Jazz to Enjoy in Winter: Not Just Christmas Songs—Timeless Classics and Performances [2025]

“Homecoming” Jingle BellsDave Brubeck

“Homecoming” Jingle Bells

Jingle Bells, written and composed by James Lord Pierpont in 1857.

Is there anyone who doesn’t know this song? Since Jingle Bells is always played around town during the Christmas season, I think it’s a very familiar tune.

It’s also often assigned as a school song, so it might be fun to try singing it.

In a Sentimental MoodDexter Gordon

In a Sentimental Mood

Here is a jazz standard composed in 1935 by the master Duke Ellington.

It’s said to be a piece that expresses his feelings after his mother passed away.

Lyrics were later added, and it became beloved by vocalists as well.

The lyrics depict scenes like seeing stars from a room’s window, making it a perfect song for the Christmas season, when we imagine stars, and for the winter months when the stars are especially beautiful.

Why not listen to it while gazing at the stars from the warmth of your room?

Makin’ WhoopeeDr. John · Rickie Lee Jones

Makin’ Whoopee! (with Rickie Lee Jones)

A number that portrays a mature love affair, woven with a husky vocal and a gently soothing melody.

The sardonic lyrics and jazzy sound match exquisitely, drawing you in before you know it.

Released in 1989, this song is a celebrated duet that even won a Grammy.

It was also featured in the film The Fabulous Baker Boys, capturing the hearts of many.

Highly recommended for those who want to savor the subtleties of romance, it’s a track you’ll want to relax with on long winter nights.

Cheek To CheekElla Fitzgerald & Louis Armstrong

Ella Fitzgerald, Louis Armstrong – Cheek To Cheek (Official Video)

The classic song “Cheek to Cheek” by Ella Fitzgerald, the queen of female jazz vocalists, and Louis Armstrong, affectionately known as Satchmo.

Originally a musical number, it became globally famous thanks to their performance.

While it isn’t specifically a winter-themed song, its warm melody blends a strong jazz flavor with a pop sensibility.

The tempo is relatively slow, making it a great recommendation for those who enjoy slow jazz.

My Foolish HeartEthel Ennis

Ethel Ennis – My Foolish Heart

This jazz standard, known in Japanese as “Orokanari Waga Kokoro” (“Foolish Is My Heart”), was written as the theme song for an American romantic film released in 1949.

Around Christmastime, many people may find themselves flustered and falling in love without being sure whether it’s the real thing.

This song captures that very situation.

With its moody melody, you might just fall in love simply by listening to it together with someone—so be careful!

You’d Be So Nice To Come Home ToHelen Merrill

Helen Merrill with Clifford Brown / You’d Be So Nice To Come Home To

Here’s a song composed by the master Cole Porter as an insert song for a film released in 1942.

It’s a quintessential winter song about how wonderful it would be if you were waiting for me in front of the fireplace on a cold winter’s day.

It’s a popular jazz standard performed by many artists.

In Japan, the version sung by Helen Merrill was even used in a commercial, wasn’t it? It’s the kind of song you can’t help humming on your way home from work to a warm house where someone is waiting for you.

Treize jours en FranceJoe Hisaishi

Treize Jours en France

A gem of an orchestral arrangement by Joe Hisaishi that evokes a landscape wrapped in the stillness of winter.

He adorns Francis Lai’s classic composition with both grandeur and delicacy, vividly portraying human drama amid snowy scenery.

Included on the November 2005 album “American in Paris,” this piece fully showcases Hisaishi’s signature fusion of classical and film music.

It’s a track you’ll want to savor on a long winter’s night.

Its nostalgic, melodious atmosphere conjures images of the Grenoble Winter Olympics, adding to its charm.

Perfect for those moments when you want to relax and let the music carry you.