[2025] Classic and Popular Western Songs to Listen to in January: Recommended Hits
When asked what music you want to listen to in January, many people probably imagine the songs that play around New Year’s at supermarkets, department stores, and on TV shows.
It’s nice to relax with familiar background music, but since January marks a fresh start to the year, why not kick things off by listening to some popular Western hits?
In this article, we’re highlighting not only songs that celebrate the New Year or have a January theme, but also classic Western tracks that will give you a boost as you greet the year with a renewed mindset.
We’ve gathered a wide range of songs, old and new, across different eras to introduce to you!
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[2025] Masterpieces of Western Music to Listen to in January: Recommended Popular Songs (81–90)
My Dear AcquaintancePeggy Lee
As a gentle song to celebrate a fresh start in January, I recommend a holiday track by Peggy Lee.
Her warm vocals tenderly wrap feelings of gratitude for close friends and strangers alike.
The calm melody skillfully conveys hopes for the new year and wishes for peace.
The song was included on the 2006 album “Christmas with Peggy Lee,” and it was also featured in the 2020 rerelease “Peggy Lee Ultimate Christmas,” commemorating the 100th anniversary of her birth.
While it incorporates elements of jazz and swing, it remains highly accessible to listeners.
It’s a perfect choice for those who want to share the joy of welcoming the new year with loved ones or begin the year with a sense of tranquility.
January On Lake StreetAtmosphere
Atmosphere is a rapper-and-DJ duo sometimes labeled as underground hip-hop.
Their music is highly distinctive, marked by unconventional track-making.
They’re popular in the United States, and while their penetration in Japan is uncertain, this is a January rap song you won’t regret listening to.
New Year’s DayBon Jovi
Bon Jovi, the legendary rock band that’s even in the Hall of Fame.
When it comes to songs you want to hear for the New Year, “New Year’s Day” is the one.
The track carries a message of embracing new challenges as we welcome the new year.
Combined with its refreshing melody, it lifts your spirits and fills you with positivity.
Incidentally, 2016—the year this song was released—was also a major turning point for Bon Jovi.
Knowing that background will make it even more relatable.
The New YearDeath Cab for Cutie
Death Cab for Cutie is an American rock band formed in 1997.
They are known as a leading band in indie rock and indie pop.
Since they were nominated for a Grammy in 2015, those with some experience listening to overseas bands may already be familiar with them.
Their song “The New Year” is a perfect track for January, celebrating the start of a new year.
The melody is classic indie pop.
Be sure to check it out.
What Are You Doing New Year’s Eve?Idina Menzel
Idina Menzel, who is popular as a musical theater actress, was nominated for the Tony Award for Best Featured Actress for the Broadway musical Rent and won the Best Actress award for Wicked.
She is also known for playing Elsa in the film Frozen, so many people in Japan may recognize her voice.
The song she sings here, What Are You Doing New Year’s Eve?, is about the beginning of the year.
It’s arranged as slow jazz, so it’s recommended for jazz lovers as well.
January 28J. Cole
A track by American rapper J.
Cole that centers on his own birthday, January 28.
It’s a song where Cole’s smooth rap rides over an incredibly catchy beat.
As the title bears his actual birthday, the feelings packed into this track are immeasurable.
It’s a rap song that makes January 28 a special day.
[2025] Classic and Popular Western Songs to Listen to in January (91–100)
Light YearsJamiroquai
Jamiroquai, the band that gained worldwide popularity with “Virtual Insanity.” In Japan, they’re a hugely popular band that anyone with even a passing knowledge of Western music would know.
Their biggest draw is, without a doubt, their musical style.
Their distinctive sound—acid jazz infused with neo-soul-like arrangements—has influenced many artists.
Take Suchmos, for example; most of their songs have a Jamiroquai-like vibe.
Among Jamiroquai’s tracks, the one I want you to listen to in January is “Light Years.” It features a soulful arrangement close to funk and neo-soul.