The end of Gangnam Style

Feel like you never need to hear “Gangnam Style” again? You’re not alone: Psy told MTV News he’ll be “ending” his unavoidable dance-pop song — a No 2 smash on the Hot 100 whose video has been viewed over 1 billion times on YouTube — following his performance on Monday night on “Dick Clark’s New Year’s Rockin’ Eve.”

“Being in Times Square on New Year’s Eve is already special — it’s the biggest stage in the universe — plus it’s my birthday, so, with all that, it may be the ending of ‘Gangnam Style,’” said the Korean singer, who turned 35 on Monday. “I mean, what better way to do it? It’s my biggest and most meaningful birthday.”

The song won’t disappear entirely, of course; Psy admitted he has outstanding invitations to sing the song in Paris and China.

“And I’ve still got to do promo,” he added rather pragmatically. But after six solid months of nonstop horse-dancing, the artist has turned his attention to what he hopes turns into his next big hit. “[‘Gangnam Style’] became too popular, and so you start to have some concern about its life period,” Psy said. “I’m really working hard on a new single right now.”

Hosted by Ryan Seacrest — for the first time since the show’s titular figure died in April — “Dick Clark’s New Year’s Rockin’ Eve” also featured Taylor Swift, who wore leather trousers and a glittery red jacket to perform “I Knew You Were Trouble” and “We Are Never Ever Getting Back Together”. MC Hammer, Carly Rae Jepsen and Neon Trees also performed.

Celebrities also played a role in other cities’ celebrations, with Kylie Minogue launching the massive fireworks in Sydney, and Pet Shop Boys playing at Berlin’s Brandenberg Gate.