A graduation song written by Griffith music students has struck a chord with the Class of 2020, who missed out on traditional ceremonies and celebrations due to COVID.

The World is Ours was penned by Queensland Conservatorium Bachelor of Music (Popular Music) students Alex Sologon and Joshua Betts.

Music student Joshua Betts

Second-year student Joshua said the upbeat pop song was designed to be “a warm hug”.

“It’s always been my dream to make music that really connects,” he said.

“Songs are stories, and this was about seeing the positive and embracing the future, even despite the rough year everyone has had.

“It was amazing to be able to create a soundtrack for the Class of 2020.”

Music student Alex Sologon

Fellow second-year student Alex said the song was written during a marathon jam session, with the track recorded and engineered in just three days.

“To create something so special in such a short timeframe was really inspiring,” she said.

“I think we’ve really been yearning to make music together again and this has shown all of us what’s possible.

“Everyone just pulled together and we came up with something really uplifting — this project has changed my whole outlook on the creative process.”

Queensland Conservatorium popular music lecturer Caleb James oversaw the project, mentoring the songwriters and acting as executive producer on the track.

“It was a huge team — we had about twenty students from South Bank and the Gold Coast working on writing, producing, performing,” he said.

Popular music lecturer Caleb James (left)

“They were working to pretty tight deadlines, but they had a safety net — we were there to mentor and guide them through the process.

“They learned a lot about collaboration and creativity, and it was great to be involved in a project that was fun and positive.

“It was an amazing opportunity for all of the students involved and they were super excited to be back in the studios.”

Fellow popular music lecturer Dr Brendan Anthony co-produced the song, also mentoring the students who played, recorded and produced the track.

The industry veteran, who has worked with everyone from INXS and Hans Zimmer to Midnight Oil, is also part of the Class of 2020 — receiving his doctorate this year.

“I think this project was really a celebration for all the students who’ve made it through this year,” he said.

“For me, the truly rewarding thing was seeing how our students stepped up and rose to the challenge – projects like this are the best way to prepare them for life in the industry.”