Entertainment

Your Resolution Is to Add These Songs to Your New Year’s Eve Playlist on December 30, 2023 at 3:00 pm Us Weekly

Published

1 year ago

December 30, 2023

Who needs “Auld Lang Syne” when you’ve got Mariah Carey, ’NSync, and Taylor Swift?

December 31 is still awash in the echoes of Christmas music, but there are plenty of New Year’s Eve songs to blast as the final seconds of the year whittle down. Yes, there’s old standby “Auld Lang Syne” — a song written by Scottish poet Robert Burns in 1788 — but there are more contemporary New Year’s Eve songs to play as you pop champagne while rocking those novelty 2024 glasses.

There are classic tracks from Ella Fitzgerald, Nat “King” Cole, Otis Redding and Carla Thomas. Death Cab for Cutie has a fuzz-drenched anthem for the broke and brokenhearted. There’s even an excellent ska track from Montreal’s The Planet Smashers, something to play ahead of Carey’s club banger. There are even some slow tracks from Abba and Barry Manilow for those quieter moments.

In addition to the following suggestions for your NYE playlist, there are plenty of songs unrelated to the holiday that you could include. Prince’s “Kiss” always makes for a good song to blast when the clock strikes midnight and you’re supposed to kiss someone for good luck. Europe’s “The Final Countdown” is good if you’re in a hair-metal mood. R.E.M’s “It’s the End of the World as We Know It (And I Feel Fine)” began as an ironic song for New Year’s Eve, but in recent times of political and environmental upheaval, the 1987 track is more appropriate than ever.

However grim the future may be, New Year’s Eve is a time to celebrate the potential that lies before us all. So, to get you in the mood, here are a few songs to put on before the Times Square ball drops — and one to blast after it’s all said and done:

Taylor Swift, “New Year’s Day”

Swift has seemingly confirmed that her 2017 album, Reputation, will be the next entry in the Taylor’s Version series. This means Swift’s self-described “goth-punk moment” will be the penultimate release before she completes the rerecording series with a new edition of her 2006 self-titled album. So, with Reputation (Taylor’s Version) on tap for 2024, Swifties can play “New Year’s Day,” a somber and reflective cut from the album, in eager anticipation — and in celebration of the monster year that saw now-billionaire Swift conquer the world.

Taylor Swift Buda Mendes/TAS23/Getty Images for TAS Rights Management

Mariah Carey, “Auld Lang Syne (The New Year’s Anthem)”

Every December, Carey rules the world’s minds, hearts and charts with “All I Want for Christmas Is You.” But the iconic singer doubled down on her role as Queen of Christmas in 2010 with the release of her second holiday album, Merry Christmas II You. The album of mostly Christmas classics ends with her performing “Auld Lang Syne (The New Year’s Anthem).” She, of course, put her own spin on it, turning the song into a club banger.

Ella Fitzgerald, “What Are You Doing New Year’s Eve”

The timeless song from Fitzgerald is perfect for any cocktail hour before the full party. Or, if you’re throwing a classy soirée, this jazzy, romantic song is vital for your playlist — and if you’re scrambling for a way to ask your crush out on a date, this is a great icebreaker. “Ah, but in case I stand one little chance,” she sings. “Here comes the jackpot question in advance / What are you doing New Year’s / New Year’s Eve?”

Snoop Dogg featuring Marty James, “New Year’s Eve”

Every season has a Snoop Dogg, including “New Year’s Eve.” On this holiday track, the “Doggfather” romances his boo (“On New Year’s Eve, and I do believe / On New Year’s Eve, we can live forever”) while counting down the seconds to a new year. Helping the rap icon out is singer-songwriter/producer Marty James (who cowrote the Justin Bieber and Daddy Yankee–powered remix of Luis Fonsi’s “Despacito”). It’s a track full of charm, confidence and cool that only Snoop Dogg can bring.

Snoop Dogg MARCEL KRIJGSMAN/ANP/AFP via Getty Images

Barry Manilow, “It’s Just Another New Year’s Eve”

Manilow’s “It’s Just Another New Year’s Eve” is a must if you plan to keep it mellow while greeting 2024. With a downtrodden piano melody and Manilow’s crooning, the song guides listeners to the other side of this holiday. “It’s just another New Year’s Eve / It’s just another Auld Lang Syne / But when we’re through this New Year / You’ll see we’ll be just fine,” he sings.

