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[2026] Classic Karaoke Songs That Liven Up Year-End and New Year Parties

Many of you probably go to karaoke for year-end or New Year parties, right? At company gatherings, there are times when you might struggle with song choices because you’re mindful of your boss or senior colleagues.

You can’t help but be cautious when you think, “What if I kill the mood…?” But if you pick songs that are widely known across ages and genders, or ones that everyone can join in on with choreography or call-and-response, you’ll be fine! Above all, it’s important to choose songs that everyone can enjoy together.

In this article, we’ll introduce foolproof karaoke songs for year-end and New Year parties—ranging from popular tracks that hit those key points, to the latest hits that drew attention this year, all carefully selected by our editorial team.

Be sure to use it as a reference!

For men (41–50)

240 Million EyesGō Hiromi

240 Million Eyes - Hiromi Go (’94)
240 Million EyesGō Hiromi

Hiromi Go’s songs are popular across a wide range of generations, but they’re especially likely to get the crowd going at karaoke, where there are often many adults.

Plus, there’s choreography that’s easy to mimic, so if everyone sings and dances together, it’ll be even more exciting.

There’s always tomorrowUrufuruzu

Ashita Ga Arusa (Georgia De Ikimashou Hen)
There's always tomorrowUrufuruzu

When it comes to feel-good songs, this is the one.

It features a catchy melody that’s easy to pick up and gets everyone at year-end and New Year parties united and excited.

Released in 2001 by Ulfuls, this song even earned them a spot on that year’s NHK Kouhaku Uta Gassen.

It conveys the importance of staying positive despite the challenges we face in everyday life.

It’s perfect for moments like year-end or New Year gatherings when everyone wants to look ahead with hope.

Its message of hope will resonate and help you have a wonderful time.

GONGWANIMA

WANIMA「GONG」OFFICIAL MUSIC VIDEO
GONGWANIMA

If you’re looking for a band that gets everyone pumped up with some macho energy, WANIMA’s “GONG” is the one! It’s an intensely fast-paced track, and true to WANIMA’s style, it bursts with energy—you’ll feel fired up whether you’re singing or listening.

Try belting it out with your close friends at year-end or New Year parties.

With its powerful sound and vocals, it’s the perfect number to kick off a great year.

Miracle of BondsMAN WITH A MISSION×milet

MAN WITH A MISSION × milet “Kizuna no Kiseki” Music Video
Miracle of BondsMAN WITH A MISSION×milet

A song that sings of passionate feelings and the power of bonds was born from a collaboration between MAN WITH A MISSION and milet.

Chosen as the opening theme for the TV anime Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba – Swordsmith Village Arc, the track captivates with its dynamic progression from a traditional Japanese atmosphere to a rock sound.

Released in May 2023, it reveals new discoveries with every listen and has a depth that makes you want to repeat it again and again.

Its lyrics convey the strength to overcome hardships and the importance of bonds, making it perfect for karaoke at year-end or New Year parties with friends.

It’s a go-to song when you want to get the energy up.

sasanqua (Camellia sasanqua)SEKAI NO OWARI

This famous ballad by the four-piece band SEKAI NO OWARI is also highly recommended.

It’s a song with down-to-earth lyrics by a group known for their striking electro and fantastical aesthetic.

I think this track really shines at karaoke after the excitement has peaked at year-end or New Year’s parties.

Practice well and deliver it coolly at just the right moment.

HAPPY BIRTHDAYback number

back number - “HAPPY BIRTHDAY” Music Video (Theme song for the TBS Tuesday drama “A Story to Read When You First Fall in Love”)
HAPPY BIRTHDAYback number

Many of you may know this song because it was the theme song for the drama “A Story to Read When You First Fall in Love.” Speaking of back number, they have many popular love songs, and among their tracks, this one portrays an unrequited love from a male perspective.

It tells a poignant story of a man waiting for a birthday message from the woman he likes, only for it not to come, realizing his feelings won’t be returned.

How about passionately singing this beloved ballad that’s popular with people of all genders?

AM11:00HY

11:00 AM – HY (Full)
AM11:00HY

A classic by HY, the Okinawa-born mixture band, known for its heartfelt lyrics and refreshing melody.

It’s a gem of a love song about the precious time spent with a partner.

The wish to preserve moments with a loved one forever is gently sung over a rhythmic tune.

Included on the album Street Story, released in April 2003, it became one of HY’s most popular songs.

It’s perfect for those who want to appreciate the value of time with someone special, or to create a calm atmosphere at year-end or New Year gatherings.

It will surely wrap you in a vibe filled with youth and warmth.