[2026] Classic Western songs to celebrate the New Year: Popular tracks to kick off the year

Better DaysGoo Goo Dolls

Goo Goo Dolls – Better Days [Official Music Video]

The Goo Goo Dolls are a band that gained popularity with a sound rooted in alternative rock and pop rock.

If you listened to rock from the 1990s to the 2000s, you’ve probably heard of them.

Among their songs, the one that’s perfect for celebrating the New Year is “Better Days.” It’s a piece that calls for peace, but it isn’t somber; the lyrics convey a bright, uplifting message.

If you want to kick off the New Year with energy, this is a must-listen.

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Ryo

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CelebrationKool and The Gang

Kool & The Gang – Celebration

If you’re looking for the perfect song to celebrate the New Year, I recommend a signature track by the American funk/pop band Kool & the Gang.

Released in December 1980, this song encourages people to come together and celebrate the good times in life.

It emphasizes the importance of unity, love, and joy, uplifting everyone who listens.

In January 1981, it was played to celebrate the return of Americans who had been held hostage in Iran for a long time.

As a timeless classic performed at weddings, birthday parties, and other joyous occasions, it’s also perfect for New Year’s celebrations.

Our New YearTori Amos

Tori Amos-Our New Year

Tori Amos is an American singer-songwriter, pianist, and composer who has been active since 1979.

She is also known for her mezzo-soprano vocal range.

This song is included on her 2009 album Midwinter Graces.

What Will the New Year BringDonna Fargo

DONNA FARGO – What Will the New Year Bring? (1975)

Donna Fargo is an American country music singer-songwriter who has been active since 1967.

She has won numerous awards, including a Grammy.

This song is included on her 1975 album, “Whatever I Say Means I Love You.”

New Year’s ResolutionCamera Obscura

Camera Obscura – New Year’s Resolution (4AD Session)

Camera Obscura is a Scottish indie pop band that has been active since 1996.

This track is included on their 2013 album Desire Lines.

The album reached number 39 on the UK charts.

Happy New YearJustin Bieber ft. Jaden Smith

Justin Bieber Ft. Jaden Smith – Happy New Year (Oficial)

When it comes to the classic collaboration between Justin Bieber and Jaden Smith, “Never Say Never” is the first song that comes to mind, but they actually have a New Year–themed track as well.

Titled “Happy New Year,” this straightforwardly named song has a languid, downtempo R&B vibe.

It’s a youthful love song only two teenagers at the time could have created, brimming with an endearingly sweet and slightly embarrassing innocence.

The track wasn’t included on any album and was suddenly released on New Year’s Eve 2011, which may be why it’s relatively little-known despite their star power.

It’s perfect as background music for the hours spent with a young lover from New Year’s Eve into New Year’s Day—why not give it a listen?

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Happy New YearBenny Andersson

Happy New Year

It is included on Piano, a contemporary-style piano album released by Benny Andersson in 2017 on Deutsche Grammophon and Mono Music.

Benny Andersson, a former member of ABBA, was responsible for composing together with Björn Ulvaeus and is also active as a composer.