The winter season offers the perfect opportunity to broaden music tastes and try some new songs and artists. Whether it is lively party music or more mellow music, there is always a piece of music that fits the season perfectly.
In the desolate winter months, it’s easy to want to snuggle up and listen to soothing, pleasant music to avoid the frozen wasteland that is waiting outside. Jhené Aiko’s album “Sail Out” is an excellent pick for those in a lazy mood. Aiko croons about the peaceful state of being content, something everyone needs in their life. Soothing and melodic, her voice lulls the listener into a blissful trance to contradict the harsh conditions outside.
If tranquility is not your thing in the winter time, Beyoncé’s surprise album “BEYONCÉ” will motivate anyone to get on their feet and dance around for hours on end. The collection’s upbeat tempos and saucy lyrics will get listeners motivated to take on the world, even as the temperature outside dips into the negatives.
On the other end of the spectrum, Jason Mraz brings out rays of sunshine with his light guitar and lovely voice. Songs like “I Won’t Give Up,” off of his 2012 album “Love is a Four Letter Word,” will make any listener feel just a little happier while the snow traps everyone indoors. Every song on “Love Is a Four Letter Word” will bring sparks of happiness. His sweet and romanticized lyrics will certainly lighten the dark and dreary moods brought on by the winter months.
Other artists like Bon Iver opt for more tranquil sounds. Classic Bon Iver tracks like “Skinny Love” are perfect for cozying up with someone or a cup of coffee, creating a homey vibe despite the adverse conditions. In this same vein, English duo The xx are perfect for those cold days when reading a good book sounds like the ideal plan to avoid going outside., The xx use spacious, synthetic beats and hypnotic harmonies to captivate listeners.
Mumford and Sons offer an excellent collection of songs that can be both relaxing and motivating. Their up-tempo, emotional and thoughtful songs make them immensely popular. With their powerful voices and moving lyrics, they can take the listener anywhere from the comfort of their bed.
Although this may not be immediately obvious, rap and R&B artists have a way of spinning words and rhymes to lift any mood; especially tackling the winter blues. Drake’s most recent release, “Nothing Was the Same,” is more of a personal narrative than his previous albums, letting every listener connect to certain lyrics. Drake’s relaxed tempos and personal lyrics are incredibly winter-friendly, and will definitely pull listeners in.
Another thoughtful hip-hop and R&B artist, Childish Gambino, offers a similar outlet for those overwhelmed by the emotions brought on by winter-time sadness. With introspective lyrics and soothing, layered beats, Gambino’s new album “Because the Internet” checks all the boxes for a relaxing listen. Songs like “Pink Toes,” performed with Aiko, will make any listener smile. The track’s soft and sensitive sounds and the interaction it displays between the two artists are enough to make any listener smile.
Easily the hardest time of the year to feel any motivation, winter can be difficult to get through to say the least. For many, music serves as a platform to escape the current world and go to a place entirely their own. These artists make it even easier, pulling listeners deep into their reflective and relatable lyrics and into a world filled with a little less snow. Cozy and comfortable, these albums are very well suited for the winter.
Ana Lopez can be reached at [email protected].
