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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 women (1–10)

Dinner Songtuki.

tuki. “Banquet Song” Official Music Video
Dinner Songtuki.

This is a debut single released in September 2023, written and composed by tuki.

when she was 15.

It spread by word of mouth after being posted on TikTok and reached No.

1 on Oricon and Billboard Japan.

It’s a bittersweet love song that intertwines the inner conflict of hurting the one you love with the feelings you still can’t let go, and its delicate vocals and profound lyrics have resonated especially with younger listeners.

The music video by illustrator Posuka Demizu also conveys a unique worldview.

However, since it’s a mellow, listen-closely type of song, if you plan to sing it at a year-end or New Year’s party, it’s recommended for those who want to showcase their vocal ability by changing the mood after a group-hype segment.

I hope I can be your lover.Kaneyori Masaru

Kaneyori Masaru [I Hope I Can Be Your Lover] Music Video
I hope I can be your lover.Kaneyori Masaru

This song is by Kaneyori Masaru, a three-piece girls’ rock band based in Osaka, included on their mini-album “To Us Who Won’t Live Yesterday,” released in January 2025.

It was chosen as the theme song for the film “Yoyogi Johnny’s Melancholic After School.” Riding on a powerful rock sound, it captures the anxiety that feelings for someone special might not reach them, along with the bittersweet wish to gradually close the distance anyway.

The lyrics portray the restlessness and sweet ache of unrequited love—an universal theme anyone who’s been in love can relate to—making it a track that resonates across generations.

It’s wildly popular on social media, with many dance-cover videos, and it’s the kind of song that can bring a room together and get everyone hyped at year-end or New Year parties.

A hundred flowers in full bloomIkuta Rira

Lilas Ikuta “Profusion of a Hundred Flowers” Official Music Video
A hundred flowers in full bloomIkuta Rira

This song, created by Lila Ikuta—also known as ikura, the vocalist of YOASOBI—marks her first solo TV anime opening theme, released in December 2024.

Written specifically for the second season of the anime The Apothecary Diaries, it is a powerful number that portrays a vibrant future awaiting beyond hardship.

Ikuta’s clear, translucent vocals brilliantly convey the protagonist’s inner world and growth as she lives within the rear palace, a place that is both glamorous and rife with intrigue.

The jacket artwork, shot by Mika Ninagawa, also drew attention for its vivid visuals.

It’s a must-listen not only for anime fans but also for anyone who wants to appreciate Ikuta’s vocal prowess.

chantAdo

This song was released in September 2023 as the theme for Universal Studios Japan’s Halloween event “Zombie de Dance.” Its danceable sound blends elements of electro swing and electropop, while its distinctive phrasing—such as “ryouran ouka go-shutsujishi da” and “jabaraha jabio”—leaves a strong impression.

The lyrics, which sing of resolve and passion for one’s own show, are perfect for year-end parties where you want to let yourself loose.

Powered by Ado’s commanding vocals, it’s a track that can really elevate the mood—so if you’re good at karaoke, give it a try.

With its devastatingly powerful beat that sent Halloween crowds into a frenzy, it can instantly turn any venue into a dance floor.

Marunouchi SadisticShiina Ringo

Among Shiina Ringo’s songs—an artist who continues to imprint her singular worldview on Japan’s music scene—this track has remained a beloved signature number despite never being released as a single.

Featured on her 1999 album “Muzai Moratorium,” it’s distinguished by a shuffle beat infused with jazz and rock elements, and urbane lyrics that weave in gear names like Gibson and Marshall.

Sing it over the sprightly piano melody, and the atmosphere instantly takes on a refined sheen.

Fans of Shiina Ringo or Tokyo Jihen, of course, but also any music lovers at year-end or New Year parties, will likely nod in approval: “Nice choice.” With a groove that feels great to sing, it has long been a staple pick for karaoke.

TouchIwasaki Yoshimi

Touch – Yoshimi Iwasaki (Full)
TouchIwasaki Yoshimi

A classic by Yoshimi Iwasaki, best known as the opening theme of the anime Touch.

It’s easy to sing, so it’s a popular karaoke choice for women.

Since it was used in a baseball anime, you also hear it often as a cheer song at high school baseball games.

No matter the singer’s age, it sounds cute, making it a must for karaoke during year-end and New Year party season! It could be a fun gag pick for men, too.

And if you’re up for it, try the chorus choreography as well.

New Era (Uta from ONE PIECE FILM RED)Ado

[Ado] New Genesis (Uta from ONE PIECE FILM RED)
New Era (Uta from ONE PIECE FILM RED)Ado

Shin Jidai (New Genesis), the theme song for the anime film ONE PIECE FILM RED, is a track by Japanese singer Ado.

One Piece is an anime whose serialization began in Weekly Shonen Jump in 1997.

In the film, the character Uta, a songstress, performs this song.

With an exhilarating 1980s-inspired feel, the song was written and composed by Yasutaka Nakata.

The mysterious diva Uta, who captivates the world, appears in public for the first time to sing New Genesis.

Ado’s slightly different vocal approach from her usual style adds momentum and broadens the expressive range of the work.