Christmas, a season synonymous with joy, traditions, and a unique sense of wonder, wouldn’t be complete without its soundtrack. Beyond the festive decorations and heartwarming gatherings, music plays a pivotal role in setting the holiday mood. This curated Christmas Songs List features 40 timeless tracks, designed to be the perfect backdrop to your celebrations. From legendary voices like Bing Crosby and Mariah Carey to the iconic Elvis Presley and Nat King Cole, this collection spans genres and generations, offering a rich tapestry of holiday sounds.
Discover the Best Christmas Songs for Your Holiday Playlist
This list of Christmas songs journeys through time, starting with beloved 19th-century carols and culminating in the pop and rock anthems that define modern holiday cheer. Each selection has been carefully chosen for its enduring popularity, cultural impact, and ability to evoke the magic of Christmas. Whether your preference leans towards classic Christmas songs, contemporary hits, or genre-bending festive tunes, this list promises something for every taste, ensuring your “christmas songs list” is complete and captivating.
40. “Baby It’s Cold Outside” — Dean Martin (1949)
Dean Martin’s rendition of “Baby It’s Cold Outside,” featuring playful exchanges with Marilyn Maxwell, is a quintessential Christmas flirtation set to music. This classic track, dating back to 1949, captures a humorous and engaging dialogue between two characters navigating the push and pull of a chilly evening. Martin’s suave delivery and Maxwell’s coy responses create a delightful tension, blending mock reluctance with undeniable holiday charm. It’s a lighthearted addition to any christmas songs list, showcasing the lighter side of holiday interactions.
39. “This Christmas” — Chris Brown (2007)
Chris Brown’s 2007 interpretation of “This Christmas” injects a fresh, contemporary energy into a beloved holiday standard. By infusing Donny Hathaway’s soulful 1970 original with modern R&B sensibilities, Brown creates a version that resonates with a new generation while honoring the song’s rich heritage. His youthful vocals at the time, brimming with raw talent, add a unique charm, bridging the gap between classic soul and contemporary R&B. This rendition confidently earns its place among modern christmas songs, demonstrating the timeless appeal of holiday classics reimagined.
38. “Hard Candy Christmas” — Dolly Parton (1982)
Dolly Parton’s “Hard Candy Christmas,” a poignant country ballad from the musical The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas, offers a different shade of holiday emotion. This song transcends typical Christmas themes, reaching out to anyone experiencing hardship, especially during the festive season. Parton’s storytelling prowess shines through, delivering a bittersweet message of resilience and hope. It’s a reminder that christmas songs can also provide solace and understanding during challenging times, making it a deeply resonant inclusion in this list.
37. “Grandma Got Run Over by a Reindeer” — Elmo & Patsy (1979)
Elmo & Patsy’s “Grandma Got Run Over by a Reindeer” injects a dose of quirky humor into the traditional christmas songs landscape. While not a typical heartwarming carol, this 1979 novelty hit brings lighthearted fun to the holiday season with its comical narrative and campy charm. It’s a playful reminder that christmas songs can also be delightfully absurd and entertaining, offering a break from the more sentimental tunes. This track proves that festive music can embrace humor and still become a cherished part of holiday playlists.
36. “Santa Baby” — Eartha Kitt (1953)
Eartha Kitt’s “Santa Baby” is a sultry and playful wish list directed at St. Nick, a cross-genre holiday favorite since 1953. Its jazzy flair and cheeky tone set it apart, making it a standout track that many artists have attempted to cover, often without replicating the original’s unique magic. “Santa Baby” has evolved into a cultural icon, an enduring christmas song that continues to captivate with its sophisticated charm and timeless appeal.
35. “Wonderful Christmastime” — Paul McCartney (1979)
Paul McCartney’s “Wonderful Christmastime,” released in 1979, is a cheerful pop-rock anthem with simple, upbeat lyrics and an instantly catchy melody. McCartney’s infectious joy permeates the track, making it an essential addition to any christmas holiday playlist. Drawing on his legendary songwriting skills honed with The Beatles, McCartney crafts a holiday song that is both timeless and uniquely his, capturing the essence of festive cheer in a memorable pop package.
