10 Great Songs for Graduation

Are you looking for suitable songs for a high school or college graduation ceremony? You'll find many appropriate songs in today's music, although you have to pick carefully.

Graduation songs tend to fall into one of two categories: a call for a better tomorrow, or memories of friends and the times you've had together. I looked at a lot of potential songs and developed this list based on the appeal of the song as well as the suitability of its lyrics to the event.

Also, you'll want to choose that is of the proper tempo. Consider how the music will fit in with the ceremony. Will it will be played as graduates enter the auditorium, during presentation of the diplomas, or at the end of the ceremony?

If you aren't familiar with these songs (and you probably have heard of many of them, since they've been radio favorites), listen to excerpts on iTunes or other online music services to see if they'll work for your graduation event.

Here are 10 songs that are great for graduations:

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"Unwritten," Natasha Beddington. A song about living life to its fullest and reaching for the future, and also a beautiful melody. (medium tempo)

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"I Will Remember You," Sarah McLachlan. Another lovely song, this one about holding on to good memories and remembering the ones we love. (Slow tempo)

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"If Everyone Cared," Nickelback. This is a wonderful song about how love can change the world. (medium tempo)

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"I Hope You Dance," Lee Womack. Perfect for wishing graduates well and urging them to make the most out of life. (medium tempo)

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"Time of Your Life," Green Day. Another song about new beginnings and friendship remembered. (fast tempo)

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"I Believe I Can Fly," R. Kelly. An inspirational song about aiming for the heights. (medium tempo)

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"Breakaway," Kelly Clarkson. Another song about flying, seeking new goals and stretching one's wings. (medium tempo)

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"You'll Be In My Heart," Phil Collins. Keeping the ones we love in our hearts always - an appropriate sentiment for graduation. (slow tempo)

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"Dare You to Move," Switchfoot. A little bittersweet, but still suitable, about the uncertainty of taking the next step into life. (medium tempo)