The clock hits 11:58 PM. Your playlist suddenly feels wrong. Half the room wants to dance, the other half wants something meaningful, and you forgot to include anything for the actual countdown.

Sound familiar? Music can make or break your New Year’s celebration, but most people stick to the same five overplayed tracks every year.

This post changes that. You’ll find carefully chosen songs from cultures around the world, organized by exactly when and how to use them.

Plus, you’ll learn what actually makes a song perfect for New Year’s Eve and how to build a playlist that works from dinner to dawn.

What Makes a Great New Year’s Song?

Not every party song fits New Year’s Eve. The best songs for this night work because they touch something more profound in us.

They make us want to dance, think, or feel connected to the people around us. Some tracks pump energy into a crowded room, while others help us sit quietly with our thoughts as one year ends and another begins.

• Themes of renewal, reflection, or celebration: The lyrics often talk about second chances, letting go of the past, or celebrating what’s ahead.
• A strong emotional pull, whether joyful or nostalgic: These songs make you feel something real, from tears of joy to bittersweet memories of the year that just passed.
• Timing flexibility, working before midnight, during the countdown, or after: Great New Year’s tracks fit different moments throughout the night, not just the final ten seconds.
• Cultural meaning, tradition, or shared memory: Some songs carry history and tradition, connecting us to celebrations that happened long before we were born.

New Year’s Songs From Cultures Around the World

Now comes the good part. Below are 91 songs organized by mood, timing, and cultural background so you can build the perfect playlist for your celebration.

Classic New Year’s Songs

These are the songs people expect to hear when the calendar flips. They carry decades of tradition and shared memories. Play them when you want everyone in the room to feel connected to something bigger than just one night.

1. Auld Lang Syne

The most recognized New Year’s song in the world. People link arms and sing it right after midnight, honoring old friendships and the year that passed. No celebration feels complete without it.

• Artist: Traditional Scottish folk song
  
• When to play: Exactly at midnight or in the first few minutes of the new year.

2. Happy New Year

A bittersweet pop ballad that mixes hope with a touch of sadness. The lyrics acknowledge that not every year is perfect, but we still wish for better days ahead. It works for both quiet gatherings and larger parties.

• Artist: ABBA
• When to play: Early evening or just before midnight when the mood turns reflective.

3. New Year’s Day

This rock anthem talks about starting fresh after conflict. The guitar riff is unforgettable, and the message hits hard for anyone who wants a clean slate. It fits both personal reflection and group celebrations.

• Artist: U2
  
• When to play: Late evening or right after midnight, when energy is high but thoughtful.

4. This Is the New Year

An uplifting indie pop track about wiping the slate clean. The piano melody builds slowly, and the chorus makes you want to believe things will get better. Perfect for people who need that push into the new year.

• Artist: A Great Big World
  
• When to play: Just after midnight or during a toast to new beginnings.

5. New Year

A pop track with electronic beats and lyrics about moving on from heartbreak. The upbeat tempo keeps energy levels high while still acknowledging the emotional weight of endings. Great for younger crowds.

• Artist: Sugababes
  
• When to play: Mid-party when you want to keep the dance floor moving but add some depth.

6. It’s Just Another New Year’s Eve

A slower, jazzy number about spending the holiday alone. The tone is melancholic but beautiful, making it ideal for smaller, intimate gatherings. Not every New Year’s Eve needs to be a big production.

• Artist: Barry Manilow
  
• When to play: Early evening during cocktail hour or quiet dinners.

7. New Year’s Day

A country-pop love song about staying together despite mistakes. The acoustic guitar and honest lyrics make it feel personal and real. It works for couples or close friends ringing in the new year together.

• Artist: Taylor Swift
  
• When to play: Late night after the big countdown, when the party winds down.

8. Same Old Lang Syne

A storytelling song about running into an old lover on New Year’s Eve. The lyrics are detailed and emotional, painting a clear picture of nostalgia and lost time. It hits hardest when played during reflective moments.

• Artist: Dan Fogelberg
  
• When to play: Mid-evening when guests are settled and ready to listen.

