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[2026] Western songs you'd like to sing at year-end and New Year's parties: the latest crowd-pleasers and timeless classics

At year-end and New Year parties, it’s common to see the second round head to karaoke for some fun.

In fact, some people might be raring to go because karaoke is the real main event for them.

In this article, assuming a year-end or New Year party with Western-music lovers, we’ve gathered recommended favorites and hit songs—killer tunes guaranteed to get the crowd going when you sing them.

Timeless classics everyone knows are great, of course, but here we’re also highlighting the latest popular tracks and songs that have hit big in revivals.

In the latter half, you’ll find a richly varied lineup of golden oldies as well!

Be sure to check out this playlist that both teens who love Western music and adults alike can enjoy.

[2026] Western songs you’ll want to sing at year-end and New Year parties: the latest crowd-pleasers and timeless classics (111–120)

Wake Me UpAvicii

Avicii – Wake Me Up (Official Video)
Wake Me UpAvicii

Avicii, who is very popular in Japan as well, was a talented young producer whose passing in 2018 came as a great shock.

In the music video’s chorus, there’s a scene of riding a horse, and he boldly incorporated country melodies into the dance music scene.

Looking back, I truly think he was the one who paved the way for genre crossovers.

It’s a catchy track, so I think it’s perfect for livening up various occasions.

Kiss Me More (ft. SZA)Doja Cat

Doja Cat – Kiss Me More (Official Video) ft. SZA
Kiss Me More (ft. SZA)Doja Cat

A masterpiece that can only be described as superb: it’s retro and nostalgic in some ways, yet it has a pop sound that feels unmistakably of the 2020s.

“Kiss Me More,” released in April 2021 by one of today’s most dynamic female singer-songwriters, Doja Cat, featuring SZA, was unveiled as the lead single from her third album, “Planet Her,” which came out in June of the same year, and it became a massive hit around the world.

It has that cute yet sexy pop vibe so characteristic of Doja, with an amazing contrast between the rapid-fire rap sections and the languid, world-weary melody.

At a year-end or New Year’s party with friends who love R&B and hip-hop, if you and a partner can pull off Doja’s and SZA’s parts at karaoke, you’ll be the stars of the night!

The Emptiness MachineLinkin Park

The Emptiness Machine (Official Music Video) – Linkin Park
The Emptiness MachineLinkin Park

As a track to hype up year-end and New Year parties where metal and loud rock fans gather, I recommend this song announcing Linkin Park’s return.

With the addition of new member Emily Armstrong’s powerful vocals, it showcases a fresh direction for the band.

Released in September 2024, the song drew attention as the lead single from From Zero, their first new album in seven years.

Fire up the crowd with its emotional melodies and aggressive sound!

EspressoSabrina Carpenter

Characterized by confident lyrics and a captivating melody from Sabrina Carpenter—who made a major breakthrough in 2024—the song stands out for its unique metaphor of comparing romance to “espresso.” Released in April 2024 just before her Coachella performance, it quickly became a hot topic.

Packed with pop-culture slang and proper nouns, it resonates strongly with younger audiences.

As one of the biggest Western hits of 2024, it’s guaranteed to liven up any year-end or New Year after-party karaoke with its self-assured lyrics and catchy sound.

Bad HabitSteve Lacy

Steve Lacy – Bad Habit (Official Video)
Bad HabitSteve Lacy

The Internet, a group with a history of Grammy nominations—did you know that their guitarist, Steve Lacy, has made his solo debut as a singer? Among his songs, Bad Habit has sparked word-of-mouth with its uniquely original melody and has become a huge hit in the United States and the United Kingdom.

The overall vibe is laid-back, so it seems perfect for calming things down by singing it toward the end of a karaoke session.

Start by giving it a listen and immersing yourself in its world!

In conclusion

Whether it’s a year-end or New Year party, even at karaoke, it’s best to be mindful of the time, place, and occasion depending on who’s attending.

In this article, we’ve selected hit and popular songs—both old and new—that will liven up a variety of situations, so I hope you’ll find some to add to your karaoke repertoire!