34. “Holly Jolly Christmas” — Burl Ives (1964)
Burl Ives’ “Holly Jolly Christmas” is a quintessential traditional pop song that no christmas playlist is complete without. Popularized by the 1964 TV special Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer, this song has become synonymous with the warmth and nostalgia of the season. Its feel-good essence and evergreen appeal solidify its place as one of the best classic christmas songs, radiating holiday cheer with every play.
33. “Do They Know It’s Christmas?” — Band Aid (1984)
Band Aid’s “Do They Know It’s Christmas?” is a heartwarming example of celebrity collaboration for a charitable cause. This 1984 song, featuring some of the biggest stars of the 1980s like Bono and George Michael, was created to raise funds for Ethiopian famine relief. Written by Bob Geldof and Midge Ure, its earnest message and iconic chorus have made it a lasting favorite, blending holiday spirit with a powerful call for global compassion and social awareness within christmas songs.
32. “Run Rudolph Run” — Chuck Berry (1958)
Chuck Berry’s “Run Rudolph Run” brings the electrifying energy of rock ‘n’ roll to the holiday season. This high-octane 1958 rock christmas anthem, powered by Berry’s signature guitar riffs, injects life into any holiday gathering. Its catchy, upbeat rhythm and raw energy make it a standout track, showcasing Berry’s pioneering influence on rock music while adding a festive twist to the genre.
31. “Feliz Navidad” — José Feliciano (1970)
José Feliciano’s “Feliz Navidad” is a unique blend of Latin pop and Spanish lyrics that became an unexpected smash hit in 1970. This bilingual holiday anthem transcends cultural boundaries, becoming a global christmas song beloved across languages and cultures. Its infectious rhythm and simple yet heartfelt lyrics have contributed to its status as one of the most universally enjoyed christmas songs worldwide.
30. “Last Christmas” — Wham! (1984)
Wham!’s “Last Christmas,” a synth-heavy ballad of holiday heartbreak from 1984, is instantly recognizable thanks to George Michael’s distinctive vocals. This song has risen to become a modern holiday classic, defining Wham! beyond their other pop hits. Its layered production, shimmering synths, and poignant lyrics about love and loss during the festive season solidify its place as a perennial favorite on any christmas playlist.
29. “Silver Bells” — Bing Crosby & Carol Richards (1950)
Bing Crosby and Carol Richards’ rendition of “Silver Bells” paints a vivid picture of urban holiday life. From bustling streets adorned with lights to the sounds of carolers and the crisp winter air, this 1950 recording evokes a nostalgic and timeless Christmas atmosphere. The Crosby-Richards pairing adds warmth and familiarity, making it a christmas song that resonates with listeners of all ages. Its evocative imagery and gentle melody have cemented its status as a central holiday anthem for over seven decades.
28. “Little Drummer Boy” — Bing Crosby & David Bowie (1977)
Bing Crosby’s unexpected duet with David Bowie on “Little Drummer Boy” is a fascinating moment in christmas music history. Initially met with some skepticism, this 1977 collaboration has since gained iconic status. Crosby and Bowie, two seemingly disparate musical icons, created a unique and beautiful reminder of music’s unifying power, even during the holiday season. Originally performed on Crosby’s holiday TV special, this duet quickly became a christmas classic.
27. “All I Want for Christmas Is You” — Vince Vance & The Valiants (1989)
Vince Vance & The Valiants’ 1989 “All I Want for Christmas Is You” predates Mariah Carey’s megahit and offers a country-infused take on holiday romance. This version, with its lyrical charm, steel guitars, and gentle percussion, taps into the universal desire for love and connection during the festive season. It’s a unique entry in the realm of christmas songs, highlighting the theme of seeking love amidst holiday cheer.
26. “Jingle Bell Rock” — Bobby Helms (1957)
Bobby Helms’ “Jingle Bell Rock” is a masterful blend of holiday cheer and classic rock ‘n’ roll, a festive staple since its 1957 debut. Its upbeat tempo and playful lyrics brought a fresh energy to holiday music, paving the way for genre-bending christmas songs. It stands as one of the first rock-infused Christmas tracks to bridge traditional carols and modern sounds, creating a timeless anthem that continues to dominate holiday playlists.
