15 Songs About Snow And Snowfall

As I sit by my frosted window, watching delicate snowflakes dance their way to the ground, I’m reminded of the magical quality snow brings to our world. Growing up in a region where winter meant months of snow-covered landscapes, I’ve experienced firsthand the transformative power of snowfall. From the hushed silence of a fresh blanket of snow to the exhilarating crunch beneath my boots on a crisp winter morning, snow has always held a special place in my heart.

In this playlist, I’ll take you on a musical journey through 15 songs that celebrate snow and snowfall. Each track offers a different perspective on this frosty subject, reminding us of the many ways snow touches our lives and stirs our emotions.

1. “20 Years Of Snow” By Regina Spektor

“20 Years of Snow” by Regina Spektor delves into themes of isolation, emotional detachment, and the desire for escape. The song paints a vivid picture of two characters: a wounded animal, symbolizing someone who is emotionally or psychologically broken, and his daughter, who embodies purity and innocence. The daughter, described as “twenty years of clean,” represents a state of untainted existence, untouched by negativity and hatred. However, her purity is fragile, as she is referred to as a “dying breed” in a world filled with corruption and decay. The song’s surreal and grotesque imagery, such as “moldy heads and pissing on sugar cubes,” contrasts the daughter’s purity with the surrounding decay. The repeated call to “feel the waltz” symbolizes a longing for connection and emotional engagement in a world that feels detached and superficial.

2. “While I Shovel The Snow” By The Walkmen

“While I Shovel the Snow” by The Walkmen is a contemplative and introspective song that captures the quiet solitude of shoveling snow. The song’s lyrics reflect on the passage of time and the meditative nature of this mundane task. The act of shoveling snow becomes a metaphor for clearing away emotional burdens and finding a sense of peace and clarity. The song’s melancholic tone and reflective lyrics evoke a sense of nostalgia and introspection, making it a fitting addition to a playlist about snow and snowfall.

3. “January Hymn” By The Decemberists

“January Hymn” by The Decemberists is a reflective and nostalgic song that captures the quiet beauty of a winter’s day. The lyrics describe the act of clearing away snow on a winter Sunday and the memories that come flooding back during this solitary task. The song reflects on the passage of time, childhood memories of playing in the snow, and the fleeting nature of life. The imagery of “wandering the gray memorial park” and the “fleeting beating of hearts” evokes a sense of melancholy and longing. The song’s gentle melody and introspective lyrics make it a poignant addition to a playlist about snow and snowfall.

4. “Let It Go” By Idina Menzel

“Let It Go” by Idina Menzel, from Disney’s Frozen, is an anthem of self-acceptance and liberation. The song marks a pivotal moment in the film where Queen Elsa embraces her true self and her ability to generate ice. The lyrics convey a powerful message of letting go of fear and societal expectations, and embracing one’s unique qualities. The repeated line “Let it go, let it go, can’t hold it back anymore” serves as a mantra for releasing inhibitions and living authentically. The song’s empowering message and captivating melody have resonated with audiences worldwide, making it an iconic song about embracing one’s true self amidst the backdrop of a snowy landscape.

5. “Cold Rain And Snow” By Grateful Dead

“Cold Rain and Snow” by the Grateful Dead is a traditional song that has been adapted and popularized by the band. The song, originally known as “Rain and Snow,” dates back to the early 20th century and was included in the book English Folk Songs from the Southern Appalachians. The Grateful Dead’s version, which appeared on their debut album in 1967, tells the story of a troubled relationship. The lyrics describe a man lamenting his mistreatment by his wife, set against a backdrop of cold rain and snow. The song’s haunting melody and melancholic lyrics capture the bleakness of the situation, making it a poignant addition to any playlist about snow and snowfall.

6. “Winter Song” By Sara Bareilles And Ingrid Michaelson

“Winter Song” by Sara Bareilles and Ingrid Michaelson is a beautiful and emotive piece that reflects on themes of love, loss, and longing during the winter season. Released in 2008, the song features delicate harmonies and a gentle melody that evoke the quiet, introspective nature of winter. The lyrics speak to the passage of time and the enduring nature of love, even in the face of separation and cold. The refrain “Is love alive?” poignantly captures the uncertainty and hope that can accompany the winter months. This song’s introspective and emotional depth makes it a fitting choice for a playlist centered around snow and snowfall.

7. “Let It Snow! Let It Snow! Let It Snow!” by Frank Sinatra

“Let It Snow! Let It Snow! Let It Snow!” by Frank Sinatra is a classic holiday song that exudes warmth and coziness despite the wintery weather outside. Released in 1945, the song’s cheerful and upbeat melody, combined with its lyrics about enjoying a cozy night indoors while the snow falls outside, has made it a perennial favorite. The chorus, “Oh, the weather outside is frightful, but the fire is so delightful,” captures the essence of finding joy and comfort in the midst of a snowstorm. This song’s timeless charm and festive spirit make it an essential addition to any snow-themed playlist.

