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

Winter, againGLAY

GLAY / Winter, again

This is the 16th single by GLAY, a four-member rock band from Hokkaido that has continued to lead Japan’s rock scene without a single hiatus since their major debut.

Chosen as the campaign song for JR East’s “JR SKI SKI,” the track features an intro and lyrics that evoke the snowy landscapes of their native Hokkaido, captivating many listeners.

It’s also a classic winter song in J-pop, making it perfect as entertainment for winter events like year-end and New Year parties.

This rock number truly shines when performed in the cold season.

Sign of LoveSpitz

Spitz / Sign of Love

Spitz is a four-piece rock band that has released numerous iconic J-pop hits representing the 1990s, such as “Robinson” and “Cherry.” The song “Ai no Shirushi,” included on their first special album Kachoufuugetsu, is known as a self-cover of a track they originally provided to PUFFY.

Its overall simple ensemble, including the guitar solo, makes it approachable to try, and because it’s a song almost everyone has heard at least once, it’s sure to spark a chorus of the hook at year-end and New Year parties.

With its pleasant, pop and catchy melody, it’s a timeless classic.

SolaninASIAN KUNG-FU GENERATION

ASIAN KUNG-FU GENERATION 'Soranin'

Formed within the music club at Kanto Gakuin University, ASIAN KUNG-FU GENERATION—known by fans as Ajikan—released this track as their 14th single.

Chosen as the main theme for the film “Solanin,” it’s a rock number whose memorable guitar arpeggios and driving rhythm section beats linger in your ears.

With lyrics set in winter and a lyrical melody that evokes the song’s narrative, it’s a perfect fit for live shows right in the heart of the season, such as around New Year’s.

It’s a refreshing yet wistful number that will liven up events as entertainment for year-end and New Year parties.

Song of the DeadKANA-BOON

KANA-BOON 『Song of the Dead』Music Video【Anime『Zom 100: Bucket List of the Dead』OP Theme】

KANA-BOON, a four-piece rock band that launched a new lineup in 2022 and has been working vigorously ever since.

Their 18th single, “Song of the Dead,” was chosen as the opening theme for the TV anime Zom 100: Bucket List of the Dead.

The catchy, sing-along phrases have the power to bring the whole venue together at year-end or New Year parties.

However, because there are many fast passages, if the band isn’t tightly in sync it can end up sounding messy, so be sure to practice thoroughly both individually and as a band before the performance.

Tokyo Night DiveKOTORI

KOTORI “Tokyo Night Dive” Official Music Video

KOTORI is a four-piece rock band whose name—written in Roman letters—was taken from a classmate’s name out of a desire to “make a friend famous.” Tokyo Night Dive, included on their first album kike, is a comfortable number featuring a sentimental opening guitar arpeggio paired with a light, lively beat.

The ensemble’s distinctive contrast between a sense of speed and a floating feel makes it perfect even as entertainment for year-end or New Year’s parties.

With its overall straightforward and simple playing, it’s a rock tune I recommend to anyone who wants to try performing as a band.

Seesaw Game ~A Brave Love Song~Mr.Children

Mr.Children “Seesaw Game ~A Brave Love Song~” MUSIC VIDEO

Among Mr.

Children’s songs, this is a popular one with a strong rock vibe.

It starts low and gradually builds up, then explodes into a scream in the chorus! It also feels amazing to sing.

It’s a candid, passionate love song, so if there’s a girl you want to win over coming to your live show, it’s definitely worth covering.

I want to hug you.Mr.Children

Mr.Children “I Want to Hold You” MUSIC VIDEO

Mr.

Children have long been at the forefront of Japan’s J-pop and rock band scenes.

Their songs are widely known, and their lyrics—filled with warmth—are a major part of their appeal, earning them strong support from many fans.

Among their popular tracks, this one was reportedly created as a Christmas song, making it especially perfect for the year-end party season.

The music itself has a very gentle, soft atmosphere, and it really shines when performed with a restrained arrangement like acoustic guitar, bass, and a small drum set.