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. These are 40 of the most proven and durable songs for helping you celebrate a graduation.
40. 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.
39. Billy Joel - "Vienna"
Courtesy Columbia Records
Sometimes in the midst of such a major life event as graduation, it is hard to remember to relax and slow down and let some things unfold on their own. Billy Joel's ballad from his 1977 album The Stranger helps us keep the importance of slowing down in mind.
38. My Chemical Romance - "Sing"
Courtesy Reprise Records
This song is an anthemic call to raising your voice and being heard even when you face opposition. My Chemical Romance have created a great new song for helping celebrate a point in life in which self-identity is of utmost importance.
37. The Beach Boys - "Graduation Day"
Courtesy Capitol
This Beach Boys song is somewhat rare. However, it is well worth hearing and adding to the mix of songs played at the time of graduation.
36. Taylor Swift - "A Place In This World"
Courtesy Big Machine
This song by Taylor Swift is most appropriate for female graduates. However, its air of quiet confidence in the face of the unknown coming ahead is certainly applicable for graduates of any gender.
35. Florence and the Machine - "Shake It Out"
Courtesy Universal
It is hard to celebrate if you are lost in the fears and insecurities of the past. This is the message delivered by Florence and the Machine. Her towering anthem to confidence in the future will help even the most fearful shake it off.
34. 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 hit is tailor made for events like commencement ceremonies.
33. Katy Perry - "Firework"
Courtesy Capitol Records
Katy Perry's #1 smash hit single is a clear call for positive self-esteem. It is a perfect upbeat song for graduation parties and ceremonies.
32. Celine Dion - "These Are the Special Times"
Courtesy Epic
For a focus on the graduation day itself, Celine Dion reminds graduates to revel in the day as an unforgettable and precious one.
31. Rembrandts - "I'll Be There For You"
Courtesy Atlantic Records
Everyone needs friends as they head from school into the "real world." This song is one of energetic reassurance among close friends as they face the tough moments ahead.
