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

IrisGoo Goo Dolls

Goo Goo Dolls – Iris [Official Music Video] [4K Remaster]

Released in 1998 and featured on the soundtrack of the film City of Angels, this song is a classic, popular rock ballad that experienced a revival hit in 2025 through social media.

Its lyrics—about an angel with eternal life who falls in love with a human woman and resolves to give up his immortality—resonate widely with their universal themes of love and self-sacrifice.

A masterpiece that spent 18 consecutive weeks at No.

1 on Billboard’s airplay chart and was nominated for three Grammy Awards, it’s a perfect choice for karaoke at year-end and New Year parties where multiple generations gather.

With its relaxed tempo and catchy melody, it’s easy to sing, and the moving lyrics will elevate the atmosphere of the occasion!

WhateverOasis

Oasis – Whatever (Official Video)

This is definitely a surefire crowd-pleaser for any event bringing together the ’90s alternative rock generation! It’s a single released in December 1994 by Oasis, the greatest rock band the UK has ever produced.

Although it came out as a Japan-exclusive mini-album, it wasn’t included on any original studio album, so many people may have first discovered the song on the best-of compilation released in 2010.

The fusion of gorgeous strings by the London Philharmonic Orchestra with guitar rock creates a sound that could only be described as quintessentially British, and few would dispute its status as a bona fide classic.

At their miraculous return shows in Japan in 2025, this track turned into a massive sing-along; with its positive, empowering message of “you can do anything,” it’s the kind of song that can unite partygoers’ hearts—whether at year’s end or ringing in the New Year!

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Beat ItMichael Jackson

Michael Jackson – Beat It (Official 4K Video)

When you want to safely liven up a year-end or New Year’s party with a wide range of ages, you can always rely on universally known hit songs.

Michael Jackson, the “King of Pop,” released the historic classic “Beat It” in 1983, and the moment that intro starts, many people can’t help but grin.

Also famous in Japan under the title “Kon’ya wa Beat It,” this track features three guitarists—Eddie Van Halen, Steve Lukather, and Jackson Jr.—whose contributions gave birth to those legendary riffs and solos.

You could say it’s almost too classic and on-the-nose, but given how the 2020s have seen a clear resurgence of ’80s sounds on the charts, younger listeners might actually find it refreshingly new.

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HappyPharrell Williams

Pharrell Williams – Happy (Official Video)

A worldwide hit by Pharrell Williams, who continues to make a sensational impact not only in music but across various fields as a producer.

With its simple yet powerful message in the title “HAPPY” and a groovy, upbeat tempo, it’s the epitome of stylish, feel-good music.

It’s highly danceable, and the smooth sound of the chorus makes you want to play it again as soon as you’ve heard it once.

A timeless classic.

Why not use it to set the mood in the latter half of your year-end party?

A Bar Song (Tipsy)Shaboozey

Shaboozey – A Bar Song (Tipsy) [Official Visualizer]

Let me introduce a song that’s guaranteed to light up any after-party for year-end or New Year gatherings.

Created by Shaboozey, this track stands out with its unique blend of country and rap.

With lyrics themed around a fun night at the bar, it vividly captures the moments of breaking free from everyday stress.

Released in May 2024, the song captured the hearts of many listeners, even hitting No.

1 on the U.S.

iTunes chart.

It’s perfect for when you feel like grabbing a drink after work or want to pump up the energy at karaoke with friends.

Sing it together and blow away the fatigue of daily life!

It’s My LifeBon Jovi

Bon Jovi – It’s My Life (Official Music Video)

An old blockbuster song that everyone has heard at least once has the power to lift the mood of any gathering, regardless of genre or age.

In that sense, Bon Jovi’s songs are a perfect choice.

Among their many hits, I recommend the classic that heralded the start of the 2000s: “It’s My Life”! Also well known as comedian Nakayama Kinnikun’s theme song, this massive hit features a tight, heavy beat, guitar with a talk box reminiscent of “Livin’ on a Prayer,” and an irresistibly catchy melody delivering a powerful message—truly an anthem.

If you perform it at karaoke for a year-end or New Year’s party, you can bet on a rousing sing-along.

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Die With A SmileLady Gaga, Bruno Mars

Lady Gaga, Bruno Mars – Die With A Smile (Official Music Video)

An emotional ballad that portrays the final moments spent with a loved one.

Showcasing the exceptional vocals of Lady Gaga and Bruno Mars, this piece explores the theme of life’s fragility and underscores the importance of cherishing happiness in the present.

Released in August 2024, the song reveals a new side of both artists and has been highly praised by fans as a “timeless classic.” It’s perfect for closing out year-end or New Year gatherings, sung with heartfelt thoughts for someone special.

Its moving lyrics and beautiful melody will warmly envelop the atmosphere of the event.