Which famous New Year's Eve song was written by American composer Frank Loesser?

“What Are You Doing New Year's Eve?” was written by American composer Frank Loesser.

Loesser wrote the song in 1947, creating a sophisticated popular standard that asks about a person’s plans well beyond the immediate holiday. The lyric’s unusual perspective gives it a romantic, anticipatory mood rather than the communal farewell atmosphere associated with “Auld Lang Syne.”

The song became widely recorded by jazz, pop, and vocal artists. Its melody and wording have helped it remain part of seasonal listening even though it is not a traditional folk song. Many listeners know the title from recordings rather than from a single definitive performance.

Frank Loesser also wrote the music and lyrics for major stage and film works, including the musical “Guys and Dolls.” That broader career sometimes causes confusion about authorship, but “What Are You Doing New Year’s Eve?” is specifically credited to Loesser.