Robert Burns is credited with writing the best-known version of “Auld Lang Syne,” often sung at New Year’s Eve celebrations.
Burns sent a version of the Scots song to the Scots Musical Museum in 1788, noting that it drew on older traditional material. The title roughly means “old long since” or “for old times’ sake.” Its lyrics ask whether old acquaintances and remembered friendship should be forgotten, making it suitable for a reflective farewell to the old year.
The melody and wording changed through publication and performance, so Burns should not be treated as the sole creator of every element of the song. Earlier fragments with similar words existed, and the familiar tune became standardized through later musical arrangements.
The song became especially associated with New Year’s celebrations in the English-speaking world during the twentieth century. It is also used at reunions, funerals and other farewells, so its cultural role extends beyond December 31. The song is in the public domain.