Death Cab for Cutie, “The New Year”

“So this is the new year / And I don’t feel any different / The clanking of crystal / Explosions off in the distance,” sings Benjamin Gibbard of Death Cab for Cutie on “The New Year,” the opening track to the band’s critically acclaimed 2003 album, Transatlanticism. With its fuzzed-out guitars and pining vocals equally full of wonder and melancholy, it’s a good song for those entering January with mixed feelings.

‘NSync, “Kiss Me at Midnight”

While it is a bit on the nose, ‘NSync’s “Kiss Me at Midnight” — from Home for Christmas, the band’s 1998 holiday album — should scratch the itch for those who want to celebrate the new year with boy-band goodness. Starting with a countdown, the song kicks into that pre-millennium pop that will make you nostalgic for frosted tips and TRL (which is appropriate since NYE is all about remembering the good times).

Lance Bass, Joey Fatone, JC Chasez, Chris Kirkpatrick and Justin Timberlake of NSYNC Kevin Mazur/Getty Images for MTV

Otis Redding and Carla Thomas, “New Year’s Resolution”

If you want something to help you keep your resolution this year, play this song by Redding and Thomas. “New Year’s Resolution” makes turning over a new leaf seem plausible. The song is a duet about two lovers acknowledging their faults. “Oh, let’s try it again,” Redding and Thomas sing in the chorus. “Just you and me / And, baby, let’s see how happy honey / That we can be / And call it a New Year’s resolution.”

Nat King Cole, “Happy New Year”

Forget the When We Were Young festival: Nat King Cole got emo on New Year’s Eve in 1966. While heartbroken and bitter about losing his love, Cole bitterly curses “the gay ones [who] don their silly paper hats / And blow their stupid little horns” while he’s sitting alone by the fire with a glass of wine in his hand.

From there, he sings, “I wish you a Happy New Year, darling / May your new love be bright and fair / I hope he’ll do those special things for you / That I would do if I were there.” While this might be a buzzkill for some, this is the song for you if you’re in a similar boat as Cole was.

The Planet Smashers, “Happy New Year’s”

With a jovial beat and tongues firmly in their cheeks, ska-punk legends The Planet Smashers show that “new year, new me” doesn’t apply to everyone. “Happy New Year’s, baby,” croons lead singer Matt Collyer. “Too bad this year I’m gonna make you crazy / I already messed up, and it’s minutes past midnight.” If you’re partying this New Year’s Eve with people who think resolutions are a joke, this is the tune to play.

Abba, “Happy New Year”

What makes New Year’s Eve a special holiday is that it can be so depressing — and it’s perfectly fine to celebrate this sad part of the night. If the prior 12 months have gone sideways and you’re ending the year worse for wear, celebrating can be a drag.

It even got joyous disco darlings Abba down in 1980. “No more champagne / And the fireworks are through / Here we are, me and you / Feeling lost and feeling blue,” sings Agnetha Fältskog. “It’s the end of the party / And the morning seems so gray / So unlike yesterday / Now’s the time for us to say.”

“Happy new year, happy new year,” Fältskog and Anni-Frid Lyngstad sing on the chorus. “May we all have our hopes, our will to try / If we don’t, we might as well lay down and die / You and I.”

ABBA Gus Stewart/Redferns

Judas Priest, “Living After Midnight”

There are plenty of songs to play after the clock strikes 12, ushering in January 1. Pink’s “Raise Your Glass,” Prince’s “1999” or Journey’s “Don’t Stop Believing” might be good ways to kick off the actual New Year. But if you want to celebrate the spirit of appreciating the moment before it’s gone and how limited our time on this planet is, go with Judas Priest’s “Living After Midnight.”

“Living after midnight / Rocking to the dawn / Loving till the morning / Then I’m gone, I’m gone,” sings Rob Halford, a.k.a. The Metal God. The heavy metal anthem will keep your party going well into the early hours. Isn’t that the best way to start the new year anyway?