9. What Are You Doing New Year’s Eve

A jazz standard with a sweet, romantic tone. The question in the title feels hopeful and warm, perfect for anyone spending the night with someone special. Ella’s voice makes it timeless.

• Artist: Ella Fitzgerald
  
• When to play: During dinner or as background music before midnight.

10. What Are You Doing New Year’s Eve

The same song as above, but with Sinatra’s smooth delivery. This version leans more into classic elegance and sophistication. It sets the tone for formal gatherings or black-tie events.

• Artist: Nancy Wilson
  
• When to play: Cocktail hour or pre-party mingling.

Countdown & Midnight Moment Songs

These tracks are made for the exact moment the clock strikes twelve. They bring energy, excitement, and that final burst of joy before a brand new year begins. Load these up when the countdown hits ten seconds.

11. Countdown

An energetic pop song with a beat that matches the final seconds of the year. The lyrics count down moments and build anticipation. Play it right before midnight to get everyone on their feet.

• Artist: Beyoncé
  
• When to play: During the actual countdown to midnight.

12. The Final Countdown

A rock anthem with synth-heavy production and a dramatic feel. The title alone makes it perfect for the last minutes of the year. Everyone knows the opening riff, and it creates instant excitement.

• Artist: Europe
  
• When to play: Five to ten minutes before midnight to build tension.

13. Celebration

A funk and soul classic that screams pure joy. The horns, the groove, and the simple chorus make it easy for everyone to sing along. This song turns any room into a celebration.

• Artist: Kool & the Gang
  
• When to play: Right at midnight or immediately after.

14. Don’t Stop Believin’

One of the most universally loved rock songs ever made. The piano intro is iconic, and the message about holding onto hope fits perfectly with New Year’s themes. Expect the whole room to sing along.

• Artist: Journey
  
• When to play: Just before or right after midnight when emotions are high.

15. Time of Our Lives

A Latin-influenced pop anthem about living in the moment. The beat is infectious, and the lyrics remind everyone to make the most of the night. Great for high-energy countdowns.

• Artist: Pitbull featuring Ne-Yo
  
• When to play: During the countdown or the first dance of the new year.

16. Raise Your Glass

A rebellious pop-rock song about celebrating the underdogs. The message is empowering, and the tempo keeps energy levels high. Perfect for crowds that like to break the rules a little.

• Artist: Pink
  
• When to play: Right at midnight or during a champagne toast.

17. Firework

An inspirational pop anthem about letting your true self shine. The explosive chorus pairs perfectly with actual fireworks at midnight. The message is hopeful without being too sentimental.

• Artist: Katy Perry
• When to play: At midnight when fireworks go off.

18. On Top of the World

An indie rock song with a carefree, optimistic vibe. The lyrics talk about feeling unstoppable and grateful. It works well for groups starting the year with big plans and high spirits.

• Artist: Imagine Dragons
• When to play: Just after midnight, when the mood is celebratory and light.

19. Best Day of My Life

An indie pop track with hand claps, whistles, and pure positivity. The tempo is fast, and the lyrics are simple enough for everyone to shout along. It’s hard not to smile when this song plays.

• Artist: American Authors
• When to play: Right after midnight during the first minutes of the new year.

20. I Gotta Feeling

A dance-pop hit that became the soundtrack to celebrations everywhere. The buildup in the song mirrors the buildup to midnight perfectly. Everyone knows the words, and the energy never drops.

• Artist: Black Eyed Peas
• When to play: During the countdown or immediately after midnight.

Party-Ready New Year’s Songs

These tracks keep the dance floor packed and the energy high. They work best before midnight when people are still arriving, and the party is building momentum. Load up your playlist with these if you want non-stop movement.

21. Party Rock Anthem

An electronic dance track with a heavy beat and party-focused lyrics. The shuffle dance craze made this song even more popular. It’s loud, fun, and completely shameless.

• Artist: LMFAO
  
• When to play: Early to mid-party when you need to fill the dance floor fast.

22. Can’t Stop the Feeling

A feel-good pop song with a bouncy rhythm and upbeat message. The production is clean, and the lyrics are positive without being preachy. Kids and adults both love it.

