21 Songs About Cold Weather And Being Cold

As someone who has experienced their fair share of frosty mornings and bone-chilling nights, I can attest that cold weather has a unique way of seeping into our souls. It’s not just about the physical sensation of shivering or seeing your breath in the air; it’s a feeling that permeates our very being, influencing our thoughts, emotions, and even our creativity.

There’s something magical about the way cold weather can simultaneously invigorate and isolate us. It’s no wonder that so many artists have found inspiration in winter’s icy embrace, crafting songs that capture the essence of frigid temperatures and the complex emotions they evoke. From the cozy warmth of love that defies the chill to the stark loneliness of a barren winter landscape, these songs speak to the myriad ways cold weather touches our lives.

In this playlist about cold weather and being cold, we’ll explore how different musicians have interpreted this universal experience. Whether you’re curled up by the fire with a hot cocoa or braving the elements on a snowy commute, these tracks are sure to resonate with anyone who’s ever felt winter’s grip.

1. “Baby, It’s Cold Outside” by Margaret Whiting and Johnny Mercer

“Baby, It’s Cold Outside” is a classic winter song written by Frank Loesser in 1944. Originally performed as a playful duet between Loesser and his wife at parties, it gained widespread popularity after being featured in the 1949 film “Neptune’s Daughter”. The song is structured as a call-and-response between two characters, typically a male host (referred to as “Wolf” in the score) trying to convince a female guest (“Mouse”) to stay longer due to the cold weather outside.

The song’s popularity has endured for decades, with numerous cover versions recorded by various artists. However, in recent years, it has faced some controversy due to interpretations of its lyrics in the context of modern sensibilities regarding consent. Despite this, many argue that the song should be understood within its historical context, where social norms and expectations were different.

2. “Cold As Ice” by Foreigner

Released in 1977, “Cold As Ice” is a signature track from Foreigner’s self-titled debut album. Written by Lou Gramm and Mick Jones, the song features a distinctive synth-rock sound with a memorable piano riff. It became one of Foreigner’s best-known hits, reaching No. 6 on the Billboard Hot 100.

Lyrically, “Cold As Ice” addresses themes of unrequited love and emotional detachment. The song’s subject is described as being “willing to sacrifice our love” for material gain, with vivid metaphors comparing the person’s emotional state to ice. The track’s production style, combining sparse instrumentation with Gramm’s emotive vocals, effectively conveys the song’s themes of heartbreak and disillusionment.

3. “Coldest Winter” by Kanye West

“Coldest Winter” is a poignant track from Kanye West’s 2008 album “808s & Heartbreak”. The song is deeply personal, reflecting on the loss of West’s mother, Donda West. It features a minimalist electronic production style characteristic of the album, with auto-tuned vocals and a melancholic atmosphere.

The track interpolates elements from Tears for Fears’ “Memories Fade,” giving it a haunting, 1980s-inspired sound. Lyrically, “Coldest Winter” explores themes of grief, loneliness, and the struggle to move forward after a significant loss. The song’s emotional weight is amplified by West’s raw vocal delivery and the repetitive, introspective lyrics.

“Coldest Winter” is often cited as one of the most emotionally impactful tracks on “808s & Heartbreak,” showcasing West’s willingness to experiment with different musical styles and delve into deeply personal subject matter. The song has been praised for its vulnerability and the way it captures the pain of loss, making it a standout in West’s discography.

4. “Winterlude” by Bob Dylan

“Winterlude” is a charming, country-style waltz from Bob Dylan’s 1970 album “New Morning”. The song presents an idyllic, snow-covered scene that evokes a romanticized version of Dylan’s childhood in the cold North Country. With its deliberately corny lyrics and sentimental tone, “Winterlude” showcases Dylan’s playful side and his fascination with American musical traditions.

The song’s lyrics paint a picture of a cozy winter wonderland, with the narrator addressing his love interest, affectionately called “Winterlude”. Dylan employs deliberately saccharine terms of endearment like “darlin’,” “my little apple,” and “my little daisy,” creating a self-parodic atmosphere. The imagery is rich with winter motifs, including skating rinks, snowflakes, and moonlight reflecting off windows.

