Western Music Winter Songs Ranking [2026]

Boo’d UpElla Mai15rank/position

Ella Mai – Boo’d Up

Ella Mai is a UK-born R&B singer who has attracted attention worldwide.

While modern in style, she doesn’t lean into dance music; instead, she steadfastly sticks to R&B, making her a rare type of artist in today’s English-speaking music scene.

The song she performs, “Boo’d Up,” released in 2018, became a major hit thanks to its refined sensibility.

For this achievement, it won the Grammy Award for Best R&B Song.

It’s crafted with a cool sound that’s perfect for a winter night drive.

expand_lessRaise the rankingexpand_morelower

Ryo

Report a problem

Santa Tell MeAriana Grande16rank/position

Ariana Grande – Santa Tell Me (Official Video)

Ariana Grande’s classic Christmas-themed song, “Santa Tell Me,” enjoys worldwide popularity.

It features a very poppy, catchy melody, and its vibe is somewhat reminiscent of Mariah Carey’s “All I Want for Christmas Is You.” Since Ariana Grande debuted with the tagline of being a ‘second Mariah,’ she may well have been consciously inspired by her.

expand_lessRaise the rankingexpand_morelower

Ryo

Report a problem

I’m With YouAvril Lavigne17rank/position

Avril Lavigne – I’m With You (Official Video)

The third single from the debut album Let Go, released in 2002, is a ballad that poignantly captures the feelings of a girl wandering through the city on a lonely night.

Centered on themes of isolation and a desperate longing to connect with someone, it resonates deeply with those who still feel uneasy and alone even as the new year begins.

Avril Lavigne, who was 17 at the time, delivers delicate emotions with her clear, expressive voice.

The song was highly acclaimed, earning two nominations at the 2004 Grammy Awards and reaching No.

4 on the Billboard Hot 100.

It’s a classic that reminds you of the comfort of having someone by your side when you feel lonely in the winter cold.

yes, and?Ariana Grande18rank/position

Ariana Grande – yes, and? (official music video)

Released in January 2024, “Yes, and?” is a track that emerged after about three years as the lead single from the album Eternal Sunshine.

Heavily influenced by Madonna’s “Vogue,” its ‘80s-style house sound is pleasing to the ear, delivering a danceable groove that also carries a profound message.

Powerfully asserting the importance of living true to yourself without being swayed by others’ criticism or judgments, this song is one that gives you a push forward—especially when winter’s chill starts to get you down.

A remix version featuring Mariah Carey was also released and debuted at No.

1 on the Billboard Global 200.

It’s highly recommended when you want to boost your self-esteem or lift your spirits.

Soft Spotkeshi19rank/position

keshi – Soft Spot (Official Music Video)

If you’re looking for a heartwarming track perfect for winter drives, you should definitely check out keshi’s music.

This piece features delicate, dreamlike soundscapes and emotional lyrics, marked by minimalism and a sweet, memorable melody.

It blends lo-fi, R&B, and alternative pop, capturing everything that makes keshi so compelling in a single song.

Included on the album “Requiem,” released in September 2024 via Island Records, this track expresses the anxieties and fragility of love—something that will resonate deeply when listened to on the road.

It’s recommended not only for couples seeking a romantic mood, but also for anyone who wants to savor a solitary, contemplative moment.

A Hazy Shade of WinterSimon&Garfunkel20rank/position

Simon & Garfunkel – A Hazy Shade of Winter (Audio)

When it comes to Western songs for winter, we can’t help but pick this one.

Released by Simon & Garfunkel in 1966, “A Hazy Shade of Winter”—also well known in Japan by its translated title “Fuyu no Sanpomichi” (Winter’s Promenade)—is a track many still remember as an insert song from the impactful 1994 TV drama “Ningen Shikkaku: Tatoeba Boku ga Shindara.” Among Simon & Garfunkel’s songs characterized by their folky sound and beautiful harmonies, this one is perhaps the most folk-rock in style, with a driving, fast-paced beat that feels more suited to a car ride than a leisurely stroll.

In fact, the English title and the Japanese title don’t mean the same thing, and the lyrics poetically liken life to the four seasons: the bleak winter scenery and the anxious state of mind it evokes are anything but leisurely; there’s even a sense of mounting urgency that presses in on you.

So if you’re going to hit the road with this song on, be careful not to brood too much while you drive!

expand_lessRaise the rankingexpand_morelower

KOH-1

Report a problem

WintertimeNorah Jones21rank/position

Norah Jones – Wintertime (Audio)

On a winter night sparkling with luminous illuminations, a delightful song that gets the conversation flowing adds an extra touch of color.

Nora Jones, who shines with a singular charm in the world of jazz, brings us “Wintertime,” a warm and comforting track released in 2018.

Jeff Tweedy and his son Spencer contribute, while Nora’s gentle vocals and piano reflect the quiet of winter.

Make this song your companion on a winter evening and enjoy a peaceful moment.