A classic that evokes the year’s end. Looking back on the year through music [Just a little left of this year!]
What kind of year has it been for you?
This year felt long yet short, and at last it’s time to wrap it up!
Year-end always comes with all sorts of events, and music is essential for getting into the spirit, right?
So in this article, we’ve picked out plenty of songs that are perfect for the end of the year.
From songs about the year’s end to winter tunes, we’ve gathered popular tracks across generations—so you’re sure to find the perfect song for you!
Whether you’re someone who says, “This year was great,” or someone who feels, “This year was so-so,” we’ve got a full lineup of year-end songs we hope you’ll listen to.
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Timeless songs that evoke the year-end season. Looking back on the year through music [Almost the end of the year!] (51–60)
A town where snow fallsBaishō Chieko
Although it is an old song, its distinctive melodic line leaves an unforgettable impression.
The composer is Yoshinao Nakada, known for creating songs beloved as school music, such as “Medaka no Gakko” and “Chiisai Aki Mitsuketa.” This piece was originally written as an insert song for an NHK radio drama and became a hit in 1952.
chicken riceHamada Masatoshi / Makihara Noriyuki
Year-end is full of events like Christmas and New Year’s, and many people spend it with family.
That’s why I’d like to introduce “Chicken Rice.” It’s a ballad about memories with family, and listening to it will surely warm your heart.
The song is performed by Masatoshi Hamada of the comedy duo Downtown, with Noriyuki Makihara handling the chorus and composition.
By the way, the lyrics were written by Hitoshi Matsumoto.
There’s also a version where Noriyuki Makihara is the main vocalist, so I hope you’ll listen to that as well.
Even when next year comesMy Hair is Bad
We bring you a timeless song that’s perfect for the season as the year draws to a close.
Brimming with bittersweet feelings and a faint sense of hope, it’s a gem that showcases My Hair is Bad’s sensibilities to the fullest.
Included on the album “woman’s,” this track has grown in popularity among fans since its release in October 2016.
The lyrics delicately portray emotions that sway in everyday life and the gap between ideals and reality, resonating with many listeners.
It’s perfect as background music for time spent with loved ones over the holidays, and it also accompanies quiet moments of looking back on the year.
Why not give it a listen at that moment when excitement and anxiety about the new year mingle together?
White LoversKuwata Keisuke
From the end of Christmas through the close of the year, there’s that unique melancholy that comes from realizing the year is about to end, isn’t there? A song that fits perfectly with that feeling is Keisuke Kuwata’s “Shiroi Koibito-tachi” (“White Lovers”).
Every year, it’s an indispensable bittersweet winter song.
When you feel lonely and heartbroken, listening to music that resonates with your mood lets you appreciate the brilliance of the work all over again.
That nostalgic feeling you can only experience at this time of year adds even more to what makes this piece a masterpiece.
Timeless songs that evoke the year’s end. Looking back on the year through music [Almost there for this year too!] (61–70)
January(yoru to) SAMPO
Although all members juggle full-time jobs with their music activities, (Yoru to) SAMPO is a five-piece rock band gaining attention, including winning the Grand Prix at the eo Music Try 20/21 contest.
Their track “January,” released on July 12, 2020, stands out with its simple rock ensemble and light, breezy melody.
The lyrics depict tidying up unnecessary things as the year turns, a theme that many hoping for a fresh start in the new year will likely relate to.
It’s a nostalgic pop tune that can make you feel positive as the year begins.
waiting in vainrokudenashi
Rokudenashi is a collaborative unit between the vocalist Ninjin and a Vocaloid producer.
“Machibouke” is their second digital single, released in 2021, with lyrics and composition by the Vocaloid producer Hifumi.
The song portrays a girl burning with unrequited love for you, spending the year-end season lonely and alone.
In the instrumental break, the piano melody sounds slightly off-kilter, as if reflecting her emotional state.
It’s a perfect song for the melancholic mood of year’s end, so please give it a try and sing it!
Winter SongKiroro
Winter is cold, but in a way it’s also a season that feels warm, isn’t it? Kiroro’s “Fuyu no Uta” sings about that uniquely winter warmth.
Among those who go back to their hometowns at the end of the year, there may be people who, for various reasons in recent years, haven’t been able to return.
This is a winter song I’d like those people to listen to while thinking of their families.
Within its gentle words, you can find the warmth of family that you feel even when you’re apart.