10 Best Songs With The Word 'Cold' In The Title

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Crafting a list around the theme of “cold” provides a fascinating glimpse into the emotional and creative range of rock and roll. The word itself, often associated with detachment, bitterness, or even introspection, has inspired some of the most memorable songs across decades of music. From heartbreak and fury to cool confidence and dark humor, these tracks show how the concept of “cold” can take on a life of its own in rock music. The following list of 10 songs explores these varied interpretations, spotlighting how artists have imbued the word with intense meaning while showcasing their unique styles and talents.

# 10 – Cold Cold Heart – Elton John And Dua Lipa

“Cold Cold Heart,” a standout collaboration between Elton John and Dua Lipa, revitalizes several of John’s classic songs through the lens of modern dance music, blending nostalgia with contemporary appeal. This unique track, remixed by Pnau, is a creative fusion of John’s iconic works, including “Sacrifice” and “Rocket Man,” layered with Lipa’s sleek and modern vocals. Released on August 13, 2021, the track is featured on Elton John’s The Lockdown Sessions, an album recorded during the COVID-19 pandemic. It was co-produced by Elton John and the Australian electronic trio Pnau, who had previously collaborated with John on the 2012 album Good Morning to the Night. The song was crafted in a mix of studios due to pandemic restrictions, reflecting the adaptability of modern music production.

Read More: Top 10 Dua Lipa Songs

# 9 – Warm Beer And Cold Woman – Tom Waits

“Warm Beer and Cold Women,” a track from Tom Waits’ Nighthawks at the Diner, captures the essence of late-night melancholy and the heartache of a man lost in a haze of smoky bars and regret. Released in 1975, this album was recorded live over four sessions at the Record Plant Studios in Los Angeles, California, mimicking the ambiance of a jazz club. Waits collaborated with producer Bones Howe, and the live band, which included Mike Melvoin on piano, Jim Hughart on bass, and Frank Severino on drums, brought an improvisational energy to the recording. The song is steeped in a bluesy, after-hours atmosphere, perfectly complemented by Waits’ gravelly voice and poetic lyricism.

# 8 – Hot Love, Cold World – Bob Welch

Who doesn’t love the music of the late Bob Welch? “Hot Love, Cold World” from Bob Welch’s French Kiss album was released in 1977. French Kiss marked Welch’s transition from Fleetwood Mac guitarist to a solo artist, and this track exemplifies the shimmering production and melodic sophistication that defined the album. Recorded at Sunset Sound Recorders and Producer’s Workshop in Los Angeles, the album was co-produced by Welch and John Carter. The lineup included notable musicians such as guitarist Waddy Wachtel, bassist David Adelstein, and drummer Alvin Taylor, whose contributions imbue the song with a vibrant yet bittersweet energy.

Read More: Top 10 Bob Welch Songs

# 7 – Cold Shot – Stevie Ray Vaughan & Double Trouble

Couldn t Stand The Weather (Legacy Edition)

“Cold Shot,” a centerpiece from Stevie Ray Vaughan & Double Trouble’s seminal Couldn’t Stand the Weather album, is a masterclass in blues storytelling and guitar-driven emotion. Released in 1984, this track reflects the fiery yet intricate interplay that defined Vaughan’s signature style. Recorded at the Power Station in New York City and produced by Richard Mullen and Stevie Ray Vaughan, the album cemented the band’s place in the pantheon of blues-rock icons. Featuring Tommy Shannon on bass, Chris Layton on drums, and Reese Wynans on keyboards.

Read More: Top 10 Stevie Ray Vaughan Songs

# 6 – Cold Ethyl—Alice Cooper

Welcome To My Nightmare (Expanded And Remastered)

“Cold Ethyl” is one of the darker, more theatrical tracks from Alice Cooper’s groundbreaking 1975 album Welcome to My Nightmare. Produced by Bob Ezrin and recorded in Toronto at Soundstage and Nimbus 9 Studios, the song exemplifies Cooper’s talent for blending macabre humor with rock and roll energy. The album was a concept piece that explored themes of nightmares, and “Cold Ethyl” fits seamlessly into its surreal landscape. The band on this track featured an elite lineup, including guitarists Steve Hunter and Dick Wagner, bassist Prakash John, drummer Whitey Glan, and Ezrin himself contributing on keyboards.

# 5 – James and the Cold Gun – Kate Bush

Kate Bush The Kick Inside Original EMI Records (Debut) Stereo release SW 17003 1970's Female Vocal Vinyl (1978)

“James and the Cold Gun” is a stirring and theatrical track from Kate Bush’s 1978 debut album, The Kick Inside. Produced by Andrew Powell and recorded at AIR Studios in London, the song showcases Bush’s dynamic vocal range and her ability to craft compelling narratives within a song structure. Featuring a driving rock arrangement, it diverges from much of the album’s ethereal tone, leaning heavily into raw energy and storytelling. Musicians contributing to the track include Alan Parker on guitar, David Paton on bass, and Stuart Elliott on drums, all of whom brought a robust foundation to Bush’s vivid songwriting.

Read More: Top 10 Kate Bush Songs

# 4 – Cold Gin – Kiss

“Cold Gin,” one of the most iconic tracks from KISS’s 1974 self-titled debut album, is a hard-rock anthem that encapsulates the raw, gritty energy that defined the band in their early years. Written by lead guitarist Ace Frehley but sung by bassist Gene Simmons, the song delivers a story of desperation and the temporary solace found in a bottle of gin. Despite Frehley’s reluctance to take on lead vocals early in his career, Simmons’s powerful delivery complements the track’s dark themes and driving rhythm.

# 3 – Stone Cold Crazy – Queen

“Stone Cold Crazy,” featured on Queen’s 1974 album Sheer Heart Attack, is often heralded as one of the earliest precursors to the speed metal genre, showcasing the band’s ability to innovate within rock music. This high-energy track is a frenetic burst of riffs, blistering tempo, and biting lyrics that capture a chaotic, almost anarchic vibe. Written collaboratively by all four members of Queen—Freddie Mercury, Brian May, John Deacon, and Roger Taylor, the song embodies the band’s creative synergy and fearless experimentation.

# 2 – Cold Sweat – Thin Lizzy

“Cold Sweat,” a cornerstone of Thin Lizzy’s 1983 album Thunder and Lightning, exemplifies the band’s late-era hard rock brilliance. The track features an aggressive edge, driven by an explosive riff and a dynamic interplay of energy and attitude that encapsulates Thin Lizzy’s signature sound. Co-written by Phil Lynott and guitarist John Sykes, the song captures a raw intensity, reflecting the band’s revitalized sound as they embraced heavier influences in their final studio album.

# 1 – Cold As Ice – Foreigner

“Cold as Ice” serves as the perfect closer for this list, solidifying Foreigner’s place in rock history with its dramatic flair and unforgettable hook. Featured on their self-titled 1977 debut album, Foreigner, the track exemplifies the band’s talent for blending melodic rock with biting emotional intensity. Written by Lou Gramm and Mick Jones, the song became one of their most enduring hits, a staple of classic rock radio that continues to resonate with audiences decades later.

Read More: 10 Most Rocking Foreigner Songs