RAG MusicWinter-Songs
Lovely winter song

Western songs to listen to in winter: heart-touching winter songs

When winter comes and the weather turns cold, don’t you find there are certain songs you mysteriously want to listen to?

Love songs, gentle ballads, tracks with a clear, transparent sound that conjure up a magical winter—there are so many…

In this article, I’ll be introducing a wide selection of popular Western winter songs!

From Christmas and snow to December, romance, and peace—we’ve picked out a broad range of tracks across different eras and genres.

I hope you find the one perfect song that feels just right for you.

Now, let’s dive right in and listen to some recommended numbers for the eventful season of winter!

Western songs to listen to in winter: heart-touching winter songs (11–20)

Everyday is ChristmasSia

This is the title track from Australian singer-songwriter Sia’s album Everyday Is Christmas, released in November 2017.

Created as her first Christmas project, the album is said to have been completed in just about two weeks with producer Greg Kurstin.

It’s a poppy, glittering holiday song that celebrates the special days of Christmas, featuring bell-like decorations that evoke the feel of a winter street scene.

Its jazzy chord progressions intertwine with Sia’s distinctive, soaring vocals, instantly lifting you into the Christmas spirit just by listening!

yes, and?Ariana Grande

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

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.

WinterlongNeil Young

This number by Neil Young is known as a song that makes the chill of winter feel comforting.

Although it was created in the 1970s, it remained unreleased and first saw the light of day when it was included in the 1977 collection Decade.

The song is marked by a gentle, warm melody characteristic of Neil Young and lyrics that resonate deeply.

It overlays lost love with the winter season, beautifully expressing longing and loneliness.

Young’s distinctive high tenor further enhances the song’s world.

It’s the kind of track you’ll want to listen to alone, quietly, in a warm room on a cold winter night.

JoyTracey Thorn

Tracey Thorn / ‘Joy’ (Official Video)
JoyTracey Thorn

This is a Tracy Thorn ballad that seeps into the heart along with the winter chill.

Its acoustic sound and gentle, tender vocals seem to wrap the harshness of winter and life’s uncertainty in warmth.

Featured on the Christmas album “Tinsel and Lights,” this piece is more than just a seasonal song—it conveys a powerful sense of finding hope even in difficult times.

Released in December 2012 and also used in the film “All Is Bright,” its charm has not faded with time.

Perfect for those seeking heartwarming music in the cold season or standing at a crossroads in life.

If you lend your ear to Tracy’s voice, you might just find small moments of joy.

It’s Beginning to Look a Lot Like ChristmasMichael Bublé

Michael Bublé – It’s Beginning to Look a Lot Like Christmas (Official Music Video)
It's Beginning to Look a Lot Like ChristmasMichael Bublé

When December arrives, cities are adorned with illuminations and other decorations, and you really feel that winter has truly come, don’t you? A song that you can’t help but want to listen to at such times is Michael Bublé’s “It’s Beginning to Look a Lot Like Christmas.” It’s well known in Japan under the title meaning “It’s starting to feel like Christmas.” The song conveys the feeling of “I can’t wait for Christmas.” Remarkably, it was written back in 1951 by American composer Meredith Willson.

Since then, it has been covered by many artists, including Michael Bublé, Perry Como, and Bing Crosby.

Back to DecemberTaylor Swift

Taylor Swift’s classic “Back to December,” released in 2010.

She has put out many songs, but when it comes to winter staples, this is likely the one many people think of.

She’s known for shifting from country music to pop, but at this point her work still strongly reflected country influences.

By the way, the lyrics portray a woman who breaks up with her boyfriend and then realizes how important he was.

If you’re curious, be sure to check out the Japanese translation as well!

Western songs to listen to in winter: soul-stirring winter songs (21–30)

An ongoing parade of popular winter songs!

From here on, we’ll continue introducing not only popular winter songs but also hidden gems and long-loved tracks. We’ll be showcasing lots of winter tunes, so take your time and give them a listen!

White ChristmasKaty Perry

This is a masterpiece by Katy Perry, whose catchy vocals and pop-savvy sound create an overwhelmingly distinctive style.

She has an image that suits the winter season, and the theme fits snowy days as well, crafting a smooth atmosphere that lifts the mood with a pleasantly polished finish.