[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] (21–30)
There’s always tomorrowUrufuruzu
This number-one song that office workers want to sing is Ashita ga Arusa (“There’s Always Tomorrow”).
The original was sung by Kyu Sakamoto, but the cover by Re:Japan featuring comedians like Downtown and Cocorico, as well as the one by Ulfuls, were also popular.
It’s a song everyone has heard at least once.
With its simple lyrics and melody, it’s an easy one for everyone to sing together.
crimsonX JAPAN
When people hear “a rock band song,” many—depending on their generation—might think of this track.
It’s a signature song by X JAPAN, the legendary rock band representing Japan, and it’s practically in the hall of fame, still heard in many settings today.
From the instruments to the vocals, every part is highly challenging, making it a song that’s not easy to cover.
But that’s exactly why the sense of achievement and excitement when you perform it well is exceptional.
Be sure to practice thoroughly and show it off!
Heroineback number
When it comes to winter songs by rock bands, this one is indispensable! It’s back number’s signature winter track, from a band known for countless love songs.
A mid-tempo ballad that sets candid lyrics—about wanting to spend this winter with you—to a familiar, easy-listening melody.
It’s neither too intense nor too subdued, making it perfect to perform as a party or banquet interlude.
Plus, the wintery imagery woven into the lyrics fits the season perfectly, so I highly recommend it.
Precious thingsroodo obu mejyaa
Formed after being headhunted for an audition variety show project, Road of Major is a four-piece rock band.
Their indie debut single “Taisetsu na Mono” became a major hit, spending 19 consecutive weeks in the Oricon Top 10.
Although the arrangement is straightforward and simple, the tempo is fast, so be careful not to let the band’s rhythm drift.
It’s a hit tune known across generations and is sure to liven up year-end and New Year party performances.
peace signYonezu Kenshi
This is “Peace Sign” by Kenshi Yonezu, a singer-songwriter at the forefront of today’s music scene.
His signature song “Lemon” is great too, but for a year-end party it might feel a bit somber—so this is a recommended pick instead.
This track was used as the opening theme for the anime My Hero Academia, so plenty of people will recognize it! Let’s fire things up with this upbeat rock tune!
astronomical observationBUMP OF CHICKEN
I imagine there are quite a lot of people who started a band after listening to BUMP OF CHICKEN.
On the other hand, there are also many who don’t usually listen to rock bands but still know BUMP OF CHICKEN’s songs.
This track is one of their signature songs, loved by such a wide audience.
The bass part is notably more difficult than the others, but I encourage you to practice it thoroughly and give it a try.
It’s a crisp, refreshing tune, so I think it’s perfect for performing as a lighthearted entertainment piece as well!
Theory of the Mindful HeartRADWIMPS
RADWIMPS, the four-piece rock band that has composed film music for director Makoto Shinkai’s works since the anime film Your Name became a social phenomenon.
Their major 4th single, “Yūshinron,” was used as the ending theme for the information program IMPACT, and it also drew attention when it was covered by Bank Band in 2009.
It’s a well-known song that many people have likely heard, but due to its delicate and complex ensemble, band practice is essential before performing it.
With arrangements that develop at a dizzying pace and keep you on edge, it’s a rock tune that feels incredible to play all the way through.