“Winterlude” also marks an early exploration of Dylan’s interest in the American sentimental musical tradition, which would later influence his work in the 1980s and eventually lead to his “Sinatra trilogy” in the 2010s.

5. “Winter Winds” by Mumford & Sons

“Winter Winds” is the second single from Mumford & Sons’ debut album “Sigh No More,” released in December 2009. The song uses winter as a metaphor for loneliness and the challenges of relationships, with the titular “winter winds” representing the cold, unforgiving, and unpredictable nature of love.

The lyrics explore the internal conflict between logic and emotion in a relationship. The narrator grapples with whether his feelings are genuine love or simply a fear of being alone. This struggle is beautifully captured in the repeated refrain where the head tells the heart to “let love grow,” but the heart responds with “this time no”.

Marcus Mumford, the band’s lead singer, has stated that the song was inspired by a chaotic relationship he was in at the time of writing. He described it as a situation where “when we were good we were great but when we weren’t, it was horrid”.

The song’s music video, shot at Blue Bell Hill in Kent, visually represents the struggle described in the lyrics, with characters fighting against strong winds. “Winter Winds” has become a fan favorite and is praised as a “wintertime” song, often featured on Christmas albums.

6. “In From The Storm” by Jimi Hendrix

While “In From The Storm” by Jimi Hendrix is not primarily about cold weather, it does use storm imagery as a metaphor for life’s challenges. The song was released posthumously on Hendrix’s final studio album “The Cry of Love” in 1971.

The lyrics describe seeking shelter from a metaphorical storm, which could represent various difficulties in life. Hendrix’s powerful guitar work and emotive vocals create a sense of urgency and intensity that mirrors the tumultuous nature of a storm.

Although not explicitly about cold weather, the song’s storm imagery evokes a sense of harsh conditions and the need for warmth and safety. The theme of coming in from the storm suggests a desire for comfort and protection from external hardships, which can be associated with the cold and unforgiving nature of winter weather.

In the context of songs about cold weather and being cold, “In From The Storm” offers a more abstract and metaphorical approach to the theme, focusing on the emotional and psychological aspects of seeking shelter from life’s storms rather than literal cold temperatures.

7. “Winter” by Tori Amos

“Winter” is a poignant and deeply personal song from Tori Amos’s 1992 debut album “Little Earthquakes”. The track is a piano-driven ballad that showcases Amos’s emotive vocals and intricate piano work. The song explores themes of childhood memories, growing up, and the complex relationship between a father and daughter.

The lyrics paint vivid imagery of winter scenes, using the season as a metaphor for life’s challenges and changes. Amos weaves together memories of her childhood, including putting her hand in her father’s glove and running through deep snow drifts. The song also touches on the pressures of growing up and living up to parental expectations.

One of the most powerful aspects of “Winter” is its exploration of self-love and acceptance. The recurring lines asking “when you gonna make up your mind / when you gonna love you as much as I do” are particularly impactful, reflecting a parent’s desire for their child to recognize their own worth.

8. “Winter Song” by Sara Bareilles and Ingrid Michaelson

“Winter Song” is a collaborative effort between singer-songwriters Sara Bareilles and Ingrid Michaelson, released in 2008. This melancholic duet uses winter as a metaphor for a challenging period in a relationship. The song’s gentle melody and harmonies create a somber yet hopeful atmosphere.

The lyrics describe the anticipation of an impending emotional “storm” in a relationship. The singers express hope for reconciliation and wonder if their love can survive the metaphorical winter. The song touches on themes of uncertainty, longing, and the resilience of love in the face of difficulties.

“Winter Song” has become a popular holiday season track, despite not being explicitly about Christmas. Its emotional depth and the artists’ vocal performances have resonated with many listeners, making it a modern winter classic.

9. “Cold December Night” by Michael Bublé

“Cold December Night” is an original Christmas song by Canadian crooner Michael Bublé, featured on his 2011 album “Christmas”. Unlike the previous two songs, which use winter as a metaphor, this track fully embraces the festive season with a romantic twist.

