[New Year BGM] New Year Songs Loved Across Generations
Background music that enhances the New Year’s atmosphere is an essential part of kicking off a fresh year! The songs you choose may vary depending on the scene—whether it’s the cozy time spent gathered around osechi dishes, the lively moments with relatives, or music you’d like to play while getting ready for your first shrine visit of the year.
In this article, we’ve collected a wide range of music, from tracks that evoke traditional Japanese vibes to J-pop themed around the New Year.
You’re sure to find a song that will make your New Year’s celebration even more festive!
- [New Year’s Songs] Timeless classics and popular New Year tunes you’ll want to listen to at the start of the year
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- [For Seniors] Winter songs you'll want to hum along to. A collection of classic tunes recommended for BGM and recreational activities
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- Recommended BGM for YouTube Shorts! Popular songs released in the Reiwa era
- [For Seniors] Winter Classics to Sing in January: Heartwarming Moments with Nostalgic Children’s Songs and Kayōkyoku (Japanese Popular Songs)
- Winter Songs: Classic tracks you want to listen to in winter. Songs you long for during the winter.
- [Winter Songs] The Best Classic and Popular Winter Tunes to Listen to in Winter
- [2026] Classic Western songs to celebrate the New Year: Popular tracks to kick off the year
- Songs to Play at the End of 2026! A Roundup of New Year’s Eve and Winter J‑Pop
[New Year BGM] New Year Songs Loved Across Generations (41–50)
Shika-no-umi (Four Seas Waves) / Waves of the Four Seas
A classic New Year’s song that everyone has heard when welcoming the new year.
Known as a passage from the Noh chant “Takasago,” this piece is cherished as a celebratory song praising a peaceful world where the seas in all directions are calm and the nation is well-governed.
Because it extols conjugal love and longevity, it is also favored at wedding ceremonies and is said to be the origin of calling the bride and groom’s table the “Takasago seat.” The solemn, tranquil tone unique to Noh is perfect for creating an austere atmosphere for the New Year.
It is also a staple for the New Year’s “first chant,” making it recommended for those who want to experience a traditional Japanese New Year ambiance.
[New Year’s BGM] New Year’s Songs Loved Across Generations (51–60)
Cantata No. 190 “Sing to the Lord a New Song”J.S.Bach
A Bach church cantata celebrating the New Year.
Its brilliant scoring and festive tone splendidly express the joy of the season.
The buoyant rhythm of the opening chorus and the cries of “Alleluia” create a radiant atmosphere.
It is said to have been composed for January 1, 1724—the first New Year Bach welcomed in Leipzig.
Although part of the score has unfortunately been lost, modern musicians have reconstructed it, and it is still performed today.
It’s perfect for New Year’s concerts or as background music for the holiday.
With lyrics full of praise and gratitude to God, it inspires hope and resolve for the year ahead.
In conclusion
We introduced New Year’s songs and background music.
The music that brightens the festive atmosphere of the New Year always lifts the heart, no matter how many times you listen to it.
When spending time with family or loved ones, try playing a favorite track.
May a New Year welcomed with music become an even warmer and more memorable time.