As winter approaches, many people talk about their favorite seasonal songs. They are almost always related to Christmas, though, which makes it hard for people who don’t celebrate the holiday to participate in winter cheer. Sure, there are songs like “Walking in a Winter Wonderland” by Bing Crosby or “Baby it’s Cold Outside” by Dean Martin, but these ‘classics’ often feel dated.
This playlist has more modern winter songs that anyone can listen to, leaning more into indie and rock sounds. All of the songs are bops and I truly think you should listen to them.
White Winter Hymnal – Fleet Foxes
“White Winter Hymnal” has a very upbeat sound with beautiful vocal melodies. The song perfectly captures the feeling of the sun after days of snow. If the original version isn’t quite your speed, there are also many covers, including by the acapella band Pentatonix.
Sweater Weather – The Neighborhood
With its alternative and full sound, it’s a somewhat chaotic song. It makes you want to bop your head. Listening to it makes you feel like the main character in a teen coming-of-age movie.
I’ve Got My Love To Keep Me Warm – Ingrid Michaelson
“I’ve Got My Love To Keep Me Warm” is a joyful winter love song. The song makes you smile while listening to it, and is ideal for bicycle rides or picnic dates with a significant other.
January Hymn – The Decemberists
Colin Meloy’s voice in “January Hymn” is clear and pairs well with the guitar in the background. The lyrics are about being stranded in the snow and looking back on his youth, invoking a feeling of nostalgia.
In A Week – Hozier, Karen Cowley
Hozier always has a way to portray gruesome imagery in beautiful poetic lines. His gravelly voice coupled with Cowley’s sweet one makes this song so comforting.
Winter Winds – Mumford & Sons
“Winter Winds” has such a full sound. The lyrics are melancholy but inspiring, and the song makes you want to jump, twirl, stomp, sway, and dance the night away. It’s the perfect winter anthem.
Cold Cold Cold – Cage the Elephant
With a rock sound that contrasts with the other songs on the playlist, this lively tune is perfect for a one-person dance party. Blast it in your room or in your headphones on a walk, and you’ll find your head bopping along without even realizing.
Winter Wooskie – Belle & Sebastian
With an upbeat yet serene vibe, “Winter Wooskie” is about falling in love with a stranger in the snow. Stuart Murdoch’s soothing vocals lull you into a sense of security, making it the kind of song you listen to while laying on the floor of your room.
Lazy Snow – Down Like Silver
“Lazy Snow” is a calming and gentle tune, and has the vibe of a Christmas song without any reference to religion. It’s a great song for watching the snow fall with a cup of tea and makes you feel like you’re living in a snowglobe.
Winter Sweater – Titus Haug
Haug has such a clear and calm voice. Couple that with the warm guitar and you get a song that feels like wearing a winter sweater.
Here is the link to the Spotify playlist: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/3SHvbLu0x8rche39tnPY56?si=a9VjYgqWQV-dKxnEb3OT8Q