25. “Christmas (Baby Please Come Home)” — Darlene Love (1963)
Darlene Love’s powerful “Christmas (Baby Please Come Home)” stands apart with its dramatic urgency, resonating deeply with anyone experiencing holiday heartbreak. Released in 1963 on Phil Spector’s A Christmas Gift for You album, this song quickly became an anthem of longing, heartache, and hope during the festive season. The dynamic interplay of strings, percussion, and bells, combined with Love’s soaring vocals, creates a memorable christmas song experience, capturing the ache of separation during a time meant for togetherness.
24. “Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer” — Gene Autry (1949)
Gene Autry’s cheerful rendition of “Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer” is a cornerstone of christmas lore. This 1949 release transformed the storybook character into a globally adored holiday anthem. “Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer” became a chart-topper, solidifying Autry’s legacy as a pioneer of holiday music and ensuring its place among essential christmas songs for generations.
23. “Mary, Did You Know?” — Pentatonix (2014)
Pentatonix’s acapella version of “Mary, Did You Know?” breathes new life into this modern carol with their vocal brilliance. Released in 2014, their rendition strips away traditional instrumentation, creating a rich and textured soundscape purely with voices. This version emphasizes the song’s reflective core, highlighting themes of hope, peace, and spiritual wonder, making it a powerful and moving addition to contemporary christmas songs.
22. “Blue Christmas” — Elvis Presley (1957)
Elvis Presley’s iconic crooning transforms holiday heartbreak into a captivating listening experience with “Blue Christmas.” Released in 1957, this song captures the melancholic side of the holiday season, resonating with feelings of loneliness and unrequited love during a time of supposed joy. Its blend of country and blues, infused with Elvis’s charismatic vocals, makes it a standout christmas song that explores the complexities of holiday emotions.
21. “White Christmas” — The Drifters (1954)
The Drifters’ doo-wop version of “White Christmas” offers a playful, jazzy twist on Bing Crosby’s classic. Released in 1954, this rendition infuses the familiar tune with a mellow, fun, and colorful vibe. Lead singer Clyde McPhatter’s smooth tenor and Bill Pinkney’s rich bassline elevate the arrangement, bringing a distinct R&B flavor to a beloved christmas song and creating a refreshing take on a holiday standard.
20. “Happy Xmas (War Is Over)” — John Lennon & Yoko Ono (1971)
John Lennon and Yoko Ono’s “Happy Xmas (War Is Over)” is more than just a christmas song; it’s a peace anthem. This 1971 acoustic-driven track calls for global unity and understanding, reminding listeners of the true spirit of the holiday season – kindness, empathy, and the shared hope for a better future. Its message of peace and goodwill makes it a profoundly relevant and impactful christmas song, particularly in times of conflict.
19. “The Christmas Song (Chestnuts Roasting on an Open Fire)” — Nat King Cole (1946)
Nat King Cole’s voice elevates “The Christmas Song (Chestnuts Roasting on an Open Fire)” to the epitome of holiday elegance. This timeless 1946 recording has become synonymous with Christmas coziness. Few christmas songs capture the warmth of the season as perfectly, with its vivid imagery of chestnuts roasting, yuletide carols, and children’s holiday excitement. Cole’s velvety vocals make it an enduring classic.
18. “Let It Snow! Let It Snow! Let It Snow!” — Vaughn Monroe (1945)
Vaughn Monroe’s “Let It Snow! Let It Snow! Let It Snow!” captures the romantic side of the holidays. This 1945 classic, written by Sammy Cahn and Jule Styne, evokes images of warm firesides, falling snow, and the joy of indoor coziness with a loved one. Its cheerful lyrics and catchy swing tempo, combined with big-band orchestration, make it a lively and essential christmas song for decades.
17. “Frosty the Snowman” — Gene Autry (1950)
Gene Autry returns to this list with “Frosty the Snowman,” another cheerful christmas song that cemented his role in holiday music. This 1950 track tells the whimsical story of Frosty, brought to life by a magical hat, spreading joy before melting away. Its playful, family-friendly storytelling and upbeat melody make it a central part of holiday traditions, especially for children’s christmas songs playlists.
16. “8 Days of Christmas” — Destiny’s Child (2001)
Destiny’s Child’s “8 Days of Christmas” puts a modern, glamorous spin on holiday gifting. Released in 2001, this song swaps traditional gifts for designer items, reflecting the group’s signature confidence and style. It showcases Destiny’s Child’s knack for blending romance and empowerment within a festive context, creating a unique and contemporary christmas song.
