[2026] Classic Western songs and recommended popular tracks to listen to in January

CelebrationKool and The Gang

Kool & The Gang – Celebration

This song, known as an indispensable anthem for celebrations, is marked by its cheerful shouts and groovy rhythm.

Released in 1980, it became Kool & The Gang’s first Billboard No.

1 hit.

It has continued to be loved as an international celebration song, even being played when the Iran hostage crisis was resolved.

Although it actually contains religious themes, its lyrics, which affirm and bless everything, make it perfect for marking a new beginning.

As you welcome the New Year and take your next step, it’s sure to give you a boost.

Truly a classic Western pop song full of hope—one you’ll want to listen to in January.

Let’s Start the New Year RightBing Crosby

Let’s Start The New Year Right (From “Holiday Inn” Soundtrack)

A gem of a song that delivers a heartwarming New Year’s melody and a message full of hope.

Created in 1942 for the Paramount film Holiday Inn, it beautifully captures the joy and anticipation of welcoming the New Year, accompanied by Bing Crosby’s gentle vocals.

Irving Berlin’s lyrics remind us of the value of looking back on the past while maintaining a positive outlook toward the future.

Released by Decca Records, this piece skillfully blends elements of jazz and pop—truly perfect for the New Year.

It’s a track I highly recommend to anyone who wants to greet the start of a new year with a heart full of hope.

All This TimeOneRepublic

All This Time

OneRepublic, a rock band popular in Japan as well, has produced many classic songs with their catchy pop-rock sound and meaningful messages.

Among them, the track I especially recommend for January is “All This Time.” While it isn’t explicitly themed around the New Year, its lyrics—about a protagonist who has grown numb to the many forms of love in life and then realizes the love they’ve been receiving from those around them—feel perfectly suited to the season.

expand_lessRaise the rankingexpand_morelower

Ryo

Report a problem

Raise Your GlassP!nk

P!nk – Raise Your Glass (Official Video)

Many people will be throwing parties with friends and family for the New Year.

A perfect choice for background music on such occasions is “Raise Your Glass.” This song is also famous as the theme for the romance drama “New Year’s Eve,” set on New Year’s Eve.

Its lyrics are all about having a great time together.

Fueled by Pink’s powerful vocals, the track delivers an energizing, uplifting experience.

expand_lessRaise the rankingexpand_morelower

yamamoto

Report a problem

Don’t Stop Believin’Journey

Journey – Don’t Stop Believin’ (Escape Tour 1981: Live In Houston)

At the start of the new year, many people feel not only various hopes but also an undefined sense of anxiety.

Even though faint signs of light are beginning to appear amid the difficult 2020s, it’s precisely in uncertain times like these that we want to listen to music delivering an unshakably positive and powerful message.

Formed in 1973 and still going strong today after weathering lineup changes, a breakup, and a reunion, the hugely popular American rock band Journey released “Don’t Stop Believin’” in 1981—a timeless anthem guaranteed to spark a massive sing-along that you can practically picture in a stadium.

It was also featured in the American TV drama series Glee, which centers on a high school glee club, and even became the title of Journey’s 2013 documentary film, so younger music fans may know it as well.

Its lyrics, which gaze warmly at everyday people, the exhortation to never stop believing, the overwhelmingly great melody, and the dramatic band ensemble all move the listener deeply.

As the new year begins, why not take a brave first step forward with this song by your side?

expand_lessRaise the rankingexpand_morelower

KOH-1

Report a problem