Graduation, or commencement, is one of the most important and memorable ceremonies in life. The music that accompanies the ceremony will often be remembered right along with the events of the day. The songs that are popular for graduations change from year to year.
As you are selecting graduation music, don't miss the list of Top 40 Graduation Songs of All Time.
1. Natasha Bedingfield - Unwritten
Courtesy Arista Records (UK)
As you graduate, it makes perfect sense to sing, or shout "Today is where your book begins, the rest is still unwritten..." Natasha Bedingfield's smash hit is destined to be a Commencement classic.
2. Nickelback - Photograph
Courtesy Roadrunner Records
Nickelback struck a nostalgic chord with pop audiences on this hit single. Most all of the memories fondly cataloged in the course of the song are events from school years.
3. Carrie Underwood - Whenever You Remember
Courtesy Arista Records
Carrie Underwood is one of the most popular of all American Idol champions. Here she is in a mellow mood of remembering the past and preparing to move forward with heads held high.
4. Tom Petty - I Won't Back Down
Courtesy MCA
This Tom Petty classic is not only about defiance. It is also about gathering one's strength to face any difficulties that may arise while finding your way in this world. "I Won't Back Down" was one of a number of pop songs used as an anthem in the aftermath of the events of September 11, 2001.
5. 10,000 Maniacs - These Are Days
Courtesy Elektra
This 10,000 Maniacs classic from the band's years with Natalie Merchant as lead vocalist will help identify the time of graduation as a time when you'll know "that you are touched by something that will grow and bloom in you." The song closes with the hopefulness that awareness of direction for the future will make itself known in any moment.
6. The Ataris - In This Diary
Courtesy Columbia
If you're looking for a great graduation song with a bit more of a punkish edge, the Ataris nostalgic tune will do the trick.
7. Josh Groban - You Raise Me Up
Courtesy Reprise
One of the key songs that introduced the world to the enormous talent of Josh Groban was also a huge hit in the UK for Westlife. Lyrically, the song is a simple hymn of gratitude to those who lift us higher than we may go on our own.
8. Sarah McLachlan - I Will Remember You
Courtesy Nettwerk
The tone is a bit wistful for celebrations, but at the heart of this gorgeous song is a promise among friends.
9. Queen - We Are the Champions
Courtesy Elektra
This Queen classic never fails to provoke a warm, possibly tearful, singalong.
10. Cyndi Lauper - True Colors
Courtesy Epic
Tailor made for those who have endured difficult years, Cyndi Lauper's 80's hit is also a warm reminder that all of us are beautiful.
