by Anonymouse

Created on: May 12, 2009   Last Updated: May 21, 2009

The top 10 graduation songs of all time have a handful of qualities in common. They remind graduates of the friends and memories they've made over the years, and fill people with hope and inspiration. Most of all, they stir up emotion in a way that plain words - however heartfelt - never could.

"Welcome to Wherever You Are" by Bon Jovi (2005)

At a time when graduates are letting the past go, and preparing themselves for a bright future, these lyrics really strike a chord: "If you feel alone and lost, and need a friend; Remember every new beginning is some beginning's end."

"Graduation" by Vitamin C (2000)

No graduation would be complete without this song. The chorus alone is sure to drive some to tears: "As we go on, we remember; All the times we had together; And as our lives change from whatever; We will still be friends forever."

"It's the End of the World As We Know It" by R.E.M. (1987)

For graduates, the world as they know it may be ending, but a brand new one is just beginning. That's why everyone at graduation can sing along with this R.E.M. hit, "and I feel fine."

"I Will Remember You" by Sarah McLachlan (1995)

This song is chock-full of advice. "I will remember you; Will you remember me? Don't let your life pass you by; Weep not for the memories." Hold on to your memories, but don't live in the past. There are plenty of good times ahead!

"Good Riddance" by Green Day (1997)

"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; It's something unpredictable, but in the end it's right; I hope you had the time of your life."

"We Are the Champions" by Queen (1977)

This song is frequently played at graduation ceremonies. The lyrics , "We are the champions, my friends; And we'll keep on fighting till the end," remind graduates that they are winners, and will continue to be, so long as they keep applying themselves.

"These Are the Special Times" by Celine Dion (1998)

Another song likely to bring many to tears, "These Are the Special Times" helps graduates to reminisce. Try not to get too sentimental as Celine sings, "These are the precious times; The tender times we'll hold in our hearts forever."

"I Believe I Can Fly" by R. Kelly (1996)

"I believe I can fly; I believe I can touch the sky; I think about it every night and day; Spread my wings and fly away." Who wouldn't feel inspired after hearing these lyrics?

"Here's To The Night" by Eve 6 (2001)

This song is saying "Cheers" to the past, because it's really going to be missed. "Here's to the nights we felt alive; Here's to the tears you knew you'd cry; Here's to goodbye; Tomorrow's gonna come too soon."

"Unwritten" by Natasha Bedingfield (2004)

An ideal closing song for graduation, this will help everyone feel optimistic about the future. Natasha Bedingfield offers sound advice as she sings, "Live your life with arms wide open; Today is where your book begins; The rest is still unwritten."

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