• Artist: Justin Timberlake
• When to play: Anytime during the party when you need a crowd-pleaser.

23. Uptown Funk

A funk and soul throwback with modern production. The horns, the groove, and Bruno’s vocals make it impossible to sit still. This song gets everyone moving, regardless of age.

• Artist: Mark Ronson featuring Bruno Mars
• When to play: Peak party hours before midnight.

24. Yeah!

A hip-hop and R&B hit with a crunk beat that dominated clubs for years. The energy is contagious, and the song never feels dated. Perfect for late-night dance sessions.

• Artist: Usher featuring Lil Jon and Ludacris
• When to play: Mid to late party when the crowd is warmed up and ready to dance hard.

25. Levitating

A disco-inspired pop track with retro vibes and a modern edge. The bassline is groovy, and the lyrics are flirty and fun. It’s become a staple at parties and celebrations.

• Artist: Dua Lipa
  
• When to play: Anytime during the party when you want a contemporary hit.

26. Shut Up and Dance

An indie rock song with new wave influences and an irresistible hook. The story in the lyrics makes it more than just a dance track. People love singing along to the chorus.

• Artist: Walk the Moon
• When to play: Mid-party when energy is building toward midnight.

27. We Found Love

An EDM and pop collaboration with a powerful beat drop. The emotional vocals contrast with the high-energy production. It works for both dancing and singing along.

• Artist: Rihanna featuring Calvin Harris
• When to play: Late in the party when people are fully committed to the dance floor.

28. Blinding Lights

A synth-pop hit with an 80s feel and modern polish. The driving beat and catchy melody made it one of the biggest songs in recent years. It fits almost any party vibe.

• Artist: The Weeknd
• When to play: Anytime during the party, but especially mid-evening.

29. Get Lucky

A disco-funk track with smooth production and Nile Rodgers on guitar. The vibe is cool and laid-back but still danceable. It appeals to a wide age range.

• Artist: Daft Punk featuring Pharrell Williams
• When to play: Mid-party when you want to keep energy up but not too intense.

30. DJ Got Us Fallin’ in Love

A club-ready pop and dance track with electronic production. The beat is relentless, and the lyrics are all about losing yourself in the music. Great for peak dance hours.

• Artist: Usher featuring Pitbull
• When to play: Late party before the midnight countdown.

International & Cultural New Year’s Songs

These songs connect you to traditions from around the world. They bring history, culture, and global flavors to your celebration. Use them to honor heritage or introduce your guests to something new.

31. Radetzky March

A classical march performed every year at the Vienna New Year’s Concert. The audience claps along in rhythm, creating a sense of unity and tradition. It’s formal but joyful.

• Artist: Johann Strauss Sr.
• When to play: During a formal dinner or as part of a classical music set.
• Cultural context: Austrian tradition, often played at midnight in Vienna.

32. Danza de los Viejitos

A lively folk dance song from Michoacán, Mexico. The music is playful, and the dance involves performers dressed as old men. It’s often played during celebrations and festivals.

• Artist: Traditional Mexican Folk
• When to play: Early to mid-party to introduce cultural variety.
• Cultural context: Mexican folk tradition, celebratory and humorous in tone.

33. Marcha de Año Nuevo

A traditional Spanish march is played during New Year’s celebrations. The rhythm is steady and formal, often heard at public events and gatherings. It carries a sense of ceremony.

• Artist: Spanish Traditional
• When to play: Right before or after midnight during formal moments.
• Cultural context: Spanish New Year’s Eve tradition, pairs with eating grapes at midnight.

34. Oshogatsu no Uta

A children’s song about the Japanese New Year. The melody is simple and cheerful, often sung by families during Oshogatsu celebrations. It emphasizes family and fresh starts.

• Artist: Japanese Traditional
• When to play: During family gatherings or multicultural celebrations.
• Cultural context: Japanese New Year tradition, which focuses on renewal and gratitude.

35. Nochevieja

A Spanish pop-rock song about New Year’s Eve. The lyrics reflect on memories and hopes for the future. The melody is catchy and emotional at the same time.

