Graduation is an emotional rite of passage. Nostalgia, excitement and everything in between are all caught up in it.
In honor and recognition of this momentous occasion, the Collegian has compiled a list of the top 10 graduation songs:
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- “Here Comes the Sun” by the Beatles
The lyrics are the perfect metaphor for the triumph of surviving finals week: “Little darlin’, it’s been a long, cold, lonely winter / Little darlin’, it feels like years since it’s been here / Here comes the sun…”
- “Don’t Stop Believin’” by Journey
This rock ‘n’ roll track is pure elation from start to finish. Its epic production value and its catchy lyrics predestined it to become a classic. Only something as joyous and once in a lifetime as commencement comes to mind when listening to it.
- “We Are the Champions” by Queen
Any record by this theatrical, 1980s stadium band would do, really, but “We Are the Champions” celebrates the victory of the present as much as it makes you feel invincible against the challenges of the future.
- “Sweet Dreams (Are Made of This)” by Eurythmics
“Some of them want to abuse you. … Some of them want to be abused. …”
Also covered by Marilyn Manson, this tune prepares you for the real world with its message that life may not always be what you want, but it is always something to be thankful for.
- “Rhythm Nation” by Janet Jackson
“Join voices in protest to social injustice / A generation full of courage come forth with me.”
As graduates, we are the future of the world, and now is the time to use our education to make it a better place.
- “Man in the Mirror” by Michael Jackson
The Jackson siblings are known for their socially conscious music. As daunting a task as it is to change the world, it begins with one simple step: changing yourself.
- “Don’t You (Forget About Me)” by Simple Minds
As important as it is to look ahead toward the future, never forget looking back at all the things that helped get you where you are today.
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- “Long Live” by Taylor Swift
Yes, this is one Taylor Swift song that isn’t about a crush or a breakup. Lyrically, it is more reminiscent of high school than it is of college, but the experience of remembering yourself and your friends having the time of your lives is a universal one.
- “The Edge of Glory” by Lady Gaga
Graduation can be just as scary as it can be jubilant (the real world is finally a reality), but that is part of what makes it such a rush. Embrace the danger and leap over the edge into your own glory.
- “Graduation (Friends Forever)” by Vitamin C
It’s all in the title. Vitamin C flawlessly captures the bittersweet element of graduating, the sadness and the thrill of leaving behind the life you know for the life you can only dream about. Forever worth a listen.
ConGRADulations, fellow CSU Rams Class of 2015.
Collegian A&E Writer Hunter Goddard can be reached at entertainment@collegian.com or on Twitter @hunter_gaga.