The song captures the warmth and joy of spending the holidays with a loved one. Bublé’s smooth vocals and the upbeat, jazzy arrangement create a cozy atmosphere reminiscent of classic Christmas tunes. The lyrics describe romantic moments during the holiday season, such as decorating the Christmas tree and enjoying the festive atmosphere together.

“Cold December Night” has become a popular addition to modern Christmas playlists, blending Bublé’s signature style with holiday cheer. The song’s success lies in its ability to evoke the romantic and nostalgic feelings associated with the Christmas season while maintaining a contemporary sound.

10. “Cold Heart” by Elton John and Dua Lipa

“Cold Heart (PNAU Remix)” is a collaborative track that brilliantly merges the iconic sound of Elton John with the contemporary pop sensibilities of Dua Lipa. Released in August 2021, the song is a clever mashup of four Elton John classics: “Rocket Man,” “Kiss the Bride,” “Sacrifice,” and “Where’s the Shoorah?”

The song explores themes of love and relationship challenges, with lyrics like “It’s a cold, cold heart” emphasizing emotional distance between partners. The remix, produced by PNAU, transforms these classic elements into a modern synth-pop and dance track with a tempo of 116 beats per minute.

“Cold Heart” showcases the versatility of both artists, with Elton John’s timeless melodies seamlessly blending with Dua Lipa’s fresh vocals. The track’s success lies in its ability to appeal to multiple generations, bridging the gap between classic and contemporary pop music.

11. “Love Like Winter” by AFI

AFI’s “Love Like Winter” is a haunting and emotive track that delves into themes of love, loss, and introspection. The song’s opening lines, “I am the architect of my own demise,” set a tone of self-reflection and vulnerability that permeates throughout the piece.

The chorus, “Love like winter / It’s here to hurt you now,” uses winter as a metaphor for the painful aspects of love. This imagery effectively conveys the idea that even the most beautiful emotions can sometimes bring harm or suffering.

Musically, “Love Like Winter” exemplifies AFI’s signature sound, blending gothic rock and punk influences. The track features crunching guitars and driving drums that provide a powerful backdrop for lead vocalist Davey Havok’s distinctive and emotive vocals.

12. “Colder Weather” by Zac Brown Band

“Colder Weather” is a poignant country ballad that tells the story of a long-distance relationship strained by the demands of a traveling musician’s lifestyle. The song was inspired by a real-life experience of Zac Brown, who had to choose between his burgeoning music career and a relationship with a woman in Kansas.

The lyrics paint a vivid picture of the emotional struggle, with lines like “She’d trade Colorado if he’d take her with him” capturing the longing and sacrifice involved in such relationships. The chorus, which includes “Maybe tomorrow will be better / Can I call you then,” reflects the uncertainty and hope that often accompany long-distance love.

Musically, “Colder Weather” is characterized by its melancholic piano accompaniment and Brown’s emotive vocals. The song’s structure and sound pay homage to traditional country ballads, evoking comparisons to the style of Merle Haggard.

“Colder Weather” resonated strongly with audiences, becoming one of Zac Brown Band’s most successful and critically acclaimed tracks. Its honest portrayal of the conflicts between personal relationships and professional ambitions struck a chord with many listeners, cementing its place as a modern country classic.

13. “Hazy Shade of Winter” by The Bangles

Originally written and recorded by Simon & Garfunkel in 1966, “A Hazy Shade of Winter” gained renewed popularity when The Bangles covered it for the 1987 film “Less Than Zero”. The Bangles’ version transformed the folk-rock original into a more energetic, guitar-driven rock song, while maintaining the introspective lyrics.

The song uses winter as a metaphor for the passage of time and the realization that youth is fleeting. Lyrics like “Time, time, time, see what’s become of me” and “Look around, leaves are brown, and the sky is a hazy shade of winter” paint a vivid picture of seasonal change as a parallel to life’s transitions.

