Graduation is a significant event in one’s life, marking the end of an educational chapter and the beginning of new opportunities. Musicians have created a diverse range of songs that capture the emotions, hopes, and memories associated with this momentous occasion. Here are 12 songs that pay homage to graduation.
12 Songs About Graduation to Play on Your Last Day
1. “Pomp and Circumstance March No. 1” – Edward Elgar
This classic piece is almost synonymous with graduation ceremonies around the world. Its stately and ceremonial melody, with a strong, marching rhythm, sets a solemn and celebratory tone. The music’s grandeur reflects the importance of the occasion, as graduates walk across the stage to receive their diplomas, marking the successful completion of their educational journey.
2. “Ain’t No Mountain High Enough” – Marvin Gaye and Tammi Terrell
This soul – filled song can be seen as an anthem for graduates. The lyrics, “Ain’t no mountain high enough. Ain’t no valley low enough. Ain’t no river wide enough. To keep me from getting to you” can be interpreted as the determination of graduates to overcome any obstacles in their post – graduation lives. It’s a song that instills a sense of hope and confidence, suggesting that they can achieve their goals, no matter how difficult the path may seem.
3. “I Hope You Dance” – Lee Ann Womack
This country – pop song is a beautiful encouragement for graduates to embrace life. The lyrics, “I hope you never lose your sense of wonder. You get your fill to eat but always keep that hunger. May you never take one single breath for granted. God forbid love ever leave you empty – handed” urge graduates to live life to the fullest, take risks, and not be afraid to pursue their dreams. It’s a song that celebrates the new beginning that graduation represents.
4. “Don’t Stop Believin'” – Journey
The lyrics, “Just a small – town girl, living in a lonely world. She took the midnight train going anywhere. Just a city boy, born and raised in South Detroit. He took the midnight train going anywhere” in this classic rock song can be related to the journey of graduates. They are often on the verge of leaving their familiar surroundings and embarking on an unknown adventure. The anthemic melody and the inspiring message make it a popular choice for graduation playlists.
5. “Here’s to the Night” – Eve 6
This song is a nostalgic look at the end of an era, much like graduation. The lyrics, “Here’s to the night. Here’s to the memories we leave behind. Here’s to the night. Here’s to the joy and the tears we cry” capture the bittersweet feeling of saying goodbye to school days while also looking forward to the future. It’s a song that can make graduates reflect on the experiences, friendships, and growth they’ve had during their educational years.
6. “Good Riddance (Time of Your Life)” – Green Day
Green Day’s song is a poignant reflection on the passing of time and the end of a chapter. The lyrics, “Another turning point, a fork stuck in the road. Time grabs you by the wrist, directs you where to go. So make the best of this test, and don’t ask why. It’s not a question, but a lesson learned in time” are relatable to graduates. It encourages them to see graduation as a new beginning, to make the most of the opportunities ahead, and to cherish the memories of their time in school.
7. “I Lived” – OneRepublic
This upbeat song is all about living life to the fullest, which is an apt message for graduates. The lyrics, “I did it all. I did it all. I owned every second that this world could give. I saw so many places, the things that I did. Yeah, with every broken bone, I swear I lived” inspire graduates to be bold, take chances, and make the most of their post – graduation lives. The energetic melody and positive message make it a great song to celebrate the new start.
8. “Heroes” – David Bowie
The idea of graduates becoming their own heroes can be related to this song. The lyrics, “We can be heroes, just for one day” suggest that graduates have the potential to achieve great things. It’s a song that can give them the confidence to step into the unknown, believing that they can create their own success stories. The unique and anthemic quality of the song makes it a powerful choice for graduation.
9. “The Climb” – Miley Cyrus
This song is about the journey and the challenges that come with achieving one’s goals, which is very relevant to graduates. The lyrics, “There’s always gonna be another mountain. I’m always gonna wanna make it move. Always gonna be an uphill battle. Sometimes I’m gonna have to lose” show that the post – graduation life won’t be easy, but the climb is worth it. It’s a song that encourages perseverance and a positive attitude towards the future.
10. “This Is the Life” – Amy Macdonald
Amy Macdonald’s song is a celebration of living in the moment and embracing life’s adventures. The lyrics, “This is the life, this is the life for me. I’ve been waiting for this moment, now I’m ready to believe” can resonate with graduates as they start a new phase of their lives. It’s a song that promotes a sense of excitement and anticipation for the opportunities that graduation brings.
11. “A Sky Full of Stars” – Coldplay
The song’s lyrics, “‘Cause you’re a sky, ’cause you’re a sky full of stars. I’m gonna give you my heart. ‘Cause you’re a sky, ’cause you’re a sky full of stars. ‘Cause you light up the path” can be seen as a metaphor for the bright future that graduates can look forward to. It’s a song that fills graduates with hope and a sense of wonder about the new chapter in their lives, with the sky full of stars representing the endless possibilities.
12. “Rise Up” – Andra Day
This powerful song is about rising above challenges, which is something graduates need to do. The lyrics, “I’ll rise up. I’ll rise like the day. I’ll rise up. I’ll rise unafraid. I’ll rise up. And I’ll do it a thousand times again” can inspire graduates to face the uncertainties of post – graduation life with courage and determination. It’s a song that gives them the strength to overcome any difficulties that may come their way.
Conclusion
These 12 songs offer a rich tapestry of emotions and messages related to graduation. From the solemnity of the occasion to the excitement of new beginnings, they capture the essence of this significant milestone. Whether it’s the hope for the future, the nostalgia for the past, or the courage to face challenges, these songs can serve as a soundtrack for graduates as they embark on the next stage of their lives.
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