Songs to Play at the End of 2026! A Roundup of New Year’s Eve and Winter J‑Pop
The year that felt both long and short is already coming to an end.
From around the time Christmas passes, you really start to sense that the year is winding down, don’t you?
And as we reach the year’s end, a variety of music programs and events take place, starting with the Red and White Song Battle on New Year’s Eve.
Every year, I bet a lot of people ring in the New Year while listening to music.
With that in mind, this article rounds up a bunch of songs perfect for the end of the year, including tracks about New Year’s Eve and classic winter tunes.
It’s a playlist you can enjoy on your own to reflect on the past year, or throw on with everyone to hype up the countdown.
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- Winter Songs: Classic tracks you want to listen to in winter. Songs you long for during the winter.
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[2026] Songs to listen to at year’s end! A roundup of New Year’s Eve songs and winter J-pop (71–80)
whiskyLittle Parade
A poetic, gently moving ballad that reflects on childhood memories with a father.
Taishi from Little Parade speaks candidly about parting with his late father and his feelings of gratitude, leaving a deep impression on listeners.
Included on their first mini-album “Tomaranai Kazeguruma,” released in January 2021, the track features a simple, piano-centered arrangement that highlights Taishi’s emotional vocals.
Vivid scenes—like visiting a shrine on New Year’s Eve and sensing his father’s presence through whiskey—evoke the year-end atmosphere, making it perfect for closing out the year.
Recommended for those who cherish family bonds or want to savor their gratitude for someone special.
Dayrai Concert OrchestraUNISON SQUARE GARDEN
The song “Daylight Concerto,” characterized by its buoyant, bouncy rhythm, is a 2009 work by the Japanese band UNISON SQUARE GARDEN.
Despite being a three-piece, UNISON SQUARE GARDEN is known for its high level of musicianship and soaring vocals.
They’ve released many quality tracks through anime tie-ins, and “Daylight Concerto” is another addictive tune with slightly tricky rhythms and chord progressions.
It’s a fun and unique piece that captures the restless mood and atmosphere of the year-end and New Year season.
Winter Phantasm ManiaKyūso Nekokami
A song that brilliantly captures the wintry chill of the season along with the loneliness and restlessness of youth.
Its energetic rock sound and catchy melody leave a strong impression, fully showcasing Kyuso Nekokami’s distinctive worldview.
Included on the album “New Wave,” released in December 2017, it was also used as the theme song for the NHK drama “Thrill! — Red Chapter / Black Chapter.” Recommended for those who, while wrapped in the year-end cold and solitude, want to feel a sense of hope for spring.
It’s a track you’ll want to listen to while taking in the festive cityscapes of the Christmas season, looking ahead with anticipation to the New Year.
[2026] Songs to Hear at Year’s End! New Year’s Eve Anthems and Winter J‑Pop Roundup (81–90)
waiting in vainrokudenashi
Rokudenashi’s song, which delicately portrays a bittersweet love, is perfect for listening to at year’s end.
It sings of the ache you feel for someone who’s spending time with somebody else, and of a steadfast love that still can’t let go—feelings that seep deep into the heart.
Released in October 2021, the track resonated with many listeners, enhanced by Ninzin’s clear, translucent vocals.
It’s recommended for those who want to spend the New Year’s season quietly while thinking of someone dear.
Listening to this song as you look back on your love over the past year might be just the thing.
Blues of the StarsYoshii Kazuya
It’s the perfect song for looking back on the past year while gazing up at the stars shining in the winter night sky.
Kazuya Yoshii’s clear, crystalline vocals will warm your heart on a cold night.
Included on the album “LOVE & PEACE,” the track was released in February 2011 and later featured on the May 2015 compilation album “SUPERNOVACATION.” A rock number infused with blues elements, it carries an atmosphere that evokes quiet nights and bittersweet farewells.
It’s great to listen to alone on New Year’s Eve while looking at the stars from your window, or to enjoy outside with a loved one as you stargaze together.
This work is sure to become a cherished song that resonates in your heart at the very moment you welcome the New Year.
You Are the One Who Rings That BellWada Akiko
This is a song in which Akiko Wada’s powerful voice truly resonates.
Listening to it at year’s end fills you with a quiet, reflective feeling.
Released in March 1972, the song won the Best Vocal Performance at the 14th Japan Record Awards.
It was even performed six times on the Kōhaku Uta Gassen.
The lyrics, written by Yū Aku, carry a message that gives you the courage to move forward, overcoming loneliness and setbacks.
I think it’s perfect for listening on New Year’s Eve as you look back on the past year.
It’s recommended not only when you’re ringing in the new year with friends or family, but also when you’re spending a quiet New Year’s on your own.
Ode to JoyToukyou Sukapara Daisu Ookesutora
Beethoven’s Symphony No.
9—better known as the “Ode to Joy”—is a quintessential piece that fills the air in Japan at the end of the year, and a beloved classic around the world.
Tokyo Ska Paradise Orchestra has arranged this masterpiece, transforming it into a lively rendition that rides on the upbeat rhythms of ska, perfectly amplifying the festive year-end mood.
The familiar melody that everyone has heard at least once resounds atop bright rhythms from saxophones, trumpets, drums, and more.
With its up-tempo energy, this arrangement feels perfect for powering through the busy year-end season and welcoming a brand-new year.