There are a lot of songs released in 2024 that could be added to the New Year's Eve playlist. From upbeat tracks to emotional ballads, this year's music delivered a diverse mix that captures the spirit of new beginnings, helping listeners embrace the exciting energy of the upcoming year, 2025.
To start the new year in style, here are 12 standout songs released in 2024 that can help make New Year's celebration truly unforgettable. So grab those headphones and get ready to update that 2025 New Year's Eve playlist with these tracks.
Must-add songs for the New Year's Eve playlist
1) Good Luck, Babe! - Chappell Roan
Good Luck, Babe! by Chappell Roan is the ideal track to kick off the new year. Picture an infectious voice wishing you all the best as you step into 2025, brimming with endless possibilities. However, it's important not to take the lyrics at face value; the song cleverly conveys a lighthearted message directed at someone masking their romantic feelings.
Embrace the new year with a spirit of self-empowerment, focusing on the importance of expressing your true emotions without hurting anyone.
2) Espresso - Sabrina Carpenter
Sabrina Carpenter serves up Espresso, a sultry and sophisticated pop and funk track with a synth-pop and disco twist. Released in April 2024 as part of the Short n' Sweet album, the song describes a strong impact someone has on another person. It's to the point that they can make them stay up all night like an espresso.
This song is perfect for the New Year's Eve playlist, most especially because it won Song of the Year at the 2024 MTV Video Music Awards.
3) Fortnight - Taylor Swift
Taylor Swift brings her storytelling prowess to the forefront with Fortnight. Released on April 19, 2024, as the lead single of her eleventh studio album, The Tortured Poets Department, the song captures the fleeting nature of time, reflecting on moments that feel like eternity but pass in the blink of an eye. Specifically, the short and forbidden love affair someone experienced still leaves a lasting impact after all the years.
The folk-pop blend, reminiscent of her Folklore era, pairs beautifully with her poetic lyrics. It is a perfect addition to the New Year's Eve playlist as it poses the idea of not having regrets anymore.
4) Disease - Lady Gaga
Disease marked the official return of the Mother Monster, Lady Gaga. Diving into the darker corners of pop, the song is a haunting yet powerful single released on October 25, 2024, which will be included in her upcoming album. The song confronts personal struggles and societal issues, weaving them into a layered and emotive experience.
The cinematic sound of Disease delivers emotion and introspection, much to Lady Gaga's vocal range. It is a must-add to the New Year's Eve playlist in terms of the groove and lyrical depth.
5) Birds of a Feather - Billie Eilish
Billie Eilish’s Birds of a Feather from her 2024 album Hit Me Hard and Soft delivers a dreamy alt-pop experience. The track explores unity and individuality through poetic metaphors and minimalist production, creating a haunting yet soothing atmosphere. Released in July 2024, it captures themes of enduring love and resilience, making it a fitting addition to any New Year's Eve playlist.
Co-written with FINNEAS, the song delves into the powerful emotions of attachment and commitment. Billie emphasizes eternal connection while leaving the meaning open for listeners’ interpretation. The siblings streamlined the song’s message during its creation, allowing its raw emotion and relatability to be the main point.
6) Life Is - Jessica Pratt
Jessica Pratt’s Life Is is a delicate track that feels timeless and profound. Released in February 2024, this single embraces simplicity, pairing her ethereal voice with soft acoustic guitar. The song meditates on the beauty of small moments and the unpredictability of life, making it a reflective addition to a New Year's Eve playlist.
7) Texas Hold 'Em - Beyonce
Beyoncé ups the ante with Texas Hold 'Em, a track from her eighth studio album, Cowboy Carter, released in March 2024. It is a bold and rhythmic track inspired by the popular card game. Particularly, the lyrics play with themes of risk and reward, metaphorically exploring relationships and ambition.
To kick off 2025, Texas Hold 'Em can set the stage for an electrifying start to the year, making it a must-have for any celebratory playlist.
8) Chk Chk Boom - Stray Kids
Stray Kids bring their signature loud sound with Chk Chk Boom, an intense track released in July 2024 as part of their ninth Korean-language extended play, Ate. The song’s explosive beats and bold lyrics celebrate individuality and breaking boundaries, resonating with their global fanbase. The music video for the song also adds excitement with special appearances from Hugh Jackman and Ryan Reynolds.
Moreover, the track features powerful rap verses, soaring vocals, and intricate production. Its infectious energy makes it a standout on any playlist, particularly for those looking to infuse a burst of adrenaline into their New Year's Eve playlist.
9) 360 - Charli XCX
Charli XCX delivers a futuristic banger with 360, blending hyperpop with experimental sounds. Released in May 2024, the track embraces a whirlwind of emotions personally experienced by Charli—attractiveness, egocentrism, vanity, and self-empowerment.
Moreover, its pulsating beats and addicting chorus ensure it will keep any New Year's Eve playlist vibrant and unpredictable.
10) Next Semester - Twenty One Pilots
It truly feels like the start of a new school year as we transition to the new year with Twenty One Pilots' Next Semester. This alternative rock anthem is about fresh starts and the struggles of growing up.
Released in March 2024, the song reflects on the transition from one phase of life to another, balancing hope with nostalgia. Furthermore, Next Semester is perfect for a New Year's Eve playlist celebrating new beginnings, reminding listeners of the value of resilience and optimism.
11) 3am - Rosé
For those who want to let go of the bad habit of overthinking past mistakes and decisions at 3 am, well, Rosé's 3 am could be a good addition to the New Year's Eve playlist. It was released in December 2024 as part of her debut studio album, Rosie.
Rosé sings of getting stuck in late-night thoughts and the vulnerability of sleepless moments. Its introspective tone adds a layer of sentimentality to any playlist, offering a quieter moment amidst upbeat tracks.
12) Yes, and? - Ariana Grande
Ariana Grande closes out the list with Yes, and?, a sultry pop track delving into the impact of others’ opinions on self-perception, emphasizing self-confidence and resilience. It reflects a journey of overcoming negativity and criticism while subtly responding to the wave of negative press Grande faced.
The song is a motivational anthem that provides a pat on the back to those who need it before facing the challenges the new year has for them. Its unique sound and empowering message also make it a standout on a New Year's Eve playlist.
These 12 songs are of different genres, ensuring that everyone's start of the new year is filled with surprises. From upbeat anthems to reflective ballads, there’s something for every mood and celebration. As the year begins, let these tracks inspire, energize, and accompany moments big and small.