As the glacial landscape takes over and the temperature drops, there’s nothing quite like settling down with a hot drink and some festive jams. Although some may argue that Christmas songs have been played one too many times, there’s one sub-genre that never grows old – songs about snow.
Whether you’re dreaming of a white Christmas or feeling the chill of winter in your bones, these songs have the power to transport you to a frostier, more magical world.
So grab a blanket and let the cold winds blow, because we’re about to take a journey through the snowy soundscapes of some of the most classic tunes around.
“Let it Snow! Let it Snow! Let it Snow!” – Dean Martin
As we dive into a mélange of tunes about winter’s most formidable weather occurrence, the smooth stylings of Dean Martin’s “Let it Snow! Let it Snow! Let it Snow!” offers a delightful reprieve. Martin’s vocals, velvety and dynamic, extol the joys of coziness, setting an alluring atmosphere as undulating strings create a marvelous, snow-falling ambiance.
This classic tune captures the essence of the winter season, specifically the allure of an indulgent snow day spent bundling up with loved ones.
“Winter Wonderland” – Felix Bernard
This wintry song, an ode to the magic of snowfall, captures the feeling of a snowy wonderland with its imaginative lyrics and playful melody. With its upbeat tempo and whimsical instrumentation, the song paints a picture of snow-covered fields and twinkling lights, evoking a sense of nostalgia and joy.
Whether curled up by the fire or frolicking in the snow, this song is the perfect accompaniment to any winter day.
“Jingle Bells” – James Lord Pierpont
James Lord Pierpont’s holiday classic, a tune we all know by heart, captures the magic of winter with its lively melody and catchy lyrics. With its cheerful tone, Jingle Bells summons images of a winter wonderland, a reminder of the joy and merriment that accompanies the white blanket of snow that falls from the sky.
This festive tune is perfect for gatherings around the fireplace or long rides in the car, filling the air with warmth, excitement, and holiday spirit that makes this time of year so special.
“Sleigh Ride” – Leroy Anderson
Leroy Anderson’s “Sleigh Ride” is an enchanting orchestral masterpiece that transports listeners on a magical journey through the snowy winter countryside. The galloping rhythm mimics the sound of hooves rushing through fresh snow, while the sweeping strings and playful woodwinds evoke images of snowmen, sleigh rides, and twinkling lights.
The song’s catchy melody and vibrant dynamics make it a timeless classic that captures the joy and wonder of the holiday season.
“Frosty the Snowman” – Steve Nelson and Walter E. Rollins
The eponymous character of “Frosty the Snowman” is a beloved wintertime figure celebrated in song and folklore. With his corncob pipe and button nose, Frosty comes to life in this whimsical tune written by Steve Nelson and Walter E. Rollins. The song’s upbeat melody and charming lyrics recount the adventures of Frosty and his companions as they frolic through the snow-filled landscape.
The enduring popularity of “Frosty the Snowman” has made it a perennial classic of the holiday season, earning a place on many a winter playlist.
“White Christmas” – Irving Berlin
Irving Berlin’s unforgettable holiday classic offers a nostalgic look back to a simpler time when snow was a common sight during the Yuletide season. It’s a wistful tune that conjures memories of yesteryear and makes us all dream of a white Christmas no matter where we may find ourselves on December 25th.
Berlin’s lyrical prowess and the song’s timeless melody ensure that it will remain a fixture on holiday playlists for generations to come.
“Do You Want to Build a Snowman?” – Kristen Bell, Agatha Lee Monn, and Katie Lopez
This track from the popular Disney film Frozen is a serene and nostalgic number that’ll have you thinking about your childhood snow days. The delicate piano and gentle melody set a mood of soft snowflakes falling outside while you build a snowman or cozy up with a hot cup of cocoa.
The tender lyrics of the song reflect the bond between two sisters and their love for each other despite challenges. The melodious harmony and tender vocal performance create a wistful and heartwarming feeling perfect for a snowy evening indoors.
“It’s Beginning to Look a Lot Like Christmas” – Meredith Willson
This particular tune, a classic penned by the talented Meredith Willson, has become a quintessential track for any wintry occasion. Its iconic melody, coupled with Willson’s rich lyrics, evoke the image of a snow-covered wonderland, complete with flickering streetlights and the frosty snap of crisp winter air. A true masterpiece that has stood the test of time, it’s no wonder that this perennial hit continues to resonate with listeners of all ages and backgrounds.
From festive holiday gatherings to quiet snow-globe scenes, “It’s Beginning to Look a Lot Like Christmas” is a must-have addition to any winter playlist.
“Walking in a Winter Wonderland” – Felix Bernard
“Walking in a Winter Wonderland” gently ushers the listener through the whimsy of a snowy landscape. Bernard’s lyrics illustrate a picturesque wonderland, filled with snowmen, sleigh bells and a couple enjoying the winter majesty.
The song’s melody pulls the listener in with a soft opening of chimes, before building to a grand chorus. Its jovial tone and evocative imagery provide a feeling of enchantment, making it a perfect addition to any playlist celebrating the magic of snow.
“All I Want for Christmas Is You” – Mariah Carey
Mariah Carey’s “All I Want for Christmas Is You” is a holiday classic that evokes images of snow and romance. The song’s infectious melody and Carey’s soulful vocals capture the joy and excitement of the season, while its lyrics express a yearning for love and companionship amidst the cold of winter.
