'Auld Lang Syne' translates to 'long, long ago' and is the tune that most people sing to usher in the new year. This traditional song predates the 1788 poem of the same name by Scottish poet Robert Burns, but he is commonly attributed with having created it. Given its popularity during the 12 days of Christmas it is hardly surprising that so many artists have recorded their own version of it through the ages.

Here is a list of the most well known versions by contemporary artists:

1952 - A recorded concert given by Judy Garland in the Palace Theater in New York features her singing a version of 'Auld Lang Syne' along with the audience. 

1964 - The Beach Boys wrapped up their Christmas message, read by Dennis Wilson, in a harmonic version of 'Auld Lang Syne' for their 'The Beach Boys' Christmas Album'.

1969 - Another live album, 'Live At Fillmore East',  this time with Jimi Hendrix ringing in the New Year (1970) through a volley of screeching chords.

1976 - Elvis' 'Live In Pittsburgh' was recorded on New Year's Eve 1976 and featured a short rendition of the anthem by the legend.

1999 - Billy Joel certainly had perfect timing when his concert at Madison Square Gardens on New Year's Eve 1999 was recorded for posterity. In hindsight his vocals may sound a little ragged but we'll put that down to the millennium bug.

2004 - Canadian band Barenaked Ladies recorded 'Auld Lang Syne' for their massive 20-track 'Barenaked For The Holidays' collection.

2010 - Mariah Carey turned the old staple on its head for her 'Merry Christmas II You'. It starts out traditionally enough but before you have hugged your nearest neighbour it goes uptempo by developing a dance beat. Fine once its in the moment, but in the cold light of day it does sound a little tacky.