Lovely winter song

[2025] Classic and Popular Western Songs to Listen to in January: Recommended Hits

music writerKOH-1
Started working as a music writer as a side job while employed at a record shop, and have been contributing to music magazines and web media for over 15 years. Although Western music is my main field, I always strive to stay curious with the motto, “I like what I like.” I have experience playing in a band, where I was a bassist responsible for songwriting and composition. Instruments I’ve performed on include bass, guitar, and piano. I resumed piano lessons after turning 40 and have been continuing ever since!

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!

[2025] Classic and Popular Western Songs to Listen to in January (51–60)

New Year’s ResolutionCamera Obscura

Camera Obscura – New Year’s Resolution (4AD Session)

New Year's ResolutionCamera Obscura

Camera Obscura is an indie pop band from Scotland.

Their musical style falls into the genre of twee pop, which is characterized by pure, youthful messages and melody-driven songwriting.

Their song “New Year’s Resolution,” themed around the New Year, showcases this musical identity.

While it may seem like a New Year-themed love song at first glance, it actually sings about the challenges of reciprocating friendship and affection toward their fans.

It’s a masterpiece that purely portrays a struggle shared by many artists.

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What Are You Doing New Year’s Eve?Carpenters

Carpenters – What Are You Doing New Year’s Eve?

What Are You Doing New Year's Eve?Carpenters

The Carpenters have produced numerous masterpieces, and when it comes to their song for January, are you familiar with “What Are You Doing New Year’s Eve?”, which sings about New Year’s Eve? It’s a jazzy, swoon-worthy tune—an indulgent piece that flows with a magically romantic mood.

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Another Year Has Gone ByCéline Dion

Céline Dion – Another Year Has Gone By (Official Audio)

Another Year Has Gone ByCéline Dion

Celine Dion, a Canadian female singer well known even in Japan.

She is currently battling illness, but the songs she has created continue to give courage and move many listeners.

Among her works, the one I especially recommend for January is Another Year Has Gone By.

It’s a peaceful love song that expresses renewed gratitude for a romance that continues even after a year has passed.

If you plan to spend the New Year with your partner, this is a must-check track.

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January RainDavid Gray

January Rain

January RainDavid Gray

January Rain by David Gray, a singer-songwriter from Manchester, England.

Layered guitars with effective, spacious textures create an enchanting, otherworldly sound.

Experience this wonderful song of January for yourself.

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[2025] Classic and popular Western songs to listen to in January (61–70)

JanuaryDisclosure feat. Jamie Moon

January

JanuaryDisclosure feat. Jamie Moon

A collaboration between the British dance music duo Disclosure and fellow UK singer-songwriter Jamie Moon, titled “January”! It’s a track where a four-on-the-floor dance beat carries Moon’s stylish vocals.

It’s incredibly danceable, so I’d say this is a January song you’ll want to listen to in style when you feel like dancing!

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January SunFizzy Blood

Fizzy Blood – JANUARY SUN

January SunFizzy Blood

Fiji Blue is an alternative rock band formed in 2014.

Though they’re a band from the 2010s, their sound carries the thick, gritty alternative vibe of the 2000s, which may feel nostalgic to fans of rock from that era.

But they’re not just about nostalgia—the band has forged a fresh musical identity with new ideas.

Experience their expression on “JANUARY SUN.”

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JanuaryGoldfinger

January (lyrics) – GoldFinger

JanuaryGoldfinger

Goldfinger, known as one of the bands representing pop punk and ska-core.

They’ve created countless classic tracks, but the one I especially recommend for the New Year or January is January.

While the song is wrapped in a bright, pop-punk sound, it’s actually a heartbreak tune about lingering feelings for a lover they broke up with in less than a year.

The way the protagonist looks back on a fleeting romance from January to December is pitiable, yet somehow endearingly charming.

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