Everyone knows that the lead up to Christmas can be so overwhelming, and hearing the constant same Christmas songs blaring in every store doesn’t particularly help. So here is the perfect festive playlist, which aren’t Christmas songs, but instead include tunes that carry the winter aesthetic so you can look back on this busy time of year with some comfort.
Wintering – The 1975
This upbeat, lively melody is the perfect winter song for students especially, or for people who may live far away from their hometown. Matty Healy’s relatable lyrics delve into the feelings of someone arriving back home for the holidays, singing about the expectations of friends they used to know and the familiar routine of spending Christmas with family. The 1975 take a different route from their typical pop and alternative sound in this track, with its storytelling and rustic instrumentation creayting a fantastic festive folk song. If you are one of the listeners who are returning to their hometown for the winter season, this tune should definitely be in your playlist.
Listen here.
Hungry Heart – Bruce Springsteen
Despite the fact this anthem came out in October of 1980, the soft bells and catchy piano melody provide this song with a cosy winter vibe that appeals to all listeners. Springsteen uses his well-loved husky voice to deliver these relatable lyrics, making it a memorable classic. While “Hungry Heart” does not have any Christmas or winter connotations throughout, it is difficult to not picture driving past snow-covered trees or sitting by a warm fireplace when listening.
Listen here.
Talk To You – Sam Fender ft Elton John
Fender and John’s combined talent creates a catchy tune that is almost as wintery as the single cover. The soft use of the piano and bells in the background beautifully accompany Sam’s voice and the heartfelt lyrics he belts throughout. While the song captures the lonely emotions of a breakup, many listeners can relate to this as times are definitely tougher during the holiday season, particularly for those who have lost a partner, friend, or family member. However, the song also emphasises feelings of hope, with lyrics like “and I will never stop loving”, to highlight the point that there is always more love to give, and better times eventually come. This mix of emotions are intertwined immaculately, making it a relatable, yet optimistic tune that people will think of when reminiscing on the winter season.
Listen here.
Loving You – Paolo Nutini
Paolo’s distinctive voice shines in the soft rock genre, however, this song in particular has comfort blaring from the melody. Nutini delivers loving lyrics like ‘And it’s your flawless soul that bleeds my stone’, captivating listeners with his impressive vocals, and giving the perfect vibe of a cosy winter in love. This makes this tune most definitely the one you want to listen to after a busy Christmas Day, or while you’re preparing for the madness.
Listen here.
Merry Christmas, Please Don’t Call – Bleachers –
Now, I am aware that this title does sound like a typical Christmas song, but stick with me, because it is so much better. Much like ‘Talk To You’, the song lyrics do highlight the feelings many people feel during a breakup, however, the relatability makes this song comforting. Starting off with a slow synth and guitar accompanied voice, the beat picks up after the first chorus, making listeners want to unexpectedly get up and dance. While the gut-wrenching lyrics can make this doubtful, it is for sure the song that makes you want to belt along. If you want to dance away the pain this winter, this tune is for you.
Listen here.
That’s How Strong My Love Is – Otis Redding
Soft jazz is a go to for a cosy night in. Therefore, this instantly recognisable love song from Redding is essential for the hibernation season. Features like the soft instruments, love-fuelled lyrics, and Otis’s passionate vocals make this ballad make you want to press play, have a glass of wine and relax with your loved ones during this chaotic Christmas season.
Listen here.
Reflecting Light – Sam Phillips
For all Gilmore Girls fanatics, this song is most likely already on your playlist, as its prominently known as well-loved couple Lorelai and Luke’s anthem. Phillips, however, pleases all listeners with her soft vocals, proving that the introspective song would certainly not be the same if it was sung by anyone else. Overall, with Sam’s use of soft guitar playing and metaphorical words, this gentle melody provides the flawless comfort everyone needs during this season.
Listen here.
There Is A Light That Never Goes Out – The Smiths
Morissey may not be the most festive, but this does not stop this song from giving that wholesome winter feeling through its sweet lyrics and gentle melody. Not only does this song feel like you’re in a festive rom com, but it is upbeat in the most chill way. There isn’t anything too crazy going on, but there are a range of instruments which make this masterpiece perfect to blast on a cold, frosty night.
Listen here.
Our House – Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young
This beloved folk rock song captures the essence of romanticising the simple moments at home through lyrics like ‘two cats in the yard’, and ‘listen to you play your love songs’. Romanticism like this resonates with so many people during the winter season, as hibernating from the bleak weather can truly teach people to feel better about their homes and take pride in this comfort. Endless warmth is highlighted in this sweetly nostalgic song, making it the perfect remedy to the winter blues.
Listen here.
Fade Into You – Mazzy Star
This now TikTok famous song captures all the loving and comforting feelings that Christmas time is all about. Contrasting with the upbeat melodies typically associated with winter, this is a fantastic slow dancing paced love song guaranteed to provide immense comfort and cosiness that listeners need during winter.
Listen here.
Super Trouper – ABBA
While this anthem does put many in mind of a certain summer musical, the bell-sounding synthesiser and lyrics of loneliness which many feel during this cold season will make a spectacular new edition to a winter playlist. Despite that the lyrics emphasise feelings of isolation, the clarity of hope is still prominent with the phrase ‘Cause somewhere in the crowd there’s you’. ABBA’s lyrics resonate particularly with families coming home and reuniting for Christmas, as well as just the overall feeling of finding hope in dark times. Overall, this is a groovy playlist-worthy tune for all listeners.
Listen here.
I’ve Seen It – Olivia Dean
Up next on this list is a song that does not necessarily have any connotations with winter. However, it is a relaxing song for Christmas occasions like travelling home, spending time with family, and wrapping presents. If “Love Actually” took place today, this song would 100 per cent be in the soundtrack. After all, Olivia Dean has written beautiful lyrics about seeing love everywhere, particularly when thinking about friends and family, making this calm wintery song essential for winding down and getting cosy during this cold weather.
Listen here.