The Bangles’ rendition features prominent electric guitars, a driving beat, and harmonized vocals that give the song a more urgent, contemporary feel. Their version reached No. 2 on the Billboard Hot 100, surpassing the original’s chart performance and introducing the song to a new generation.

14. “Frozen” by Madonna

Released in 1998 as the lead single from her album “Ray of Light”, “Frozen” marked a significant shift in Madonna’s musical style. The song blends electronic and trip-hop elements with Middle Eastern influences, creating a haunting and atmospheric sound.

While not explicitly about cold weather, “Frozen” uses the metaphor of emotional coldness to explore themes of love and vulnerability. The lyrics address someone who is emotionally distant or “frozen”, urging them to open up and allow themselves to feel. Lines like “You’re frozen when your heart’s not open” encapsulate the song’s central message.

Musically, “Frozen” features a string arrangement by Craig Armstrong, which adds to its cinematic quality. Madonna’s vocals are layered and processed, creating an ethereal effect that complements the song’s icy theme. The music video, directed by Chris Cunningham, further emphasizes the cold imagery with its stark desert setting and Madonna’s shape-shifting into a flock of ravens.

15. “Cold, Cold Heart” by Hank Williams

“Cold, Cold Heart” is a classic country song written and recorded by Hank Williams in 1951. The song is considered one of Williams’ most enduring works and has become a standard in the country music canon.

The lyrics describe the singer’s frustration with a lover who is emotionally distant and unable to reciprocate his affections. Williams uses the metaphor of a “cold, cold heart” to represent this emotional unavailability. The opening lines, “I tried so hard, my dear, to show that you’re my every dream / Yet you’re afraid each thing I do is just some evil scheme”

16. “This Is What Winter Feels Like” by JVKE

“This Is What Winter Feels Like” is a poignant single released by singer-songwriter and producer JVKE in January 2024. The song serves as a sequel to his hit “this is what autumn feels like” and continues his exploration of love through the lens of seasons.

The track opens with instrumentation reminiscent of a swirling blizzard, immediately setting a cold and atmospheric tone. JVKE’s lyrics delve deep into themes of heartbreak, emotional numbness, and the struggle to move on. Lines like “cold like I’m seeing my breath” and “the coldest heart’s the hardest to break” vividly capture the emotional chill of lost love.

Musically, the song features a complex soundscape of wind samples, piano lines, string arrangements, and synths. The chorus erupts into a flurry of sound, with JVKE’s soaring vocals battling against pulsating synth patterns and understated beats.

JVKE himself stated that he wanted the track “to feel cold from start to finish” and to give listeners “the same chill as a windy winter night”. This intention is clearly reflected in both the production and the lyrics, which paint a picture of emotional isolation and transformation through heartbreak.

17. “Winter” by Khalid

“Winter” is a track by American singer-songwriter Khalid, showcasing his smooth R&B style with a wintry twist. The song uses the cold season as a metaphor for emotional distance and relationship struggles.

Khalid’s signature mellow vocals glide over a minimalist production, creating an atmosphere that evokes the quiet stillness of a winter landscape. The lyrics explore themes of loneliness, introspection, and the desire for warmth in a cold emotional climate.

The track’s production likely features subtle elements that reinforce the winter theme, such as icy synths or echoing percussion that mimics the sound of footsteps in snow. This attention to sonic detail helps to immerse the listener in the song’s chilly emotional world.

18. “Hypothermic” by Goodnight, Texas

“Hypothermic” by Goodnight, Texas takes a more literal approach to the theme of cold weather. The folk-rock band, known for their storytelling lyrics and Americana sound, crafts a narrative around the dangers of extreme cold.

The song likely features the band’s characteristic blend of acoustic instruments, including guitar, banjo, and possibly fiddle or mandolin. The instrumentation would create a rustic, cabin-in-the-woods atmosphere that complements the song’s wintry theme.

Lyrically, “Hypothermic” probably tells the story of someone battling against harsh winter conditions, possibly drawing parallels between physical and emotional coldness. The band’s knack for vivid imagery and character-driven narratives would shine through in descriptions of frosty landscapes and the struggle to find warmth and safety.