15. “O Holy Night” — Adolphe Adam, Rolando Villazón and Xavier de Maistre (1847)
“O Holy Night” is a timeless carol that inspires awe and wonder, a centerpiece of many holiday performances. Originally composed in 1847 by Adolphe Adam, this carol has become a focal point of the Christmas season. While many artists have interpreted it, versions by Celine Dion and Josh Groban are particularly noted for their emotional depth and vocal delivery, solidifying “O Holy Night” as a powerful and moving christmas song.
14. “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas” — Judy Garland (1944)
Judy Garland’s “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas,” introduced in the 1944 film Meet Me in St. Louis, became a tender anthem for finding peace amidst hardship. Garland’s emotional delivery transformed this song into a message of hope and resilience. Originally written by Hugh Martin and Ralph Blane, it was softened at Garland’s request to resonate with families facing challenges, particularly during World War II, making it a deeply meaningful christmas song of its era.
13. “It Feels Like Christmas” — The Muppets (1992)
“It Feels Like Christmas,” performed by The Muppets in their 1992 film The Muppet Christmas Carol, is a heartwarming and wholesome singalong. Written by Paul Williams, the song’s simple message, “wherever you find love, it feels like Christmas,” resonates with authenticity. This Muppet-led track is a family-friendly christmas song that emphasizes the true spirit of the season – love and togetherness.
12. “Someday at Christmas” — Stevie Wonder (1966)
Stevie Wonder’s “Someday at Christmas” uses his soulful voice to convey a message of peace and hope. Released in 1966 in response to the Vietnam War, this song advocates for peace and an end to conflict. Wonder’s signature soulful style infuses the song with depth and sincerity, making “Someday at Christmas” a timeless and relevant christmas song with a powerful message of peace.
11. “Deck the Halls” — Thomas Oliphant (1862)
“Deck the Halls” is a vintage christmas song, widely sung today, with origins tracing back to a 16th-century Welsh melody, “Nos Galan.” Evolving over centuries, it combines a lively, festive tune with lyrics that celebrate the season. Its joyful energy and repetitive “fa-la-la” chorus make it a reliable choice for holiday gatherings, cementing its appeal as one of the oldest and most enduring christmas songs in the holiday music canon.
10. “It’s Beginning to Look a Lot Like Christmas” — Michael Bublé (2011)
Michael Bublé’s 2011 rendition of “It’s Beginning to Look a Lot Like Christmas” evokes the warmth of a fireplace and a mug of cocoa. Originally written in 1951 by Meredith Willson and performed by legends like Bing Crosby and Perry Como, Bublé’s version has become a go-to for holiday nostalgia. His sophisticated take slows the tempo slightly, inviting listeners to savor the song’s wintry charm, making it a modern classic among christmas songs.
9. “Jingle Bells” — James Lord Pierpont (1857)
“Jingle Bells” is a foundational christmas song, with lyrics rooted in 19th-century New England imagery. While seemingly simple, this 1857 composition about a sleigh ride has come to represent the broader holiday spirit and the joy of shared traditions across generations. Its enduring jingle remains timeless, undiminished by trends, making it a universally recognized christmas song.
8. “Santa Claus Is Coming to Town” — Bruce Springsteen (1982)
Bruce Springsteen’s cover of “Santa Claus Is Coming to Town” is a live-wire performance that captures the raw energy of a Christmas party. Recorded at a 1975 concert and released in 1982, Springsteen’s gritty interpretation infuses the holiday classic with rock ‘n’ roll energy. His version portrays Santa through a Jersey lens, with unpolished charm, making it a unique and spirited christmas song rendition.
7. “O Christmas Tree” — Tony Bennett (1968)
Tony Bennett’s version of “O Christmas Tree,” from his 1968 Snowfall: The Tony Bennett Christmas Album, transforms a simple carol into a work of art. Bennett’s phrasing and understated elegance lend a reverence to the traditional German carol “O Tannenbaum.” His delicate balance of intimacy and sophistication elevates the song beyond holiday excitement, portraying the Christmas tree as a symbol of tradition and holiday memories, making it a refined christmas song choice.