Who needs “Auld Lang Syne” when you’ve got Mariah Carey, ’NSync, and Taylor Swift? December 31 is still awash in the echoes of Christmas music, but there are plenty of New Year’s Eve songs to blast as the final seconds of the year whittle down. Yes, there’s old standby “Auld Lang Syne” — a song

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Business

The Last of Us” Season 2: Cast and Creators Share Insights at SXSW

Published

9 hours ago

March 9, 2025

Bolanle Media Staff

The cast and creators of the highly anticipated second season of “The Last of Us” gathered at SXSW to discuss the upcoming season. The panel featured cast members Pedro Pascal (Joel), Bella Ramsey (Ellie), Gabriel Luna (Tommy), Kaitlyn Dever (Abby), Isabela Merced (Dina), and Young Mazino (Jesse), along with co-creators Neil Druckmann and Craig Mazin.

Navigating Expectations and Surprising Fans

With the immense success of season one, Druckmann and Mazin acknowledged the pressure to deliver a worthy follow-up. Mazin emphasized their approach to cater to both fans of the game and newcomers to the series. “We try and think about the people who have played the game and make sure that we keep them on their toes and a little bit surprised,” Mazin stated. Druckmann highlighted the emotional weight of adapting “The Last of Us Part II,” emphasizing the dedication of the entire production team to doing justice to the source material.

A Glimpse into Season 2

Attendees were treated to a trailer for season two, offering a glimpse into the evolving relationship between Joel and Ellie five years after the events of the first season. Ramsey described the changed dynamic, hinting at a rift between the characters. Pascal added that their relationship is in “a different place” and that it is “fucking heartbreaking”.

Big Ideas: Tribalism, Love, and Loss

The creators delved into the central themes of season two, including tribalism, the destructive nature of love, and the consequences of loss. Druckmann explained that the season explores the complexities of community and the dehumanization that can occur when groups clash. Mazin emphasized the escalation of these themes, highlighting the potential for isolation and the lengths characters will go to protect their loved ones.

New and Expanded Characters

The panel also touched on new characters and expanded roles in season two. Gabriel Luna discussed Tommy’s evolution into a father, emphasizing how it solidifies his purpose and strengthens his commitment to protecting his family and community. The introduction of new characters like Gail, played by Catherine O’Hara, and the expansion of existing characters like Isaac, played by Jeffrey Wright, promise to add depth and nuance to the narrative. Additionally, the inclusion of Joe Pantoliano as Eugene, a character mentioned but not seen in the game, offers a rewarding experience for longtime fans.

Music as a Binding Force

Music continues to play a significant role in “The Last of Us,” particularly in the relationship between Joel and Ellie. Ramsey shared that music serves as a bonding experience for the characters, mirroring the connection between the actors on set. The guitar, a symbol of Joel’s promise to teach Ellie, takes on a more prominent role in season two.

Diving into the Game

The actors discussed their individual approaches to engaging with the source material. Kaitlyn Dever shared her experience playing the game with her father, while Young Mazino admitted to playing the second game up to a certain point.

How to Find More Free Events

SXSW Official Schedule: Use the SXSW website to filter for free events.
Eventbrite: Browse listings for unofficial SXSW events, many of which are free or low-cost.

Whether you’re a badge holder or not, SXSW 2025 offers something for everyone. From delicious food to live music and interactive experiences, there’s no shortage of fun to be had without spending a fortune. So, grab your friends and enjoy the best of Austin without a badge!

Bolanle Media covers a wide range of topics, including film, technology, and culture. Our team creates easy-to-understand articles and news pieces that keep readers informed about the latest trends and events. If you’re looking for press coverage or want to share your story with a wider audience, we’d love to hear from you! Contact us today to discuss how we can help bring your news to life

Business

No Badge? No Problem: Free SXSW Events

Published

9 hours ago

March 9, 2025

Bolanle Media Staff

SXSW, one of the world’s most vibrant festivals, is underway in Austin, Texas, from March 7 to 15, 2025. While official badges can be pricey, there are plenty of free events and activities that allow everyone to join in on the fun without breaking the bank. Here’s a guide to some of the best free events at SXSW 2025:

Free Food and Drinks

Argentinian Barbecue at Tech N’ Fest
- Enjoy a fusion of Argentinian and Texas barbecue, along with complimentary wine and beer, at Buenos Cafe on March 7.

