelly boldly croons, “I’ll spread my wings and I’ll learn how to fly.” A positive, powerful take on graduation: moving from a small town to the wider world. Great as a class-wide closing number.
Appropriate for: Middle School, High School
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6. I’m Not Gonna Cry – Corey Smith
What can I say? This song speaks for itself. With specific references, like “Friday night football games,” I’m Not Gonna Cry is sure to make you shed a tear or two-in a bittersweet, happy kind of way.
Appropriate for: High School
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7. The Climb – Miley Cyrus
A definite favorite with the younger generation, this modern pop ballad draws on hope and strength in the face of adversity. Definitely has a long-lasting, spirited message.
Appropriate for: High School and College
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8. We Are The Champions – Queen
This one needs no introduction. This well-known Queen number earns its bragging rights through its inspiring lyrics and powerhouse vocals. Theatrical and dramatic? Absolutely. That’s what makes it perfect for celebrating any graduation.
Appropriate for: Elementary School to College
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9. Will You Be There? – Michael Jackson
Upon first listen, you might ask, “What does this have to do with graduation?” The overall message is really just “being there” for each other, and it carries a very spiritual feel to it. Uplifting, powerful, and deep-this song speaks of friendships, lasting bonds, and (class) unity.
Appropriate for: Middle School, High School, College
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10. No Such Thing – John Mayer
A tad personal and specific, No Such Thing definitely resonates with the “outcasts”. This funkypop/rock, feel-good-about-myself number asserts how much better life gets in spite of obstacles. Definitely not a popular graduation song, but severely understated. Play it both during and after your graduation.
Appropriate for: High School
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