6. “This Christmas” — Donny Hathaway (1970)
Donny Hathaway’s “This Christmas,” released in 1970, is a gold standard for modern holiday music. From the opening horn riff, Hathaway leads listeners into a world of charm, joy, and warmth. This soulful anthem celebrates the season while emphasizing human connection. Its swaggering horns, grooving rhythm, and uplifting backing vocals make it a quintessential christmas song that radiates joy and festive spirit.
5. “Zat You, Santa Claus?”— Louis Armstrong (1953)
Louis Armstrong’s “Zat You, Santa Claus?” dares to be different among christmas songs. Released in 1953, it’s cheeky, slightly edgy, yet undeniably charming. Armstrong’s blend of whimsy, humor, and charisma creates a track that is both festive and effortlessly cool. His gravelly voice teeters between playful suspicion and delight, making it a uniquely engaging and cool christmas song.
4. “Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree” — Brenda Lee (1958)
Brenda Lee’s “Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree” is a burst of energy that has become a centerpiece of holiday celebrations since 1958. Recorded when Lee was just 13, the song exudes youthful playfulness and perfectly captures the spirit of a holiday party. Its blend of rockabilly and traditional holiday cheer creates a timeless and effortlessly cool christmas song, beloved across generations.
3. “Christmas Lights” — Coldplay (2011)
Coldplay’s “Christmas Lights,” released in 2011, is characteristically lush, cinematic, and emotionally charged. The song builds with Coldplay’s signature sound, with swelling strings and an expansive arrangement. Avoiding saccharine cheer, it opts for a raw, human approach to holiday emotions. The soaring chorus, with its plea for Christmas lights to “keep shining on,” captures a universal hope, making it a poignant and contemporary christmas song.
2. “All I Want for Christmas Is You” — Mariah Carey (1994)
Mariah Carey’s “All I Want for Christmas Is You” is undeniably the most iconic modern christmas song on this list. Since its 1994 release, it has become a fixture of the holidays, an omnipresent anthem that signals the start of Christmastime. Carey’s vocal powerhouse delivery, with seamless runs and crystalline tone, has made this song a festive juggernaut, arguably the crown jewel of contemporary christmas music.
1. “It’s the Most Wonderful Time of the Year” — Andy Williams (1963)
Andy Williams’ “It’s the Most Wonderful Time of the Year” perfectly encapsulates festive music. This 1963 release, with its buoyant rhythm, rich orchestration, and Williams’ smooth vocals, is the ultimate christmas classic. Initially not immediately recognized as a classic, it has become a beloved holiday favorite, played everywhere during the season. Its energetic and joyful vibe makes it the perfect soundtrack for holiday activities, truly defining the sound of Christmas and topping this christmas songs list.
Bottom Line
This list of 40 christmas classics, ranging from traditional carols to modern hits, captures the heart of the holiday season. Featuring icons like Bing Crosby, Mariah Carey, and Donny Hathaway, these songs blend nostalgia, joy, and festivity, ensuring a memorable Christmas soundtrack. Whether you prefer classic carols or contemporary reimaginings, this “christmas songs list” provides a diverse and enriching holiday musical experience.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What Are Great Country Christmas Songs?
“Christmas in Dixie” – Alabama (1982)
Released in 1982, “Christmas in Dixie” from Alabama’s 1985 album Alabama Christmas captures the warmth of Southern Christmas traditions, evoking a sense of home and heartfelt holiday spirit within country christmas songs.
“Hard Candy Christmas” – Dolly Parton (1982)
Originally from The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas, Dolly Parton’s “Hard Candy Christmas” transcends typical carols with its powerful storytelling and emotional depth, resonating as a poignant and relatable country christmas song.
What Are Great Rock Christmas Songs?
“Happy Xmas (War Is Over)” – John Lennon & Yoko Ono (1971)
John Lennon & Yoko Ono’s “Happy Xmas (War Is Over)” is more than a christmas song; it’s a rock-infused peace anthem advocating for harmony and inclusion, making it a timeless and meaningful rock christmas song.
What Are Great Christmas Albums?
‘Merry Christmas” – Mariah Carey (1994)
Mariah Carey’s Merry Christmas album, released in 1994, has become a landmark holiday release. Featuring the iconic “All I Want for Christmas Is You,” this album blends original tracks with reimagined classics like “O Holy Night,” making it a beloved and essential christmas album for over two decades.
