The traditional New Year's Eve song based on a poem by Robert Burns is “Auld Lang Syne.”
Burns wrote down and adapted the Scots poem in 1788, drawing on older Scottish verses and a traditional melody. The title means “old long since,” commonly understood as referring to times long past or old acquaintances. Its themes of friendship, memory, and shared experience made it suitable for a year-end farewell.
The song became internationally famous through performances and recordings, especially those associated with Canadian bandleader Guy Lombardo. His orchestra helped establish it as a standard at midnight celebrations in North America during the twentieth century.
Lyrics and melodies vary considerably. Many people know only the opening verse and chorus, and some versions use modernized wording. It is not exclusively a New Year's song, but the midnight tradition is now its most recognizable setting.