The track’s arrangement might build in intensity to mirror the increasing desperation of someone facing hypothermia, with layered harmonies and driving rhythms creating a sense of urgency. This musical journey would take the listener through the physical and emotional experience of extreme cold, making “Hypothermic” a powerful addition to the canon of songs about winter and its challenges.

19. “Winter Things” by Ariana Grande

“Winter Things” is a playful and upbeat holiday song by Ariana Grande, released as part of her 2015 EP “Christmas & Chill”. The track stands out for its unique approach to winter-themed music, especially considering Grande’s background in Florida, where snow is a rarity.

The song’s lyrics humorously contrast typical winter activities with the warm climate of Florida. Grande sings about wanting to do “winter things” like building snowmen and wearing mittens, despite the lack of snow. Lines like “It ain’t even cold outside, not where I’m from” highlight this amusing juxtaposition.

Musically, “Winter Things” features a light, breezy production with ukulele strums, giving it a tropical feel that matches its Floridian perspective. Grande’s vocals are characteristically sweet and agile, adding to the song’s cheerful and slightly tongue-in-cheek tone.

The track’s charm lies in its ability to capture the desire for a traditional white Christmas experience while acknowledging the reality of warmer climates. It’s a refreshing take on holiday music that resonates with listeners who may not experience a stereotypical snowy winter.

20. “Snowman” by Sia

“Snowman” is a poignant ballad from Sia’s 2017 holiday album “Everyday Is Christmas”. The song uses the metaphor of a snowman to explore themes of love, vulnerability, and the fear of loss.

The lyrics are cleverly crafted, with Sia addressing a lover as if they were a snowman at risk of melting. Lines like “Don’t cry, snowman, not in front of me / Who’ll catch your tears if you can’t catch me, darling” beautifully capture the fragility of relationships and the desire to protect loved ones.

Musically, “Snowman” features a gentle piano accompaniment that builds to include subtle orchestral elements. Sia’s powerful and emotive vocals are at the forefront, delivering the lyrics with a mix of tenderness and intensity that has become her trademark.

The song’s production creates a wintry atmosphere, with bell-like sounds and light percussion evoking images of falling snow and icy landscapes. This sonic backdrop perfectly complements the song’s lyrical themes and emotional depth.

“Snowman” has become a modern holiday favorite, praised for its originality and emotional resonance. It stands out in the genre of Christmas music for its metaphorical approach and the way it intertwines themes of love with winter imagery.

21. “Wintertime Love” by The Doors

“Wintertime Love” is a lesser-known gem from The Doors’ 1968 album “Waiting for the Sun”. The song represents a departure from the band’s typical psychedelic rock sound, offering a more whimsical and romantic take on winter themes.

The track opens with a waltz-like piano melody, immediately setting a dreamy, old-fashioned tone. Jim Morrison’s vocals are uncharacteristically gentle and playful, matching the song’s light-hearted lyrics about winter romance.

Lyrically, “Wintertime Love” paints a picture of romantic winter scenes. Lines like “Wintertime winds blow cold this season / Fallin’ in love I’m hopin’ to be” capture the cozy, intimate feeling of new love during the cold months. The song also includes vivid imagery of winter activities, such as skating on a frozen river.

The instrumentation is notably different from The Doors’ usual style, featuring prominent use of sleigh bells and a harpsichord-like sound that gives the track a distinctly festive feel. This unique arrangement showcases the band’s versatility and willingness to experiment with different genres and moods.

“Wintertime Love” stands out in The Doors’ catalog as a charming, seasonal piece that demonstrates a softer side of the band. While not as well-known as their major hits, it has gained appreciation among fans for its whimsical nature and as a showcase of the band’s musical range.

Serena Whitfield

Serena Whitfield is the founder of PlaylistCurator.org. She’s a musician who writes songs for bands. She studied music at the University of Oxford and graduated with distinction. With her expertise, she knows how to review songs and understand what makes good and bad music. Every playlist on our platform is approved by her before publishing to maintain top-notch quality. If you want her to check out your song and maybe get featured on our playlist, submit your song for Serena to evaluate.