• Artist: La Oreja de Van Gogh
• When to play: Mid-evening or during reflective moments.
• Cultural context: Spanish-speaking audiences, modern but culturally rooted.

36. Bonne Année

A simple French greeting song sung during New Year’s celebrations. The melody is warm and welcoming, often shared among friends and family. It’s less formal than other traditional songs.

• Artist: Traditional French
• When to play: After midnight during toasts or greetings.
• Cultural context: French tradition, used in intimate or family settings.

37. Año Nuevo Vida Nueva

A salsa track with Afro-Cuban rhythms and Celia’s powerful voice. The lyrics talk about leaving the past behind and starting fresh. The energy is high, and the message is clear.

• Artist: Celia Cruz
• When to play: Late party or right after midnight when dancing is in full swing.
• Cultural context: Latin American tradition, celebratory and forward-looking.

38. Happy New Year (Chinese Version)

A Mandarin song celebrating the Lunar New Year. The melody is bright, and the lyrics wish prosperity and good fortune. Often played during family gatherings and public celebrations.

• Artist: Various Artists
• When to play: During multicultural events or Lunar New Year parties.
• Cultural context: Chinese New Year tradition, which focuses on luck and family unity.

39. Feliz Año Nuevo

A cumbia track with traditional Mexican instrumentation. The song wishes everyone a happy New Year with a danceable rhythm. It’s festive and inclusive.

• Artist: La Sonora Santanera
• When to play: Mid to late party when you want to add Latin flavor.
• Cultural context: Mexican tradition, blends cumbia with New Year themes.

40. Enter Sandman

A high-impact rock track driven by heavy riffs and relentless momentum, instantly energizing the crowd. Its bold sound makes it ideal for late-night New Year celebrations that lean toward a rock or alternative vibe.

• Why it fits: A powerful, instantly recognizable track that brings raw energy to late-night celebrations.
• When to play: After midnight at rock-focused or high-energy New Year gatherings.
• Cultural context: A modern rock staple commonly used in party settings rather than traditional New Year events.

Reflective & End-of-Year Songs

These slower tracks help people process the year that just ended. They work best during quieter moments or when the party naturally slows down. Play them when you want guests to connect emotionally.

41. The Climb

A pop ballad about perseverance and growth. The lyrics remind listeners that the struggle matters more than the destination. It’s emotional without being too heavy.

• Artist: Miley Cyrus
• When to play: Mid-evening during dinner or quieter conversation.

42. Let It Be

A soothing, piano-led song centered on acceptance and reassurance during uncertain times. Its timeless message makes it especially meaningful as a new year begins.

• Artist: The Beatles
• When to play: After midnight during calm or intimate celebrations.

43. Fix You

An emotional slow-build song focused on healing and support. It works well for listeners who want a moment of reflection before moving forward.

• Artist: Coldplay
• When to play: Late night or during a reflective pause.

44. Both Sides Now

A deeply introspective song about perspective, change, and how understanding evolves. Its gentle delivery makes it ideal for end-of-year reflection without feeling heavy.

• Artist: Joni Mitchell
• When to play: Late evening during quiet conversations or personal reflection.

45. The Night We Met

Soft, emotional, and restrained, this song reflects longing and unresolved feelings that many people associate with the year coming to an end.

• Artist: Lord Huron
• When to play: After midnight, when the mood turns introspective.

46. Holocene

A quiet, atmospheric track that encourages humility and perspective. It feels grounding, reminding listeners that endings can be peaceful rather than overwhelming.

• Artist: Bon Iver
• When to play: Late night when celebrations slow down.

47. Shake It Out

An indie rock song about letting go of regrets. The production is dramatic, and Florence’s voice soars. The message is about releasing the past and moving forward.

• Artist: Florence + The Machine
• When to play: Late evening or right before midnight as a final release.

48. Gravity

A blues-influenced track about feeling pulled down by life. The guitar work is subtle, and the lyrics are honest about struggle. It resonates with anyone facing challenges.

• Artist: John Mayer
• When to play: Mid-evening during introspective moments.

