Whether I am studying, straightening up my room, or just relaxing, listening to music is always something that has kept me company. Snow and icy winter conditions often entail days spent at home and boredom piling up. Here are a few songs perfect for a cozy winter day at home. 

“WINTERGLOW” – GRANT-LEE PHILLIPS

‘Winterglow” is a single that was released in 2008. Fans of the show Gilmore Girls may remember Grant-Lee Phillips when he played Stars Hollow’s town troubadour. This song reflects on all the beautiful parts of winter, which are often overlooked. 

My favorite lyric:

“When the blue light of the moon

Is giving off a loving winterglow.”

“BLUE COUPE” – TWIN PEAKS

Twin Peaks is a band from Chicago, Ill. and most of their songs are in the alternative/indie genre. 

“I have been a fan of Twin Peaks for a while. I never get sick of their songs, and I always find myself listening to them on repeat,” said Amanda McLaughlin, junior. 

“Blue Coupe” is a single from the band’s compilation album called Sweet ‘17 Singles. Twin Peaks’ music is great for the heart and mind.

Having reliable playlists is something that helps many students study and focus on their academics. During the winter this is especially true, when countless hours are spent inside rather than outside.

“I love making new playlists every month to keep myself distracted, especially when I’m feeling stressed out with school,” said Isabel Palo, junior.

“HARVEY” – HER’S 

The song “Harvey” was released on July 5, 2018, and it recounts a story of friendship between a man and his invisible rabbit. The song was inspired by the film Harvey, which came out in 1950. The band originated from England, and “Harvey” is from their second album, which is labeled Invitation to Her’s. This song is catchy and upbeat, and will be stuck in your head all day. This is the perfect song to listen to during a snow day.

“NO SURPRISES” – RADIOHEAD

Radiohead is a rock band that was formed in 1985. The first time I heard “No Surprises” was on TikTok, and I added it to my playlist immediately. While the band has a reputation for having somber songs, all the lyrics are very well written. “No Surprises” has a gloomy tone and pairs well with a frosty mug and a warm blanket..

“FACE TO FACE” – REX ORANGE COUNTY

In 2015, singer Rex Orange County gained a great deal of attention from his first album, Bcos U Will Never B Free. This album was self-released, and he went on to record many more. Rex Orange County’s new album, Who Cares? will be released on March 11, 2022. I have been a fan of this artist for years, and his songs have never disappointed me. 

“ALL TOO WELL (10 Minute Version) (Taylor’s Version) (From The Vault)” – TAYLOR SWIFT

Taylor Swift’s new album, Red (Taylor’s Version,) was released on November 12, 2021, and is adored by Swifties all over the world. While all of her albums are special, Red (Taylor’s Version) consists of songs that are re-recorded. This is not the first time Swift has released a re-recorded album, 

My favorite lyric: 

“I still remember the first fall of snow

And how it glistened as it fell

I remember it all too well.”

This song perfectly captures how watching snow feels; magical and unreal.

“THERE SHE GOES”– THE LA’S

Released in 1990, “There She Goes” is a timeless song that is loved by many generations. Every time I listen to this song, it gives me a lot of energy, due to the joyful vibes the lyrics radiate. If the weather is gloomy and negatively affecting your mood, this is the song to get you out of a funk. 

“BACK TO THE OLD HOUSE”– THE SMITHS

The Smiths were a rock band that released music from 1982- 1987. While the band has sadly split, their songs are forever classics. “Back to the Old House,” which is in the album Hatful of Hollow, is soothing and acts as great background noise for studying.

“Playing in an orchestra for years has trained me to always want some sort of background noise… music is very comforting to me, and I heavily depend on my playlists,” said Elizabeth Lahmann, sophomore and orchestra student. 

Lahmann likes to listen to music in her car and to help her fall asleep. 

With lots of chilly and snowy days ahead of us, it is a great time to curl up by the fire and enjoy some great music.