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 last year's list of Top 10 Graduation Songs for 2010. This is a new list of 10 more great graduation songs for 2011.
1. 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.
2. 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.
3. The Weepies - "Can't Go Back Now"
Courtesy Nettwerk
This song by the Weepies was featured in the film Adam. The underlying tone of the words is that moving forward can be scary due to the possibility of being alone. However, the song provides encouragement for the importance of taking those steps.
4. Boston - "Don't Look Back"
Courtesy Epic
Boston's rousing pop-rock anthem from the 1970s is still a powerful song for helping celebrate the "new day breakin'" that is represented by graduation.
5. Eminem - "Not Afraid"
Courtesy Interscope
There is rugged language in spots in this anthem from rapper Eminem. However, the center of the song is a rousing call to set aside fear and join together in forging a positive future.
6. Florence and the Machine - "Dog Days Are Over"
Courtesy Island Records
For those who have seen high school as something to be endured as much as enjoyed, this stirring hit from Florence and the Machine will provide an outstanding soundtrack for leaving high school behind and facing a brighter future.
7. 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.
8. Van Halen - "Right Now"
Courtesy Warner Bros.
Van Halen's classic 1990s hit is a call to grasp the moment and make progress toward your goals whatever they may be. The messages in the song and the accompanying video are just as relevant today as they were nearly 20 years ago.
9. Matisyahu - "One Day"
Courtesy Epic Records
Jewish reggae artist Matisyahu looks toward a special day when negativity and violence will come to an end. It is a message well worth hearing on any special day of life celebration.
10. KT Tunstall - "Suddenly I See"
© Virgin Records
KT Tunstall wrote this song about a specific person she found inspirational. However, it easily conveys the general importance of mentors and role models in life. Graduation is a perfect time for this reminder.
