[Band Performance] Recommended Songs to Liven Up Year-end/New Year Parties [2026]
As the season for year-end and New Year parties approaches, many of us struggle to decide on a performance.
If you’re in a band, showcasing a live set is definitely an option.
Still, when you consider the age range of the crowd and what fits your skill level, it can be hard to land on the right idea.
If you’re going to perform, you want everyone to have a great time.
In this article, we’ve gathered songs that are sure to liven up your party performance! We’ve focused on widely known tracks across generations and winter-themed pieces—use this as a reference!
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[Band Performance] Recommended Songs to Liven Up Year-End and New Year Parties [2026] (81–90)
A town where it snowsyunikōn
Speaking of the rock band Unicorn, active since the 1980s, they’re famous as the band fronted by Tamio Okuda, right? People in the manager-age generation in particular are probably familiar with them.
And when it comes to their year-end song, it has to be this one.
It’s a comfortable track with a laid-back performance and lyrics that are so characteristic of Tamio Okuda’s relaxed style.
When there are lots of people gathered, it can be hard to play an intense rock tune, but with this song, you can present it in an easygoing way.
A rolling rock, morning falls upon youASIAN KUNG-FU GENERATION
This is a song that uses the expression “rolling rock,” a symbol of rock music.
It was included on ASIAN KUNG-FU GENERATION’s fifth album, World World World, released in February 2008.
It also gained attention when it was used as the ending theme of the final episode of the anime Bocchi the Rock!.
“It may be tough right now, but morning will come someday”—the piece carries a deeply emotional message.
It’s a song that resonates across generations, so be sure to practice well and give it a performance.
Beyond a thousand nightsAqua Timez
How about livening up your year-end or New Year parties with a timeless, heart-stirring song? This track by the rock band Aqua Timez was released as their second single in November 2006 and was chosen as the theme song for the animated film BLEACH: MEMORIES OF NOBODY.
The lyrics, which portray the struggle of not being able to be honest and the fear of getting hurt, leave a strong impression.
Its central theme is the importance of having the courage to express your feelings to someone you love.
It’s widely known across generations, making it perfect for gatherings with lots of people!
You and the slopesSHISHAMO
SHISHAMO is a three-piece girls’ band that has gained support for lyrics that depict down-to-earth, relatable scenes and for songs that are catchy yet somehow tinged with ennui.
“Kimi to Gelende,” included on their third album SHISHAMO 3, was chosen as the ending theme for the sports information program Kyo-Spo.
Its ensemble, featuring exhilarating guitar sounds, is perfect as entertainment for winter events.
However, because the performance is quite tight, be sure the band as a whole doesn’t get loose.
THANXWANIMA
This is the song “THANX” by WANIMA, a rock band that has leapt beyond the Japanese rock scene to widespread popularity.
Riding on astonishingly high vocals, the warm lyrics hit you straight in the heart—absolutely amazing.
It’s sure to energize anyone who listens.
Let’s sing our hearts out with gratitude to the people and friends who supported us throughout the year! Those feelings will surely reach them!
Effeminate; overly sentimental; being clingy/whiny (context-dependent)Gōruden Bonbā
When it comes to songs that get everyone hyped, regardless of age or gender, we can’t forget this one! Golden Bomber has performed it multiple times on the Kouhaku Uta Gassen, so it’s widely known across generations.
Although it was released in 2009, it’s still a popular track you hear on TV and at karaoke.
The band’s signature is being an “air band,” but it’s also a cool song that’s great to actually play as a cover band.
If you copy their makeup too, it’ll get the crowd even more excited!
[Band Performance] Recommended Songs to Liven Up Year-End and New Year Parties [2026] (91–100)
jerseySabasusutā
This song weaves in memories tied to a green tracksuit while portraying a farewell to someone important and the singer’s own growth.
Released by Sabasister on the 2022 EP “Saba-no-Ichi,” it’s an early work from shortly after the band formed, and its candid lyrics and melodies resonated with many listeners.
The song is filled with striking images—someone more absorbed in sheet music than in a computer, a person whose friends are the sea, books, and The Beatles.
It’s pop rock that’s sure to hit home if you play it as entertainment at year-end or New Year parties!