Europe recorded “The Final Countdown,” a song frequently played at New Year's Eve celebrations.
“The Final Countdown” was recorded by the Swedish rock band Europe and released as a single in 1986. Joey Tempest wrote the song, including its instantly recognizable synthesizer introduction. The track became an international hit and reached number one in several countries.
Its countdown imagery and triumphant opening make it a natural fit for parties marking a new year, even though the song was not originally written specifically for New Year's Eve. The lyrics use space-travel imagery, including a departure from Earth, rather than describing a calendar celebration.
The song is sometimes mistakenly attributed to better-known arena-rock groups from the same period. Europe, formed in Upplands Väsby, Sweden, had already released albums before its breakthrough, but “The Final Countdown” became the band's signature song. Its dramatic intro is especially recognizable when used before midnight or during a fireworks sequence.