[Band Performance] Recommended Songs to Liven Up Year-End and New Year Parties [2025]

Heroineback number

back number – Heroine (full)

When it comes to winter songs by rock bands, this one is indispensable! It’s back number’s signature winter track, from a band known for countless love songs.

A mid-tempo ballad that sets candid lyrics—about wanting to spend this winter with you—to a familiar, easy-listening melody.

It’s neither too intense nor too subdued, making it perfect to perform as a party or banquet interlude.

Plus, the wintery imagery woven into the lyrics fits the season perfectly, so I highly recommend it.

crimsonX JAPAN

X Japan - Kurenai

When people hear “a rock band song,” many—depending on their generation—might think of this track.

It’s a signature song by X JAPAN, the legendary rock band representing Japan, and it’s practically in the hall of fame, still heard in many settings today.

From the instruments to the vocals, every part is highly challenging, making it a song that’s not easy to cover.

But that’s exactly why the sense of achievement and excitement when you perform it well is exceptional.

Be sure to practice thoroughly and show it off!

Precious thingsRoad of Major

Lord of Major / Precious Things

Formed after being headhunted for an audition variety show project, Road of Major is a four-piece rock band.

Their indie debut single “Taisetsu na Mono” became a major hit, spending 19 consecutive weeks in the Oricon Top 10.

Although the arrangement is straightforward and simple, the tempo is fast, so be careful not to let the band’s rhythm drift.

It’s a hit tune known across generations and is sure to liven up year-end and New Year party performances.

astronomical observationBUMP OF CHICKEN

BUMP OF CHICKEN “Stargazing”

I imagine there are quite a lot of people who started a band after listening to BUMP OF CHICKEN.

On the other hand, there are also many who don’t usually listen to rock bands but still know BUMP OF CHICKEN’s songs.

This track is one of their signature songs, loved by such a wide audience.

The bass part is notably more difficult than the others, but I encourage you to practice it thoroughly and give it a try.

It’s a crisp, refreshing tune, so I think it’s perfect for performing as a lighthearted entertainment piece as well!

Year-end songs from 12/26 onward[Alexandros]

[With Lyrics] [Alexandros] Year-end Song from 12/26 Onward

Speaking of year-end parties, aren’t they the last big event of the year? It’s also a time when people look back over the past year and share their resolutions for the next.

This song by the hugely popular rock band [Alexandros] captures that end-of-year vibe.

They’ve created music for commercials and movie theme songs, and they’re widely supported even beyond rock listeners.

In this track, gentle, calm melodies are paired with lyrics that are perfect for the year’s end.

It’s a great recommendation when you want to play something with a warm, soothing feel.

migratory bird[Alexandros]

Dusk+y Migratory Bird

This is “Wataridori,” released by the rock band [Alexandros], well known from commercials and more.

It’s a refreshing rock tune brimming with speed.

While the song is incredibly satisfying to listen to, the most challenging part is, of course, the vocals.

It’s especially recommended for those confident in their high notes—you’ll definitely get to show off how cool you are! It’s guaranteed to get everyone pumped up.

peace signKenshi Yonezu

Peace Sign / Kenshi Yonezu Cultural Festival Cover Band

This is “Peace Sign” by Kenshi Yonezu, a singer-songwriter at the forefront of today’s music scene.

His signature song “Lemon” is great too, but for a year-end party it might feel a bit somber—so this is a recommended pick instead.

This track was used as the opening theme for the anime My Hero Academia, so plenty of people will recognize it! Let’s fire things up with this upbeat rock tune!