49. Everybody’s Got to Learn Sometime

A soft rock song about heartbreak and growth. The melody is gentle, and the message acknowledges that pain teaches us. It’s melancholic but not depressing.

• Artist: The Korgis
• When to play: Early evening or during quieter party moments.

50. Slow Dancing in a Burning Room

Emotionally raw and reflective, this song captures the complexity of endings without being dramatic. It resonates strongly during moments of transition.

• Artist: John Mayer
• When to play: Late evening during smaller, intimate gatherings.

Pop & Modern New Year’s Songs

These contemporary tracks bring current sounds and modern energy. They work well for younger crowds or anyone who wants their playlist to feel fresh. Mix them with classics to balance nostalgia and newness.

51. New Year’s Eve

A hip-hop track with laid-back production and smooth vocals. Snoop’s signature style makes it cool and approachable. The lyrics focus on partying and celebration.

• Artist: Snoop Dogg featuring Marty James
• When to play: Mid-party when you want hip-hop energy without being too intense.

52. New Year’s Day

An a cappella version of U2’s classic. The harmonies are tight, and the arrangement adds a fresh twist to a familiar song. It showcases vocal talent and creativity.

• Artist: Pentatonix
• When to play: Mid-evening or as a unique alternative to the original version.

53. Champagne Problems

A pop song with a playful tone and party-focused lyrics. The production is bright, and the message is lighthearted. It fits well with pre-midnight celebrations.

• Artist: Katy Perry
• When to play: Mid-party during champagne toasts or cocktail hour.

54. Joy for the Holidays

A warm, country-pop song centered on closeness, affection, and shared moments during the holiday season. The gentle vocals and heartfelt lyrics create an intimate atmosphere that feels comforting and sincere.

• Artist: Casi Joy
• When to play: Around midnight or during slow dances in a relaxed, romantic setting.

55. 1999

A funk and pop anthem that became the song for millennium celebrations. The production is bold, and Prince’s energy is contagious. It still feels relevant decades later.

• Artist: Prince
• When to play: Late party or during nostalgic throwback moments.

56. Year 3000

A pop-rock song with sci-fi-themed lyrics about the future. The melody is catchy, and the vibe is fun and optimistic. It appeals to younger audiences.

• Artist: Jonas Brothers
• When to play: Mid-party when you want something upbeat and lighthearted.

57. New Rules

A pop anthem about setting boundaries and moving on. The beat is danceable, and the message is empowering. It became a breakout hit for good reason.

• Artist: Dua Lipa
• When to play: Mid to late party when energy is high.

58. Dog Days Are Over

An uplifting indie-pop anthem that captures the feeling of leaving difficult times behind. Its gradual build and joyful release make it feel symbolic of stepping into a brighter new year.

• Artist: Florence + The Machine
• When to play: Shortly after midnight when the mood turns hopeful.

59. Better Days

A smooth, upbeat track focused on optimism and moving forward. The laid-back rhythm and positive message make it easy to enjoy without overpowering the moment.

• Artist: OneRepublic
• When to play: Mid-party or after midnight to reinforce a positive, forward-looking mood.

60. Confident

A pop and R&B track with swagger and attitude. The lyrics are bold, and the production is punchy. It’s perfect for anyone starting the year with big plans.

• Artist: Demi Lovato
• When to play: Mid-party or right after midnight during high-energy moments.

Songs About Fresh Starts & New Beginnings

These tracks focus on hope, renewal, and moving forward. They work best right after midnight when everyone is ready to commit to a better year. The lyrics inspire action and optimism.

61. Brand New

A piano-driven pop song about feeling renewed and grateful. The melody is warm, and the lyrics talk about simple joys and fresh perspectives. It’s genuine and heartfelt.

• Artist: Ben Rector
• When to play: Right after midnight or during morning-after gatherings.

62. Begin Again

A country-pop ballad about second chances in love. The lyrics are specific and personal, making the story feel real. The message is hopeful without ignoring past pain.

• Artist: Taylor Swift
• When to play: Late night after midnight during quieter moments.

63. It’s a New Day

A hip-hop and pop track with an empowering message. The production is uplifting, and the lyrics focus on opportunity and change. It feels like a motivational speech set to music.

