by Kathleen Lynn

Created on: May 14, 2009   Last Updated: May 20, 2009

Graduation is a time for embracing the past as well as the future. While graduates are saying good bye to high school, friends, teachers, and the memories of those years they are also embarking on a new journey. So what songs express the bittersweet feelings of graduation?

The most popular song for graduations most recently has been Friends Forever by Vitamin C. This song is so often played for graduations that it is more often called The Graduation song by Vitamin C rather than by its title.

Another popular song for graduations is Friends Are Friends Forever by Michael W Smith. Distance does not end a friendship but rather strengthens the bond. Your friends are friends forever.

Kelly Clarkson is inspiring graduates with her song Breakaway. An example of the lyrics: I'll spread my wings and I'll learn how to fly, I'll do what it takes till I touch the sky.

Unwritten by Natasha Bedingfield makes an excellent graduation song. It maintains an upbeat, positive feeling while reminding each person to be themselves and be unique. It also reminds graduates they possess the power to chart their own map in life.

It's So Hard To Say Goodbye by Boys II Men is next on the list. The lyrics to this song express how hard it is to say good bye to friends.

Hero sung by Mariah Carey is another touching song for graduation. While it reminds listeners that parting is sorrow, it also talks about how it makes the individual stronger. It also encourages the graduates to reach for their dreams.

When honoring those special educators or parents that have made the difference with a graduation presentation, Wind Beneath My Wings by Bette Middler is fitting. This song expresses the gratitude and importance this person made in your life. While sharing your success through music, this song honors that person that gave you the strength to get through the bad days and continue to success.

If you're truly fond of oldies and looking for a fun way to express your accomplishment, I Did It My Way by Frank Sinatra will fit the bill. Though perhaps not a popular tune anymore, it does allow one to act a bit silly and celebrate their success.

If you're looking for an inspirational graduation song, Ray Boltz did a song called The Anchor Holds. This song aptly describes a journey such as education or career and reminds the listener that through the bumps and rocks in the road the anchor is there. This will also serve as a fresh reminder to the graduate that a strong faith will get them through in life.

Last but not least, for our graduation songs list the contributions of the 80s generation can't be overlooked. Scorpions song Wind of Change is still perfect to match most graduates mindset and mood. So face the magic of the moment and allow the winds of change to blow through your graduation celebration.

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