8. “White Winter Hymnal” By Fleet Foxes

“White Winter Hymnal” by Fleet Foxes is a hauntingly beautiful song that evokes a sense of nostalgia and the passage of time. Released as the first single from their 2008 debut album, the song features intricate vocal harmonies and a simple yet captivating melody. The lyrics, which describe a group of children with “scarves of red tied ’round their throats” and the imagery of snow turning red “as strawberries in the summertime,” create a vivid and somewhat eerie picture. The song’s ambiguous and poetic nature, combined with its evocative imagery, makes it a compelling addition to a playlist about snow and snowfall.

9. “A Hazy Shade Of Winter” By Simon & Garfunkel

“A Hazy Shade of Winter” by Simon & Garfunkel is a poignant reflection on the passage of time and the changing seasons as metaphors for life’s cycles. Written by Paul Simon and released in 1966, the song features a folk-rock sound with evocative lyrics that transition from fall to winter, symbolizing the inevitable march towards the end of life. The repeated imagery of “leaves are brown” and “a hazy shade of winter” captures a sense of melancholy and introspection. The song speaks to the fleeting nature of youth and the regrets that come with aging, urging listeners to hold on to hope even as time slips away. The song’s enduring appeal is evidenced by its later cover by The Bangles, which brought it renewed popularity in the 1980s.

10. “Coldest Winter” By Kanye West

“Coldest Winter” by Kanye West is a deeply personal and emotional track from his 2008 album 808s & Heartbreak. The song is a tribute to West’s late mother, Donda West, and expresses his grief and sorrow over her passing. The coldness of winter serves as a metaphor for the numbness and isolation he feels in the wake of his loss. The minimalist production, characterized by heavy use of Auto-Tune and sparse instrumentation, underscores the song’s somber mood. The lyrics, “Goodbye my friend, will I ever love again?” poignantly capture the depth of his pain and the sense of emptiness that accompanies profound grief. This song’s raw emotionality and stark imagery make it a powerful addition to a playlist about snow and snowfall.

11. “Goodbye England (Covered In Snow)” By Laura Marling

“Goodbye England (Covered in Snow)” by Laura Marling is a tender and nostalgic song that reflects on the singer’s connection to her homeland. Released in 2010, the song features Marling’s signature folk style, with delicate acoustic guitar and evocative lyrics. The imagery of England covered in snow serves as a backdrop for memories of childhood and family. The song’s chorus, “You were so smart then, in your jacket and coat, my softest red scarf was warming your throat,” captures a sense of warmth and affection amidst the cold winter landscape. Marling’s reflective and intimate storytelling makes this song a heartfelt ode to home and the passage of time, fitting beautifully into a snow-themed playlist.

12. “Amid The Falling Snow” By Enya

“Amid the Falling Snow” by Enya is a serene and ethereal song from her 2005 album Amarantine. The song’s gentle melody and Enya’s soothing vocals create a tranquil atmosphere, evoking the quiet beauty of snowfall. The lyrics describe a sense of wonder and nostalgia as the singer reflects on memories of past winters. The imagery of snow falling softly and the peacefulness of the winter night convey a sense of calm and introspection. The song’s refrain, “Amid the falling snow,” captures the magic and stillness of a snowy evening, making it a perfect addition to a playlist celebrating the beauty and tranquility of snow and snowfall.

13. “Valley Winter Song” By Fountains Of Wayne

“Valley Winter Song” by Fountains of Wayne is a heartfelt ballad that captures the essence of a New England winter. The song, from their 2003 album Welcome Interstate Managers, reflects on the challenges and beauty of snowy winters. The lyrics describe the singer’s attempt to cheer up his beloved during the cold, dark months, emphasizing themes of love and hope. The chorus, “And the snow is coming down on our New England town, and it’s been falling all day long,” paints a vivid picture of the relentless snowfall. The song’s gentle acoustic guitar and soothing vocals create a comforting soundscape, making it a perfect addition to a playlist about snow and snowfall. The personal touch in the lyrics, inspired by Chris Collingwood’s own experiences, adds an intimate feel to the song.

14. “50 Words For Snow” By Kate Bush And Stephen Fry

“50 Words for Snow” by Kate Bush, featuring Stephen Fry, is an imaginative and experimental track from her 2011 album of the same name. The song plays on the myth that Inuit languages have numerous words for snow, exploring the concept through a poetic and whimsical lens. 

Stephen Fry’s deep, authoritative voice lists various invented terms for snow, while Bush’s ethereal vocals and minimalist piano create a hauntingly beautiful atmosphere. The song’s structure and lyrical content reflect Bush’s unique approach to storytelling, blending fantasy with introspection. The track’s meditative quality and inventive wordplay make it a standout piece that captures the multifaceted nature of snow.

15. “Fifteen Feet Of Pure White Snow” By Nick Cave And The Bad Seeds

“Fifteen Feet of Pure White Snow” by Nick Cave and The Bad Seeds is a dark and haunting song from their 2001 album No More Shall We Part. The song’s lyrics depict a surreal and eerie winter landscape, where characters like Mona, Mary, and others are lost or missing under the snow. The repeated imagery of “fifteen feet of pure white snow” conveys a sense of overwhelming isolation and despair. The song’s haunting melody and Cave’s deep, resonant voice enhance the chilling atmosphere. The track explores themes of loss, madness, and the oppressive nature of winter, making it a compelling and intense addition to a snow-themed playlist.

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