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

Funny Bunnythe pillows

the pillows / Funny Bunny

You can’t talk about 90s alternative rock without this band! Their pure, almost childlike lyrics resonate with just about anyone.

Since The Pillows are a three-piece band, it’s also great that you don’t need a big setup like keyboards or a second guitar when performing at year-end parties and the like.

It’s a song everyone can sing along to and really get pumped up!

rainbowFujifabric

Fujifabric – Niji (Rainbow)

Fujifabric is a three-piece rock band that has continued performing with the remaining members even after the sudden passing of its central figure, Masahiko Shimura, in 2009.

Their fifth single, “Niji,” became a hot topic again in 2018—thirteen years after its release—when it was featured as an insert song in the film Rainbow Days.

Distinct from Fujifabric’s earlier work, its sprightly rock ensemble, paired with a striking vocal, offers a pleasing listening experience.

With a straightforward yet lyrical arrangement that’s irresistibly catchy, it’s a rock tune guaranteed to get crowds going at live shows and parties alike.

WHERE?The Dance for Real at Night

Midnight Dance Club – Music Video “WHERE?”

Yoru no Honki Dance is a four-piece rock band that made their major debut in 2016, originally formed as a Ging Nang BOYZ cover band the members played in during high school.

WHERE?, the opening track of their first album DANCE TIME, pulls you into its world from the very first catchy guitar riff in the intro.

Its repeated phrases and tight ensemble make it fun to play as a band, too.

With a unique blend of drive and weightless float, this danceable rock tune is irresistibly addictive and guaranteed to hype up any party.

A rolling rock, morning falls upon youASIAN KUNG-FU GENERATION

ASIAN KUNG-FU GENERATION 'Rolling Rock, Morning Falls Upon You'

This is a song that uses the expression “rolling rock,” a symbol of rock music.

It was included on ASIAN KUNG-FU GENERATION’s fifth album, World World World, released in February 2008.

It also gained attention when it was used as the ending theme of the final episode of the anime Bocchi the Rock!.

“It may be tough right now, but morning will come someday”—the piece carries a deeply emotional message.

It’s a song that resonates across generations, so be sure to practice well and give it a performance.

I don’t want to get out of my futon.Uchikubi Gokumon Doukoukai

Uchikubi Gokumon Doukoukai 'I Don’t Want to Get Out of the Futon'

Have you seen the McDonald’s commercial featuring the hugely popular actress Sari Ito, who’s in high demand for dramas and films? She looks super cute waddling along all puffy and bundled up.

The song playing in that CM is Uchikubi Gokumon Doukoukai’s “I Don’t Want to Get Out of the Futon.” It’s a track that just repeats “It’s so cold I don’t want to get out of my futon!!,” and it’s guaranteed to be fun whether you’re singing it or listening to it.

With a heavy, headbanging sound reminiscent of heavy metal plus comical lyrics, make sure to lean into that contrast when you sing!

RewriteASIAN KUNG-FU GENERATION

ASIAN KUNG-FU GENERATION “Rewrite” (M-1 Grand Prix 2024 Promotion Video Theme Song)

A four-piece rock band, ASIAN KUNG-FU GENERATION, known for their straightforward messages and solid rock sound that appeal to a wide range of listeners, released this track as their fifth single.

It was used as the opening theme for the TV anime Fullmetal Alchemist and is a major hit, also known as the band’s first anime tie-in.

With a driving, live-ready tempo, it’s perfect for livening up year-end or New Year’s parties.

The performance is relatively easy as well, making it a recommended rock tune even for those not very accustomed to playing instruments.

Snow SmileBUMP OF CHICKEN

BUMP OF CHICKEN "Snow Smile"

Known by the nickname “Bump,” this is the fifth single by the rock band BUMP OF CHICKEN, formed by four members who have known each other since kindergarten.

The calm vocals over a wistful acoustic guitar arpeggio evoke the image of a winter sky.

With its relaxed tempo, it’s easy for bands to play together, and its subtly dry, wintry atmosphere makes it a great choice to perform as entertainment at year-end or New Year parties.

Whether the gathering is lively or a place to sip drinks quietly, it fits right in—an ideal winter song for anyone looking to perform with a band during the holiday season.