2025 Edition: Recommended Western songs for winter drives — the latest tracks and timeless hits

A Hazy Shade of WinterSimon&Garfunkel

Simon & Garfunkel – A Hazy Shade of Winter (Audio)

When it comes to Western songs for winter, we can’t help but pick this one.

Released by Simon & Garfunkel in 1966, “A Hazy Shade of Winter”—also well known in Japan by its translated title “Fuyu no Sanpomichi” (Winter’s Promenade)—is a track many still remember as an insert song from the impactful 1994 TV drama “Ningen Shikkaku: Tatoeba Boku ga Shindara.” Among Simon & Garfunkel’s songs characterized by their folky sound and beautiful harmonies, this one is perhaps the most folk-rock in style, with a driving, fast-paced beat that feels more suited to a car ride than a leisurely stroll.

In fact, the English title and the Japanese title don’t mean the same thing, and the lyrics poetically liken life to the four seasons: the bleak winter scenery and the anxious state of mind it evokes are anything but leisurely; there’s even a sense of mounting urgency that presses in on you.

So if you’re going to hit the road with this song on, be careful not to brood too much while you drive!

Moth To A FlameSwedish House Mafia and The Weeknd

Swedish House Mafia and The Weeknd – Moth To A Flame (Official Video)

This is a masterpiece where a melodious synth-pop sound—cool and slightly frosty in texture, quintessentially Scandinavian—blends perfectly with The Weeknd’s one-of-a-kind, beautiful voice to create stunning synergy! In 2021, Swedish House Mafia, the Swedish house unit that returned with new music after a long break, released “Moth To A Flame” in October of the same year, a collaboration with globally celebrated R&B singer-songwriter The Weeknd.

His vocal performance, which delivers lyrics ripe for deeper interpretation and a bit different from a straightforward love song, carries a certain melancholy, and the production—restrained electronic tones that seem to float—can only be described as masterful.

Flashy EDM has its charm, but this kind of sound is absolutely perfect as BGM for winter drives.

Cruising aimlessly down the highway on a winter night with this track playing would be the best!

Back to DecemberTaylor Swift

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.

Snow on the Beach (ft. Lana del Rey)Taylor Swift

Taylor Swift – Snow On The Beach (Lyric Video) ft. Lana Del Rey

One of the real joys of driving is taking in dreamlike scenery like night views and sunsets.

A song that can further enhance that ethereal atmosphere is “Snow on the Beach (ft.

Lana Del Rey).” It’s performed by Taylor Swift and Lana Del Rey.

The song leans strongly into Lana Del Rey’s aesthetic, and its lyrics are bittersweet, depicting someone walking along a snowy beach while thinking of a loved one they’ve lost.

Oh CarolineThe 1975

The 1975 – Oh Caroline (Official Live Performance) | Vevo

The 1975 are a British rock band.

Their appearance at Summer Sonic in 2022, where they even headlined, is still fresh in our memories.

Their song “Oh Caroline” is a track distinguished by its mellow sound.

While the song is quiet overall, the bouncy bass adds a sense of dynamism.

Because of that, it suits both relaxing moments and energetic drives.

Plus, with the same lyrics repeating multiple times, it’s perfect for those who want to hum along as they listen.

The Time (Dirty Bit)The Black Eyed Peas

The Black Eyed Peas – The Time (Dirty Bit)

Even on a freezing cold day, this track is guaranteed to raise your body temperature.

With an EDM vibe, anyone can instantly become a party animal.

It brings a club atmosphere right into your car and is sure to be a must-repeat number.

Play this song and your friends will probably think you’ve got refined taste.

DriveThe Cars

The Cars – Drive (Official Music Video)

Both the band name and the song title make it feel like this track was made for driving.

The Cars, who produced many hits in the 1980s with their cutting-edge new wave sound, released their monumental classic “Drive” in 1984, and it became a massive hit.

The late Benjamin Orr, the bassist and vocalist who sadly passed away in 2000, took the lead vocals; his poised, captivating voice exudes masculine allure and melancholy.

It’s a gem of a ballad that also showcases the exceptional songwriting talent of the band’s frontman, Ric Ocasek, who handled the lyrics and composition.

Though both Benjamin and Ric have now left this world, I hope you’ll enjoy a winter drive while listening to this timeless masterpiece that will never fade.