I want to hear more than just the classics! Hidden gems of winter songs
When winter comes, we sometimes feel a little lonely, while other times our hearts leap at festive events and dazzling cityscapes.
In moments like these, winter songs gently stay by our side.
There are so many of them, and while the classic hits are beloved for years, many of you may be thinking, “I want to discover something different!”
So in this article, we’ll introduce some hidden gems among winter songs.
There are plenty of wonderful tracks beyond the usual standards, so take your time and enjoy them as your companions this winter.
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[Beyond the Classics] Hidden Gems of Winter Songs (1–10)
HEART SNOW ~The Snow That Falls on the Heart~GLAY
A song that gently wraps winter’s loneliness, layering the softly falling snow upon the heart.
It’s included on GLAY’s single “Precious,” released in September 2010.
TERU’s clear, translucent vocals and the tender, comforting melody leave a strong impression.
The lyrics, which sing of deep love and gratitude for a partner, carry a message that reminds us of the precious bonds we tend to lose sight of in our busy daily lives.
It’s the kind of song you’ll want to listen to on a quiet winter night while thinking of someone special.
Winter MorningRyokushokushakai
Here’s a recommendation for those who struggle to find favorite songs because there are so many tied to winter.
“Fuyu no Asa” is a warm track with lyrics like a diary written on a cold winter day.
It’s included on SINGALONG, released in 2020 by the four-piece rock band Ryokuoushoku Shakai, and was written by vocalist Haruko Nagaya during her college years.
The acoustic sound that gently embraces loneliness makes you want to listen while relaxing alone.
It’s a winter song that quietly supports you when you want to calm down or when you feel the chill.
SpecialKobayashi Tōya
Kobayashi Shuya’s winter song resonates with its warm, emotional vocals, timelessly catchy melodies, and lyrics that feel close to the listener’s heart.
The words, which seem to sing about those unexpected happy moments that appear in otherwise ordinary days, gently warm the soul.
Alongside cozy items like the kotatsu, soup, and cocoa, the song is filled with small, relatable joys that create a rich, comforting atmosphere.
It’s also a perfect track for those chilly winter mornings when you don’t want to crawl out from under the covers.
I want more than just the classics! Hidden winter song gems (11–20)
First snowAYANE
A winter song that weaves a new love story beginning with the season’s arrival, in delicate, beautiful words.
AYANE’s translucent vocals settle quietly on the heart like the first snowfall.
Released in November 2022, it captivated many listeners, reaching No.
1 on real-time charts.
Included on the album “#Twenty,” it lets you savor her musical world where existing tracks and new songs intertwine.
Perfect for moments when you want to feel your heart warmed by love even as you’re wrapped in winter’s chill.
Recommended for those who want to taste the sweet tang of first love or sort out their feelings amid the hush of winter.
overwinteringLucky Kilimanjaro
A song filled with warmth that won’t lose to the winter cold.
Lucky Kilimanjaro’s gentle vocals resonate in the heart.
Through the scars left by a ring and the city’s scenery, you can feel a strong will to get through winter.
It was released in November 2022 as the B-side to the single “Hitosuji Sasu.” The track was also used in URBAN RESEARCH’s holiday campaign commercial, matching perfectly with the cozy visuals.
Recommended for those who feel lonely in the cold season or want to look back on memories with someone special.
It’s a heartwarming song you’ll want to listen to on a calm winter night.
milk coffeeSHISHAMO
SHISHAMO is a rock band that has gained popularity for lyrics that vividly paint scenes and for a distinctive three-piece sound that’s simple yet solid at its core.
“Milk Coffee,” included on their first digital-only EP, Boots wo Narashite, features a stylish blend of delicate yet tight ensemble work.
Its sentimental lyrics, which evoke memories of seasons spent with a lover, combine with the winter atmosphere to stir a sense of nostalgia.
A hidden gem among winter songs, the track is memorable for the wistfulness that permeates it.
Wonderful DayTwice
If you’re looking to be soothed by gentle vocals, “Wonderful Day” is perfect for you.
It’s a track sung by the multinational girl group TWICE.
When it comes to their winter songs, many people probably think of “Doughnut,” and this song is actually the second track on that CD.
Like “Doughnut,” it isn’t a dance number, but it features a Christmas-style pop melody and lyrics.