Love is Blind at Lucille
- Celebrate the fifth anniversary of Netflix’s “Love is Blind” with free coffee and cocktails at Lucille on Rainey Street.
Free Pastries and Non-Alcoholic Beer
- Handsome’s and Helium Mobile are hosting a gathering with free pastries and non-alcoholic beer, featuring DJ Jah Karma.
Mionetto Salone
- Experience Italian culture with free spritzes and Prosecco at the Mex-Ar Museum.

Interactive Experiences

Whataburger’s Museum of Art
- Explore hundreds of pieces of fan art and interactive features at Wanderlust Wine Co. on March 8-9.
Barbie Birthday Cake Mochi
- Enjoy free mochi ice cream at the SX Registrant booth from March 7 to 12.
Artisan Mercado@SXSW
- Discover local artisans and their wares at 419 Congress Ave. on March 7..

Music and Entertainment

Rolling Stone’s Future of Music Showcase
- Catch live music performances at ACL Live from March 11 to 14.

Taiwan Beats Day Party
- Enjoy Taiwanese hip-hop performances and cuisine at Seven on East 7th Street.
Something To Feel X SXSW Rnb Party
- Dance the night away at 612 W 4th St on March 7.

Networking and Community Events

K-Content Night 2025 @ SXSW
- Enjoy free dinner and drinks at Parlor & Yard on March 8.
SXSW Creator & Publisher Happy Hour
- Network with industry leaders at Chisos Boot Company on March 8.

How to Find More Free Events

SXSW Official Schedule: Use the SXSW website to filter for free events.
Eventbrite: Browse listings for unofficial SXSW events, many of which are free or low-cost.

Entertainment

Harvey Weinstein Diagnosed with Cancer

Published

2 days ago

March 7, 2025

Bolanle Media Staff

Harvey Weinstein, once a titan of Hollywood, now faces a new adversary: cancer. The 72-year-old former film producer has been diagnosed with chronic myeloid leukemia, a rare and serious form of bone marrow cancer. This revelation comes as Weinstein continues to serve time at Rikers Island in New York, adding another layer of complexity to his already tumultuous legal saga.

A History of Health Struggles

Weinstein’s cancer diagnosis is not an isolated incident in his medical history. Over the past year, he has grappled with a series of health complications:

September 2024: Emergency heart surgery to remove fluid from his lungs and heart
July 2024: Hospitalization for COVID-19 and double pneumonia
Ongoing issues: Diabetes, high blood pressure, and spinal stenosis

Dr. Elena Rodriguez, an oncologist not involved in Weinstein’s care, comments, “Chronic myeloid leukemia, especially in a patient with multiple comorbidities, presents significant treatment challenges in a prison environment.”

Legal Battles Continue

Despite his deteriorating health, Weinstein’s legal troubles persist:

April 2024: His 2020 New York conviction for sexual crimes was overturned
Current status: Serving a 16-year sentence for a 2022 rape conviction in Los Angeles
Upcoming: Facing a retrial in New York on charges of criminal sexual assault and rape, scheduled for April 15, 2025

Arthur Aidala, Weinstein’s attorney, has pushed for an expedited trial, stating, “Mr. Weinstein is terminally ill with cancer and is currently an innocent man in New York. Justice delayed is justice denied.”

The #MeToo Movement’s Reaction

Tarana Burke, founder of the #MeToo movement, offered a measured response: “While we cannot ignore the severity of a cancer diagnosis, it’s crucial to remember the severity of Weinstein’s actions and their impact on countless lives.”

Privacy Concerns and Public Interest

Weinstein’s team has called for privacy regarding his medical condition. Craig Rothfeld, his legal healthcare representative, emphasized, “Out of respect for Mr. Weinstein’s privacy, we will offer no further comment.”

However, the public interest in Weinstein’s case remains high, given his central role in sparking the #MeToo movement and his fall from grace in Hollywood.