RAG MusicWinter-Songs
Lovely winter song

[2026] A Special Feature on Classic Western Songs to Listen to in December!

Speaking of December events, Christmas is the standout, and around this time you hear more classic Christmas songs—both Western and Japanese—everywhere.

That said, it’s not just Christmas songs; there are actually many great tracks associated with December.

In this article, I’ve researched and compiled not only staple Christmas songs, but also timeless Western tracks you’ll definitely want to listen to in December.

How many December songs do you know? I’d be delighted if any of the songs introduced here end up on your December playlist!

[2026] A Special Feature on Classic Western Songs to Listen to in December! (71–80)

Viva La VidaColdplay

Coldplay – Viva La Vida (Official Video)
Viva La VidaColdplay

A signature Coldplay song distinguished by grand strings and a rhythmic piano.

The lyrics portray the downfall of a once all-powerful king, evoking images of revolution and political rebellion.

Included on the album “Viva La Vida or Death and All His Friends,” released in May 2008, it became a worldwide hit.

The piece is said to be inspired by the French Revolution and the final days of Louis XVI.

Its sweeping sound and wistful melody resonate even more deeply in the cold season.

It’s perfect for quiet winter nights, when you’re lost in thought.

A Long DecemberCounting Crows

Counting Crows – A Long December (Official Video)
A Long DecemberCounting Crows

Among winter songs, the soothing, rock-tinged “A Long December” stands out.

It’s a mid-tempo number by Counting Crows, a rock band formed in San Francisco.

The track was included on their second album, Recovering the Satellites (1996), which cemented their status as a leading American rock band.

It’s said that Adam Duritz, the band’s pianist and vocalist, wrote the song after visiting a friend who was hospitalized at the time.

The piano-led, unhurried rhythm feels comforting.

You can sense a message about getting through a long December and spending time together, laughing.

It’s the kind of song that can lift you during a tough holiday season or when you want to encourage someone special.

Adam Duritz’s gentle vocals slowly sink in and warm the heart.

Let It GoDemi Lovato

Demi Lovato – Let It Go (from “Frozen”) (Official Video)
Let It GoDemi Lovato

A song marked by Demi Lovato’s powerful vocals.

Its lyrics explore themes of self-acceptance and liberation, inspiring courage in listeners.

Released in 2013 as the theme song for Disney’s film Frozen, it resonated with audiences worldwide.

It won both an Academy Award and a Grammy, and became so popular it was sung in 25 languages.

With a warmth and strength that seem to wrap around winter’s chill, it’s perfect for the Christmas season.

A must-listen for anyone who wants to live authentically.

Remember DecemberDemi Lovato

Demi Lovato is an artist active as an actor and an idol.

She has released songs in various styles, but the ones that are especially popular are those centered on powerful melodies.

Remember December showcases her strength to the fullest, with lyrics that depict heartbreak.

Among works themed around December and winter, it’s particularly powerful—be sure to check it out.

8 Days of ChristmasDestiny’s Child

Destiny’s Child – 8 Days of Christmas (Live Version)
8 Days of ChristmasDestiny's Child

A captivating holiday song by Destiny’s Child that adds a touch of glamour to the Christmas season.

This piece is a modern arrangement of The Twelve Days of Christmas, singing about eight days of gifts from a lover.

Its smooth R&B groove and the group’s signature harmonies enhance the track’s charm.

It was included on the album 8 Days of Christmas, released in October 2001, and issued as a single that December.

Perfect for anyone who wants to fully enjoy the Christmas spirit or for a special evening spent with someone important—be sure to give it a listen.

This ChristmasDonny Hathaway

Donny Hathaway – This Christmas (Official Audio)
This ChristmasDonny Hathaway

New soul, the genre said to have laid the foundation for today’s R&B.

This Christmas is sung by Donny Hathaway, regarded as one of the “Big Four” of new soul.

Although the song was released in 1972, it’s still played as radio and background music in many countries every Christmas.

While it’s not that well known in Japan, it’s extremely famous overseas.

His soul music, created from his classical background, has a uniquely distinctive feel—be sure to check it out!

Santa BabyEartha Kitt

Eartha Kitt – Santa Baby (Official Audio)
Santa BabyEartha Kitt

Not only as an artist but also as an actress and cabaret performer, Eartha Kitt was active in many fields.

Released in 1953, the song became a major hit worldwide.

However, its lyrics were considered too suggestive for children and were controversial for a time.

As such regulations eased, Madonna covered the song in 1987, bringing it to the attention of various generations.

It has also been covered by Ariana Grande and Taylor Swift, so many of you may find it familiar.