Western Music Winter Song Rankings [2025]

Back to DecemberTaylor Swift1rank/position

Taylor Swift – Back To December

If you’re looking to make the most of the season by playing winter songs on a drive, I recommend “Back to December”! It’s included on Taylor Swift’s massively successful 2010 album Speak Now.

A global singer-songwriter whose down-to-earth lyrics resonate widely, Swift lays bare the feelings of a narrator who regrets breaking up with a lover, making this a quintessential Taylor-style ballad.

It’s said to be about her brief relationship with actor Taylor Lautner, and even while knowing they can’t go back, she tenderly sings about the happy memories and the aching wish to return to that December when they said goodbye and start over.

If you’ve had a similar experience, you’ll surely relate.

It’s the perfect song to play when you’re driving alone, looking back on bittersweet memories.

All I Want for Christmas Is YouMariah Carey2rank/position

Mariah Carey – All I Want for Christmas Is You (Make My Wish Come True Edition)

When it comes to classic winter songs, Mariah Carey’s “All I Want for Christmas Is You” tops the list.

Since its 1994 release, this timeless masterpiece has continued to capture hearts with each passing year.

Its lyrics, portraying the sweet desires of lovers, and its warm, sugary melody seem to reflect the whirlwind romance of winter.

Add that catchy tune to moments spent with friends, family, and loved ones, and your winter nights are sure to feel even more festive.

Just as this song shines brighter with each era, why not let it add a touch of color to your own winter?

Something Just Like ThisThe Chainsmokers & Coldplay3rank/position

The Chainsmokers & Coldplay – Something Just Like This (Official Lyric Video)

A 2017 collaboration between a hit-making American EDM duo and a hugely popular British rock band.

Hailed around the world as “the ultimate combination,” the song continues to resonate with people who have dreams and aspirations, capturing their hearts.

Last ChristmasWham!4rank/position

Wham! – Last Christmas (Official Video)

The song “Last Christmas” is hugely popular in Japan as well.

It’s one you’re sure to hear at least once every winter.

It was performed by the British duo Wham! and released in 1984.

It’s often taken to mean “the final Christmas,” but the correct interpretation is “last year’s Christmas.” As the title suggests, it’s a winter-themed piece and has become a classic Christmas song covered by many artists.

It might be fun to compare the covers with the original.

So SickNe-Yo5rank/position

Ne-Yo – So Sick (Official Music Video)

Ne-Yo’s classic song “So Sick.” Released in 2006, it became a worldwide hit.

You could even say it’s one of his signature tracks.

While it’s not explicitly themed around winter, as you can see from the music video, it’s crafted to evoke images of winter, snow, and cold.

The melody is classic R&B, letting you savor that quality 2000s R&B sound.

Since the gap between the melody and the lyrics isn’t that wide, if you’re heartbroken and spending Christmas alone, definitely give it a listen!

MistletoeJustin Bieber6rank/position

Justin Bieber – Mistletoe (Official Music Video)

When it comes to Christmas songs perfect for a snowy night, you can’t leave this one out.

Justin Bieber’s warm vocals and the soothing sound of the acoustic guitar gently accompany the quiet of a winter night.

The lyrics convey a heartfelt sentiment about spending special moments with a loved one, resonating softly with listeners.

Released in December 2011, the song was included on Bieber’s first Christmas album, Under the Mistletoe.

It became a global hit, reaching No.

6 on the Billboard chart.

It’s the perfect track to enjoy on a calm, snowy night with your partner or family, creating a cozy, heartwarming time together.

Winter ThingsAriana Grande7rank/position

Ariana Grande – Winter Things (Official Audio)

Speaking of Christmas songs, Frank Sinatra released a string of timeless classics, didn’t he? After him, it became quite rare for a single artist to rack up multiple hits with Christmas songs, but Ariana Grande has scored hits with several of them.

One of those is “Winter Things.” Featuring a relaxed, ukulele-driven melody, its lyrics portray a calm, tender romance that perfectly matches the song’s gentle vibe.