• Artist: will.i.am
• When to play: Right after midnight or during a morning celebration.

64. A Sky Full of Stars

An EDM-influenced pop song about love and wonder. The production builds beautifully, and the chorus feels euphoric. It captures the magic of new possibilities.

• Artist: Coldplay
• When to play: Right at midnight or during the first dance of the new year.

65. Stronger

A pop-rock anthem about surviving hardship and coming back better. Kelly’s powerful vocals drive the message home. It’s become a go-to song for anyone needing strength.

• Artist: Kelly Clarkson
• When to play: Right after midnight or during motivational toasts.

66. Roar

A pop anthem about finding your voice and standing up for yourself. The beat is strong, and the lyrics are empowering. It’s bold and unapologetic.

• Artist: Katy Perry
• When to play: Right after midnight or during high-energy celebrations.

67. Born This Way

A dance-pop song about self-acceptance and equality. The message is powerful, and the production is massive. It celebrates individuality and courage.

• Artist: Lady Gaga
• When to play: Late party or right after midnight when spirits are high.

68. High Hopes

A pop-rock song with brass instrumentation and an optimistic message. The energy builds throughout, and the lyrics encourage big dreams. It’s infectious and motivating.

• Artist: Panic! at the Disco
• When to play: Right after midnight or during champagne toasts.

69. Walking on Sunshine

A new wave classic with pure joy in every note. The horns, the vocals, and the tempo create instant happiness. It’s impossible to stay still when this plays.

• Artist: Katrina & The Waves
• When to play: Right after midnight or during morning celebrations.

70. Hall of Fame

A pop-rock anthem about achieving greatness and leaving a legacy. The message is motivational, and the production supports the uplifting lyrics. It inspires action.

• Artist: The Script featuring will.i.am
• When to play: Right after midnight during goal-setting or resolution moments.

Chill & After-Midnight Vibes Songs

These songs work when the party winds down, and people start to relax. They keep good energy without being too intense. Perfect for late-night conversations or watching the sun come up.

71. Midnight City

A synth-heavy indie track with a dreamy, nocturnal feel. The saxophone solo is iconic, and the production creates a sense of floating. It’s perfect for late-night drives or wind-down moments.

• Artist: M83
• When to play: After midnight during chill-out time or as the party softens.

72. Dreams

A soft rock classic with ethereal vocals and smooth production. The bassline is hypnotic, and Stevie Nicks’ voice carries the song effortlessly. It feels timeless.

• Artist: Fleetwood Mac
• When to play: Late night or early morning as guests relax.

73. Electric Feel

A psychedelic pop track with funky rhythms and electronic production. The vibe is cool and laid-back but still engaging. It’s great for late-night listening.

• Artist: MGMT
• When to play: After midnight, when energy is still present but more subdued.

74. Golden

A soft rock song with warm production and carefree lyrics. The melody is sunny, and Harry’s voice feels effortless. It’s perfect for morning-after vibes.

• Artist: Harry Styles
• When to play: Early morning or during brunch the next day.

75. Good Life

A pop song with hand claps and an uplifting message about gratitude: the production is bright, and the lyrics focus on appreciating what you have. It’s feel-good without being cheesy.

• Artist: OneRepublic
• When to play: After midnight or during morning gatherings.

76. Sunday Best

A breezy pop song with acoustic guitar and positive vibes. The melody is catchy and straightforward, and the lyrics talk about living your best life. It’s perfect for lazy mornings.

• Artist: Surfaces
• When to play: Morning after the party or during brunch.

77. Sunflower

A hip-hop and pop collaboration with a smooth, melodic flow. The production is light, and the vibe is relaxed. It works well for winding down or background music.

• Artist: Post Malone and Swae Lee
• When to play: After midnight during low-key moments.

78. Ocean Eyes

A soft pop ballad with minimal production and emotional vocals. The song feels intimate and vulnerable. It’s perfect for quiet moments or small gatherings.

• Artist: Billie Eilish
• When to play: Late night or early morning during reflective time.

