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

Bite MeAvril Lavigne

Avril Lavigne – Bite Me (Official Video)

In the 2020s, many young artists from the so-called Gen Z are making music that echoes the pop-punk and emo sounds of the 2000s, and we often see them openly expressing their admiration for Avril Lavigne, the ultimate songstress of the pop-punk scene back then.

Having overcome a serious illness and still going strong, the “Emo Queen” Avril released the track “Bite Me” in November 2021—a quintessentially Avril, exhilarating killer tune that both young music fans and those who spent their youth in the 2000s can get hyped about together.

Featuring Travis Barker—Blink-182’s drummer and a powerhouse producer who can be called a key figure in today’s pop-punk revival—the song is pure 2000s nostalgia pop-punk, and its melody, which delivers a fierce message of anger toward an ex-boyfriend, is irresistibly catchy.

Be sure to check out the music video too, where Avril, accompanied by Travis and a crew of tough guys, storms her ex’s house in seriously cool style!

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Dumb Blonde (featuring Nicki Minaj) (Soundtrack of ‘The Hustle’)Avril Lavigne

Avril Lavigne – Dumb Blonde (featuring Nicki Minaj) (Official Video)

One track from Avril Lavigne’s 2019 album Head Above Water—her first release in five years—features a collaboration with the hugely popular, controversy-courting rapper Nicki Minaj.

Dumb Blonde is a fresh pairing of Avril’s timeless rock style with Nicki’s cool, powerful rap.

The song also touches on party themes, making it a recommended listen!

Sk8er BoiAvril Lavigne

Avril Lavigne – Sk8er Boi (Official Video)

When it comes to Avril Lavigne’s signature songs from when she debuted at 17, there’s no topping this one.

Telling the story of a girl who falls for a skater boy, it was released in November 2002 and became a massive hit worldwide.

Its aggressive melody and catchy chorus make it perfect for a singalong.

The lyrics, which emphasize the importance of not judging people by their looks or hobbies, still resonate with many today.

The music video, which highlighted Avril’s rebellious image, also drew attention and won Favorite Song at the 2003 Kids’ Choice Awards.

It’s a surefire crowd-pleaser for karaoke at year-end or New Year parties, guaranteed to liven up the room.

Boy With Luv feat. HalseyBTS

BTS (방탄소년단) ‘작은 것들을 위한 시 (Boy With Luv) (feat. Halsey)’ Official MV

In 2019, this was probably the biggest K-pop hit.

Astonishingly, it surpassed 100 million views just over 37 hours after its release, setting the fastest record in history.

The fresh, sparkling sound elevates the mood.

BTS, the globally popular male idol group, is especially supported by younger generations in Japan.

With their sweet looks, refined sense, and overwhelming dance performance, they captivate women around the world.

It’s a bright, highly recognizable song that’s easy to use at any timing, but it feels particularly well-suited for settings with many young women.

Crazy In LoveBeyoncé

Beyoncé – Crazy In Love (Live)

A massive hit famous for its intro featuring a funky horn section! Released in May 2003 as the lead single from Beyoncé’s solo debut album, Dangerously in Love, it became a huge success worldwide.

Beyond just a classic of R&B, it stands as one of the defining songs of the early 2000s, and it’s a track you often hear around town here in Japan as well.

It’s a love song that captures the intense emotions of falling in love, with powerful vocals and a catchy melody that leave a strong impression.

A perfect pick to get the crowd going at year-end parties or New Year gatherings at karaoke.

BeetlebumBlur

Blur – Beetlebum

Released as the lead single from their self-titled album Blur, this song marked the band’s departure from their earlier sound and a shift toward more experimental music.

Centered on frontman Damon Albarn’s experiences with heroin, its abstract lyrics explore both the allure and the dangers of addiction.

The melody shows a Beatles influence, and the track is characterized by a “sleepy,” “sexy” mood.

After its release in January 1997, it reached No.

1 on the UK Singles Chart.

It also earned a Silver certification and shipped over 200,000 copies, becoming a major hit.

As a song that epitomizes the 1990s music scene, it’s a must-listen for fans of alternative rock.

Don’t worry be HappyBob Marley

Bob Marley – Don’t worry be Happy

When it comes to songs that bring smiles to people around the world, many might think of this one.

Performed a cappella, it’s simple yet features a pleasant rhythm and a relaxed vibe.

Upon its release in 1988, it became an instant hit, reaching No.

1 on the Billboard Hot 100.

The following year, it achieved the remarkable feat of winning three Grammy Awards.

With lyrics that emphasize the importance of staying positive even when facing life’s challenges, it’s perfect for year-end or New Year’s parties.

It’s a song that will delight not only gatherings of Western music fans but people of all ages.