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

WinterThe Rolling Stones

The Rolling Stones Winter

Speaking of winter songs by The Rolling Stones, it has to be the aptly titled “Winter.” The vocalist’s dry tone is wonderful, and the track has a very bluesy finish.

This mid-period Stones is also their prime, so if you like it, be sure to check out their other songs as well.

Sleigh RideThe Ronettes

The Ronettes – Sleigh Ride (Lyrics)

This is “Sleigh Ride” by The Ronettes, who scored a massive hit in the ’60s with “Be My Baby.” While the song is best known in its orchestral version, the Ronettes’ rendition features occasional rock-style arrangements, and they sing it with a wonderfully fun, festive vibe.

Leave a Light OnTom Walker

Tom Walker – Leave a Light On (Official Video)

This is a track from the album released on March 1, 2019 by Scottish singer-songwriter Tom Walker.

With a powerful voice, it delivers the message: even at rock bottom, don’t give up amid life’s loneliness and setbacks.

The wistful tones in the backing track make it a number that lets you feel the chill of December.

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Hoshino Takashi

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Alone in DecemberUnderoath

UnderOath-“Alone In December”

Underøath is a Christian metalcore to post-hardcore band formed in 1998 and one of the defining acts of the 2000s screamo boom.

Many musicians in Japan’s metalcore scene openly cite them as an influence.

Although they once disbanded, they reunited and have continued to release new music.

Before their major breakthrough—back when their early vocalist was still in the lineup—they released the 2002 album The Changing of Times, from which I’d like to highlight “Alone in December,” a track that captivates with a grand, distinctive sound that steps beyond purely emotive new-school hardcore.

On the surface, it can be read as a heartbreak song set in winter, but the lyrics, steeped in their faith, evoke a certain sacred atmosphere.

If you’re a younger listener curious about early-2000s emotive new-school hardcore, be sure to check it out!

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KOH-1

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Last ChristmasWham!

Wham! – Last Christmas (Official Video)

Last Christmas, the hit song by the British idol vocal group Wham!, was a smash not only worldwide but especially in Japan.

If you live in Japan, you’ve probably heard it at least once.

It sold one million copies in Japan and topped the country’s international music chart for 30 weeks.

It has also won major awards, including Best British Video at the BRIT Awards, one of the UK’s most prestigious music honors.

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Ryo

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I Wish It Could Be Christmas EverydayWizzard

Wizzard – I Wish It Could Be Christmas Everyday

Wizzard was a band formed by Roy Wood at the height of the glam rock era.

This song straightforwardly expresses the feeling of “I wish it could be Christmas every day.” In the music video, the members dress up as glitzy, flashy Santas and put on a fun performance together with children.

Merry Christmas EverybodySlade

Slade – Merry Xmas Everybody (Official Top Of The Pops Video)

Slade, a band that thrived during the heyday of glam rock.

They’re a British band.

Their Christmas song even made appearances on the charts at the time.

The sight of the members, dressed in flashy outfits befitting glam rockers, joining the audience and singing “It’s Christmas!” is absolutely charming.