Ranking of popular songs for year-end and New Year parties

LemonYonezu Kenshi43rank/position

Kenshi Yonezu – Lemon

A single by Kenshi Yonezu—the new-generation singer-songwriter who has dominated J-pop and enjoyed immense popularity since his days working under the Vocaloid producer name Hachi—this is his eighth major-label release.

Written as the theme song for the TV drama “Unnatural,” its poignant lyrics that evoke parting with a loved one and its superb melody made it one of the defining songs of 2019.

Because it’s a well-known hit, it’s perfect for karaoke at year-end and New Year parties, and since the overall key is low, it’s also easy to sing for men who aren’t comfortable with high-key songs.

However, the high notes in the chorus combine with melodic leaps and are easy to miss, so be sure to focus when singing.

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Hoshino Takashi

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Is being cute not enough?CUTIE STREET44rank/position

[MV] CUTIE STREET "Isn't it enough to be just cute?"

In recent years, more and more idol groups have been gaining attention through viral hits on social media, and CUTIE STREET is a prime example.

Their debut single, released in September 2024, carries a message that embraces “cuteness” as a form of personal identity and strength.

With a unique perspective that even great beauties throughout history went all-in for love, the lyrics are empowering and boost self-esteem.

The song also made a strong showing on the charts, taking No.

1 on Billboard JAPAN’s TikTok Weekly Top 20.

Its fast-paced dance beat and catchy melody have an addictive quality that sticks in your head after just one listen.

It’s perfect for moments when you want to brighten up an entire venue, like school festivals or wedding after-parties.

Learn the choreography and dance together, and you’ll create a real sense of unity.

mixed nutsOfisharu Higedan Dism45rank/position

Official HIGE DANDism – Mixed Nuts [Official Video]

The rhythmic tune will lift the mood of New Year and year-end parties even higher! It’s a track by Official HIGE DANDism, a pop band at the forefront of the Japanese music scene, released digitally in 2022.

Chosen as the opening theme for the anime SPY×FAMILY, adapted from the Jump+ manga, it became a hit.

One of its charms is the speedy yet jazzy arrangement that truly makes you want to call it “unstoppable.” As you keep listening, you’ll find your spirits mysteriously rising with excitement.

Play it as background music, and the venue will feel even more vibrant!

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Araki Jakkan

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Sign of LovePUFFY46rank/position

PUFFY “A Sign of Love” OFFICIAL MUSIC VIDEO

“Sign of Love,” released in 1998 as PUFFY’s sixth single, became a major hit.

In recent years, choreography videos posted on TikTok by the five-member popular dance creators Hoodie fam have gone viral, sparking a resurgence! With lyrics and composition by Masamune Kusano of Spitz and arrangement by Tamio Okuda, the sound is brimming with the flavor of Western pop from the ’60s and ’70s—perfect for a festive mood.

Aim for broad appeal with its classic pop sensibility, and be sure to try the TikTok-famous choreography too!

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hiyori

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Chiki Chiki Bang BangQUEENDOM47rank/position

TV anime “Ya Boy Kongming!” OP theme “Chitty Chitty Bang Bang” [Tried Dancing] with 3D Virtual Eiko

This is a cover by QUEENDOM of a party song from Hungary that colors the opening of the anime Ya Boy Kongming! With Japanese lyrics set to a bright, catchy melody, its repeated phrases and rhythmic beat are irresistibly addictive.

Released in May 2022, this track hit No.

1 on the iTunes anime song chart.

Its fast tempo and danceable groove will get your body moving naturally.

The choreography is easy to learn, and the chorus hype instantly draws everyone in.

With a glamorous, party-ready vibe, it’s the perfect song to bring any year-end or New Year’s party to a fever pitch!

The One and Only Flower in the WorldSMAP48rank/position

The Only Flower in the World – SMAP

Even people who aren’t SMAP fans know and love this song, “Sekai ni Hitotsu Dake no Hana.” Released in 2003 as SMAP’s 35th single, it’s a beloved national anthem of sorts, also famous for having been written and composed by Noriyuki Makihara.

Because it’s a song everyone knows, it’s easy to get the crowd excited, and with its relaxed tempo, it’s a number that even those who aren’t confident at dancing can move to.

I’m sure the audience will end up humming along as well.

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utatane

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GONGWANIMA49rank/position

WANIMA「GONG」OFFICIAL MUSIC VIDEO

WANIMA’s “GONG” is the theme song for the film One Piece: Stampede and is included on the single Summer Trap!!.

You can feel the excitement of an adventure beginning and the strong determination to push toward the future through its powerful sound.

Because they’re a three-piece band, each instrument’s tone can be clearly heard, so it’s important not only to rely on sheer momentum but also to be mindful of playing with precision.

While the performance has plenty of power, the rhythms and chords are fundamentally straightforward, so let’s proceed with an awareness of how to add drive and momentum within that framework.

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kappamaki

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