With its timeless appeal and irresistible charm, “All I Want for Christmas Is You” is a perfect addition to any winter playlist, and a reminder of the magic that can be found in the most mundane of settings.
“Baby, It’s Cold Outside” – Frank Loesser
This particular tune is an odd duck among its peers. While many other snow-themed songs focus on the wondrous and magical aspects of the season, this one is more…uncertain. It tells the story of two people debating whether or not one of them should leave the other’s home amidst a snowstorm that seems to be getting worse by the minute.
The lyrics are brimming with a sense of tension, with lines like “I really can’t stay…but baby, it’s cold outside” and “Say, what’s in this drink?” raising more questions than they answer. It’s not your typical snow song, but that’s what makes it stand out.
“Silver Bells” – Jay Livingston and Ray Evans
“Silver Bells” is a classic Christmas song that evokes the festive cheer of the holiday season. Written by Jay Livingston and Ray Evans, the song is a cheerful melody of jingling bells and bustling crowds. Although the song does not specifically focus on snow, it is often played during the winter season, as it captures the spirit of the holidays and the joy of being surrounded by the people you love.
The upbeat tempo and cheerful lyrics make “Silver Bells” a timeless classic that is sure to evoke feelings of warmth and nostalgia.
“Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer” – Johnny Marks
If you’re looking for tunes about the cold season, then you have to include this classic gem. It tells the story of Rudolph, the reindeer with the shiny red nose, and how he overcomes his differences to help guide Santa’s sleigh through a snowstorm.
With catchy lyrics that will have you humming along in no time, this ditty is sure to get anyone in the holiday spirit, no matter how frosty the weather gets.
“The Christmas Song” – Mel Tormé and Robert Wells
“The Christmas Song” by Mel Tormé and Robert Wells is a classic winter tune that is perfect for this snow-filled season. With its soothing melody and soulful vocals, it captures the warmth and joy of the festive season while conjuring up images of fluffy snowflakes falling from the sky.
Its lyrics paint a vivid picture of roasting chestnuts by an open fire and snuggling up with loved ones – all things that we yearn for in the chilly winter months. It’s a timeless classic that continues to enchant new generations of listeners with its wintery charm.”
“Wonderful Christmastime” – Paul McCartney
The catchy and upbeat sound of “Wonderful Christmastime” by Paul McCartney might make you shake off the snowflakes from your clothes and start dancing. Even though the song’s lyrics do not directly reference snow, McCartney’s prominent use of electronic chimes and bells in the background creates a wintry and cheerful ambiance.
The lyrics “The choir of children sing their song/ They’ve practiced all year long” might also make you think of children playing in the snow and singing Christmas carols. Overall, this classic holiday tune beautifully embodies the excitement and joy of the winter season.
“Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree” – Brenda Lee
“Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree” evokes both a sense of festive joy and a winter wonderland. With its upbeat, lively rhythm and Brenda Lee’s vibrant voice leading the way, this classic track is the perfect addition to any winter playlist.
As you revel in the chilling winds and the snow’s gentle mist, allow this iconic tune to fill you with a sense of nostalgia and the warmth of the holiday season. Get ready to rock around the Christmas tree as you soak in the magical ambiance of winter’s embrace.
“I’ll Be Home for Christmas” – Kim Gannon, Walter Kent, and Buck Ram
This sweet and soulful tune evokes the longing for home and warmth during the cold winter season. With a wistful melody and tender lyricism, the song captures the feelings of homesickness and yearning for family and loved ones that often arise during the holiday season.
The lilting rhythm and beautiful harmonies create a sense of nostalgia and bittersweetness that will resonate with anyone who has ever been far away from home in the winter months.
“Happy Xmas (War Is Over)” – John Lennon and Yoko Ono
Okay, let me give it a try! A Christmas classic that’s all about the festive feels and heartwarming emotions, Happy Xmas (War Is Over) is a song that’s perfect to listen to while cuddled up under some blankets and watching the snow fall outside your window.
With its catchy melody and inspiring lyrics, this hit by John Lennon and Yoko Ono is sure to leave you feeling uplifted and full of love, no matter how chilly the weather gets. So if you’re looking for a song that captures the spirit of the season, you can’t go wrong with this one!
“Little Drummer Boy” – Katherine Kennicott Davis
This next tune is a holiday classic about a little boy playing his drum for the baby Jesus. It’s got a beautiful melody and some really cool drumming parts that might just get you feeling the rhythm. Plus, the lyrics are super heartwarming and really capture the spirit of Christmas. You might’ve heard this one before, but it never gets old – it’s a total snow day mood.
“Carol of the Bells” – Mykola Leontovych
The twentieth song on this list is an enchanting melody that evokes feelings of winter magic. Its soaring harmonies and intricate arrangement are sure to leave you captivated. With its haunting choral refrains and delicate piano flourishes, this composition is an apt tribute to the season’s natural wonders.
Whether you’re curled up by the fire or out in the snow itself, this song is the perfect accompaniment to your winter daydreams. Its intricate counterpoint and elaborate rhythmic patterns will keep you intrigued from beginning to end.
