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

SouthboundCarrie Underwood

Carrie Underwood – Southbound (Official Music Video)

The song is “Southbound,” released in 2018 by the songstress and iconic American female artist Carrie Underwood.

It’s included on the album “Cry Pretty.” “Southbound” apparently means heading south.

It’s a track that makes you want to take a road trip through the great outdoors under the blazing sun! While the content isn’t directly related to partying, it’s so catchy that I think it fits a wide range of vibes.

Good Luck, Babe!Chappell Roan

Chappell Roan: Good Luck, Babe! | The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon

In 2024, the artist who had the biggest breakthrough was surely Chapel Roan, a singer-songwriter born in 1999.

Though she debuted young and faced her share of struggles, her April 2024 release “Good Luck, Babe!” became a global hit and instantly made her a widely recognized artist.

While “Good Luck, Babe!”, which explores the complexities of queer relationships, isn’t exactly a bright song, its overwhelming sense of exhilaration makes it a powerhouse pop anthem that will undoubtedly light up both year-end and New Year’s parties.

Just be warned: it demands some serious vocal chops!

Light SwitchCharlie Puth

Charlie Puth – Light Switch [Official Music Video]

A song whose sweet, catchy melodies and beats linger in your ears.

Released by Charlie Puth in January 2022, this track served as the lead single from his album “Charlie” and generated major buzz, especially on social media.

Its lyrics use a clever metaphor—flickering lights—to portray the fate of a passionate love that flares up and fades away.

Created while sharing the production process with fans, the song achieved worldwide success, earning double platinum certifications in countries like Australia and Canada.

It’s perfect for energizing party scenes, so why not try singing it at festive gatherings like year-end or New Year’s parties?

IllusionDua Lipa

Dua Lipa – Illusion (Official Music Video)

Dua Lipa’s song, which portrays a fantastical push-and-pull of romance, is a perfect number to liven up year-end and New Year parties.

Its message brimming with self-confidence and its sophisticated sound are irresistible, and the danceable rhythm will instantly elevate the atmosphere of any venue.

Released in April 2024, the track has drawn attention as a single from the album Radical Optimism.

The music video shot in Barcelona also created a buzz.

At gatherings of Western pop enthusiasts, this song can help everyone share a sense of confidence and liberation.

It’s the perfect track when you want to energize the dance floor together.

BLOW (with Chris Stapleton & Bruno Mars)Ed Sheeran

Ed Sheeran – BLOW (with Chris Stapleton & Bruno Mars) [Official Music Video]

It’s a gorgeous piece featuring singer-songwriter and guitarist Chris Stapleton and singer Bruno Mars.

The heavy, 1980s-style guitar sound—uncharacteristic for Ed Sheeran—made a strong impression and became a talking point.

The sound, far removed from his previous dance-oriented tracks, is intriguing, and the humorous, wild lyrics make it a cool song.

Its up-tempo feel makes it perfect for parties; it could even serve as an early spark to kick things off.

Bad HabitsEd Sheeran

Ed Sheeran – Bad Habits [Official Video]

Ed Sheeran, the British singer-songwriter who ranks among the best-selling artists in the music scene since the 2010s, released his fifth studio album, ‘=’ (Equals), in October 2021, which memorably debuted at No.

1 on charts around the world.

‘Bad Habits’ was unveiled in June 2021 as the lead single from the album—a track marked by synth-pop styling and a melody that feels more wistful than purely upbeat.

The music video, featuring Ed as a vampire, also drew attention.

True to its title, the song reflects Ed looking back on his wilder nights and urging himself toward reflection and restraint.

If you overindulged at year-end parties, why not sing this song at your New Year gatherings to help you regain your composure?

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Eyes ClosedEd Sheeran

Ed Sheeran – Eyes Closed [Official Video]

At times it stays close to the heart, and at times it stirs it.

Ed Sheeran’s song is marked by a warm melody that gently embraces the sorrow of losing someone dear, and lyrics that capture tender, aching feelings.

Released in March 2023 as the lead single from the album Subtract, it drew a huge response worldwide.

With themes of loss and renewal, this moving track weaves together a voice that resonates deeply and the sound of piano.

It’s perfect for nights when you want to linger in memories of someone special, or when you need music that sits gently beside your heart.