13 Easy Winter Songs to Sing (That Aren’t Christmas Songs!)
Winter is a very interesting time of year as far as gigs go!
Holiday music is everywhere, your voice is tired, the heat is blasting, and somehow every song is either too high, too slow, or something you’re just not feeling (maybe because you’ve heard most of it a million times!)
But the good news:
You do not need to sing Mariah or “Mary Did You Know” to sound good in winter! It’s ok to mix things up! In fact, some of my singers come to me needing a song good for the season, but have been told “no Christmas songs, be creative!” Here are easy, winter-appropriate songs that:
- Sit comfortably in the voice
- Don’t require vocal gymnastics
- Work for lessons, karaoke, open mics, or casual performances like open mic
- Won’t emotionally destroy you before January ends
What Makes a Song “Easy” in Winter?
Easy winter songs usually:
- Stay in a comfortable range
- Avoid long, sustained high notes
- Feel speech-like rather than operatic or overly belty
- Reward intimacy over volume
- Let the mic do some of the work
Easy Winter Songs (Non-Christmas Edition)
1. “Winter Song” – Sara Bareilles & Ingrid Michaelson
Gentle, conversational, and emotionally grounded.
Great for breath flow and storytelling without strain. It’s soooo gorgeous!
2. “River” – Joni Mitchell
Low, moody, and perfect when your voice feels a little tired.
Winter melancholy without vocal punishment. Sarah McLachlan also does a fantastic cover. Ah, Joni…..
3. “Landslide” – Fleetwood Mac
A winter staple for a reason.
Lives comfortably in the middle range and is sooo perfect for a winter open mic, right?
4. “Both Sides Now” – Joni Mitchell
Especially effective for adult singers.
No vocal tricks — just clarity and intention. I guess I love Joni, she’s on this list three times!
5. “Snow” – White Christmas
A true winter classic that’s much easier than people expect.
Best approached with a light tone and crisp diction — not big Broadway bravado.
Lower keys and duet versions work beautifully here. Just keep it speech like and low key!
6. “Back to December”- Taylor Swift
One of my younger singers recently used this lovely ballad and got a great response. Its acoustic vibes are perfect for this time of year.
7. “The Moon Song” – Phoebe Bridgers
Soft, intimate, and can work well for a variety of voice types.
Excellent for singers who tend to oversing, they can find a new way to appreciate what their voice and musicianship can do!
8. “A Case of You” – Joni Mitchell
Lives low, tells a story, and doesn’t demand vocal power.
A winter lesson favorite for good reason, and I hope people always find her songs so rewarding!
9. “Fast Car” – Tracy Chapman
Speech-dominant, emotionally clear, and very singable.
Great for lessons, gigs, and winter open mics. Timeless and great storytelling.
10. “Songbird” – Fleetwood Mac
Short, sweet, and gentle.
Perfect for rebuilding confidence when your voice feels off.
11. “Make You Feel My Love” – Bob Dylan / Adele
Choose a comfortable key for you, and keep it intimate. Adele showed she could do that so well when she covered it.
This song rewards restraint.
12. “Warm This Winter” – Gabriella Cilmi
Playful, upbeat, super fun, and surprisingly singer-friendly!
Sits nicely in the middle range and works great for pop voices who want something seasonal without going full carol. Kylie Minogue’s version is wonderful,too!
13. “My Favorite Things” – The Sound of Music
Yes, it counts — if you sing a relaxed, swing-influenced or jazz-leaning version.
Avoid the Broadway soprano approach unless that’s truly your lane. Lower key = instant win. I love the jazzy arrangements of this!
Vocal Molly Pro Tips for Winter Singing
- Lower the key. Always.
- Warm up gently — winter voices need coaxing, maybe a little more than usual!
- If it feels too dramatic, pull it back 20%.
- Hydration > heroics.
- The mic is your friend. Let it work for you, it’s ok!
Final Thought
Winter singing doesn’t have to be about impressing with vocal fireworks.
It’s about clarity, honesty, and ease……authentic storytelling, and singing what you truly connect with.
If your song choice feels enjoyable to sing, your audience will most likely be right there with you.
And if you want help finding the right winter song for your voice?
That’s literally my job. Book a lesson with me now, I’d love to help!
Stay warm. Stay singing.