79. Yellow

A gentle rock ballad with beautiful lyrics and Chris Martin’s heartfelt vocals. The guitar work is delicate, and the message is simple yet powerful. It’s a modern classic.

• Artist: Coldplay
• When to play: Late night or morning after, during calm moments.

80. Riptide

An indie folk song with ukulele and quirky lyrics. The melody is light and catchy, and the vibe is carefree. It’s great for ending the night on a positive note.

• Artist: Vance Joy
• When to play: After midnight or the morning after, during relaxed settings.

Bonus Crowd-Pleasing Favorites Songs

These songs work at almost any point in the night. They’re universally loved, easy to sing along to, and guaranteed to get a reaction. Keep them ready for any moment that needs a boost.

81. Best Night

A bright, high-energy pop track built around big hooks and an uplifting chorus that encourages people to live in the moment. Its celebratory tone makes it ideal for shared sing-along moments during New Year parties.

• Artist: LMFAO
• When to play: Late in the party, when the crowd is energized and ready to celebrate together.

82. Eye of the Tiger

A hard rock anthem synonymous with determination and strength. The guitar riff is legendary, and the song pumps energy into any room. It’s motivational and timeless.

• Artist: Survivor
• When to play: Mid-party or right after midnight during high-energy moments.

83. Livin’ on a Prayer

A rock classic that everyone knows word for word. The sing-along factor is off the charts, and the energy never drops. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

• Artist: Bon Jovi
• When to play: Mid to late party when you want the whole room singing.

84. Sweet Caroline

A soft rock song that turns into a massive group sing-along. The “bah bah bah” section is iconic, and the vibe is warm and inclusive. People of all ages love it.

• Artist: Neil Diamond
• When to play: Mid-party during peak social moments.

85. Dancing Queen

A disco classic with infectious energy and timeless appeal. The melody is bright, and the lyrics celebrate youth and joy. It gets everyone on the dance floor.

• Artist: ABBA
• When to play: Mid-party when you want maximum participation.

86. Good Times

A smooth, groove-led disco classic driven by a relaxed bassline and upbeat rhythm that keeps people moving without feeling overwhelming. The song’s carefree feel makes it ideal for shared celebration and late-night dancing.

• Artist: Chic
• When to play: Mid to late party when the energy is steady, and the dance floor is full.

87. I Wanna Dance with Somebody

A pop and dance classic with Whitney’s powerhouse vocals. The song is about longing and connection, and the beat keeps people moving. It’s eternally popular.

• Artist: Whitney Houston
• When to play: Mid-party when energy is high, and people want to dance.

88. Crazy in Love

An R&B and hip-hop hit with bold horns and Beyoncé’s commanding presence. The energy is fierce, and the beat is unforgettable. It dominates any playlist.

• Artist: Beyoncé featuring Jay-Z
• When to play: Late party during peak dancing hours.

89. Stayin’ Alive

A disco anthem with a bassline and falsetto vocals that defined an era. The groove is steady, and the song never feels dated. It’s a dance floor staple.

• Artist: Bee Gees
• When to play: Mid-party when you want consistent energy.

90. Proud Mary

A rock and soul cover with explosive energy. Tina’s vocals are powerhouse, and the buildup in the song is electric. It starts slow and erupts into pure joy.

• Artist: Tina Turner
• When to play: Late party when you want to ramp up excitement.

91. I Will Survive

A disco anthem about resilience and independence: the message is empowering, and the beat is perfect for dancing. It’s become a cultural touchstone for overcoming challenges.

• Artist: Gloria Gaynor
• When to play: Anytime during the party, but mighty right after midnight.

Final Round

New Year’s songs do more than fill the silence. They connect us to traditions stretching back centuries and cultures spanning continents.

The songs in this guide give you options for every moment of your celebration, from quiet reflection to wild dancing at midnight. Your playlist should feel personal, not generic.

Mix the classics your family expects with modern tracks that reflect who you are now. Combine cultural traditions with contemporary hits.

Start building your New Year’s playlist today using these categories as your guide.

Which songs will you play when the clock strikes twelve? Share your favorites in the comments below.