Recommended for Gen Z! Winter songs that will liven up your winter events
Generation Z refers to those born roughly between 1996 and 2012.
Also called digital natives, they’ve grown up with social media and subscriptions as the norm, so they tend to listen to a wide range of music across ages and genres.
As a result, revival hits have become more common.
Here, we’re introducing winter songs recommended for Gen Z.
We’ve gathered tracks that were released around the time they likely spent their formative years, so this is great not only for Gen Z listeners but also for anyone who wants to know what music Gen Z has been listening to!
Recommended for Gen Z! Winter songs to liven up your winter events (1–10)
Happy surprisenaniwa danshi
The 3rd single, known for its lyrics depicting winter magic and the joy of love, is a pop tune packed with a catchy melody and the sweetness of the season.
Chosen as the CM song for Sunstar’s Ora2 me series “Kuchimoto Beauty de Smile!”, it was released in November 2022.
The sparkling vocals of Naniwa Danshi are sure to make the Christmas season even more exciting.
It also includes Lawson’s Christmas campaign theme song, drawing attention as a track that brightens winter events.
The cute lyrics evoke precious moments with a lover, making it a perfect song for anyone who wants to spend the cold season warmly.
HappinessAI
With heartwarming lyrics and a bright melody, this song gives listeners hope and a positive feeling.
Released in November 2011, it was used as the TV commercial song for Coca-Cola’s Christmas campaign.
AI’s distinctive vocals and the accessible lyrics are quite memorable.
With total downloads exceeding three million, it received Platinum certification in February 2012, showing the strong support it has garnered.
It’s the perfect track to liven up winter events or cheer up a friend who’s feeling down.
It’s also a great choice for karaoke.
broad daylightKing Gnu
This is King Gnu’s second digital single, notable for its delicate vocals and piano.
Released in February 2019 as the theme song for the NTV drama “Innocence: False Accusation Lawyer,” its lyrics express deep sorrow, regret, and hope with a universality that listeners can relate to through their own experiences.
The gentle tempo and emotional melody have captivated the hearts of younger audiences.
It peaked at No.
2 on the Billboard Japan Hot 100 and has surpassed 500 million streams, making it one of King Gnu’s signature songs.
It’s a moving ballad you’ll want to listen to alone on a winter night.
IlluminationSEKAI NO OWARI
This song was chosen as the theme for the TV Asahi drama “Legal V: Ex-Lawyer Shoko Takanashi.” Characterized by a pop sound that still conveys emotional depth, it was released as a digital single in October 2018.
The grand strings color the track, and the lyrics, filled with hope and anticipation, resonate with listeners’ hearts.
SEKAI NO OWARI have said that the song’s theme is “strength and kindness that remain even after being burned by flames.” Warm enough to blow away the winter chill, it’s a track you’ll want to listen to while walking through a city wrapped in illuminations.
Winter TaleSandaime Jē Sōru Burazāzu fromu Eguzairu Toraibu
An emotional ballad number whose transparent piano sound and expressive vocals evoke winter scenes.
Released in October 2013, it’s the 10th single by Sandaime J Soul Brothers from EXILE TRIBE, and was used as the ending theme for Nippon TV’s “PON!” as well as a commercial song for Huis Ten Bosch.
The lyrics, which overlay a bittersweet love with winter landscapes, warm the heart in the cold season.
It’s a moving winter song you’ll want to listen to at Christmas with someone special or on a date with your partner.
SubtitleOfisharu Higedan Dism
An emotional and dramatic winter ballad that seeks warmth amid the cold of winter.
Released by Official HIGE DANDism in October 2022, this song was chosen as the theme for the Fuji TV drama “silent.” Its piano-centered, melodious sound and clear, translucent vocals seep into the heart.
The lyrics, which portray the power of words and the difficulty and beauty of moving people through them, deeply resonate with listeners.
It’s a song you’ll want to hear when you wish to deepen a relationship with someone important or when you’re holding feelings you can’t put into words.
TomorrowFurui Riho
This is a heartwarming winter anthem from Furui Riho.
Rooted in R&B and gospel, her vocals bring a cozy groove to the cold snowy mountains.
The lyrics, which highlight the preciousness of time spent with friends and the determination to move forward, are also a must-hear.
Released in December 2024, this track pairs her with producer Taka Perry, crystallizing the bond deepened through the June 2024 tour.
The music video features everyday moments with her bandmates and childhood photos, evoking a sense of connection with loved ones.
It’s a gem that blends tenderness and exhilaration—perfect for the ride home after a tiring day on the slopes or for quiet conversations at the lodge.