The Scottish song traditionally sung at midnight during New Year celebrations is “Auld Lang Syne.”
“Auld Lang Syne” is based on a poem by Robert Burns, who wrote down and adapted traditional Scottish words in the late eighteenth century. Its title means “old long since,” commonly understood as referring to old times or bygone days. The song asks whether old acquaintances and memories should be forgotten, giving it a natural connection with year-end reflection.
The melody and wording spread far beyond Scotland during the nineteenth and twentieth centuries. In many countries it is sung at midnight, although the exact lyrics, language, and performance style vary. It is also used at farewells, reunions, graduations, and other transitions.
Auld Lang Syne is not exclusively a New Year song, and Robert Burns did not invent every underlying verse. His contribution helped establish the best-known literary form of a song rooted in earlier Scottish tradition.