The traditional song strongly associated with New Year's Eve in English-speaking countries is “Auld Lang Syne.”
The song uses words recorded and adapted by Scottish poet Robert Burns in 1788. Its Scots title means “old long since,” or more naturally, “for old times' sake.” The lyrics ask whether old friendships and memories should be forgotten.
Its New Year's Eve connection developed through public celebrations and broadcasts, especially in the English-speaking world. The melody is commonly sung at midnight as people reflect on the year ending and the relationships that continue.
Burns did not necessarily invent every line or the tune; he assembled and reshaped traditional Scottish material. That history explains why versions differ in wording and melody. The song is also used at farewells, memorials, graduations, and other transitions—not only on December 31.