It’s the most wonderful time of the year and that means it’s time to get a playlist going. Below are 20 of my favorite holiday songs that are required listening this season!
Jingle Bells by Frank Sinatra
Jingle Bells is a classic, but Frank Sinatra’s version, better known as J-I-N-G-L-E bells, has a fun twist that I love. This may be my favorite holiday song and I always look out for it on the radio.
Jingle Bells by Michael Bublé (ft. The Puppini Sisters)
Not to be repetitive, but this song is also a very unique rendition of Jingle Bells, thanks to The Puppini Sisters. Also, Michael Bublé has a wonderful voice for holiday music. Don’t be surprised if you see him a few more time on this list!
All I Want for Christmas Is You by Mariah Carey
As we all know, Mariah Carey determines when “it’s time” for the holidays. This song is a classic and somehow, no matter how many times I hear it, it never gets old. I give props to Mariah for making a song that doesn’t annoy me after it plays for the 50th time on the radio at my job.
Last Christmas by Wham!
Last Christmas is a true holiday classic with lyrics that exceed all other songs. Despite having Christmas in the title, this song is applicable year-round and is quite the earworm.
Sleigh Ride by The Ronettes
The Ronettes are absolute legends of holiday music, so they are a necessity to any holiday playlist. Their rendition of Sleigh Ride is very nostalgic to me, most likely because it was in some movie that gets played roughly 15 times every winter.
Underneath the Tree by Kelly Clarkson
Kelly Clarkson is also an icon of the holiday season and Underneath the Tree is a perfect example as to why. This song is so fun to sing along to and has become a holiday classic despite its recent release in 2013.
Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree by Brenda Lee
This song reminds me of cozying up in the living room watching Home Alone. It’s incredibly nostalgic and puts me in the holiday spirit easily. Also, Brenda Lee was only 14 when this song was released, which shocks me.
Christmas (Baby Please Come Home) by Darlene Love
Who hasn’t screamed the lyrics of this song at some point? It’s a great festive song with the required amount of heartbreak. Also, who can turn down a good saxophone solo?
The Christmas Song (Merry Christmas to You) by Nat “King” Cole
A majority of holiday music is typically jazz, and an absolute legend of that genre is Nat “King” Cole. This song, more recognizable by its opening line (chestnuts roasting on an open fire), is possibly the coziest holiday song in existence.
A Marshmallow World by Darlene Love
Darlene Love, once again makes an appearance. This song is a very fun and original holiday song filled with bubbly lyrics and music. In a way, I listen to this song to manifest a snowy winter season because North Carolina is severely lacking in “marshmallow”.
Carol of the Bells by John Williams
I was on the verge of excluding this song, only because the choir used to scare me when I was younger. Now, I think of Carol of the Bells as a staple in holiday music. It’s also in arguably the best Home Alone scene, so it has become pretty iconic
Mistletoe by Justin Bieber
Speaking of icons… Mistletoe is such a wonderfully original and early 2010s song. It has immeasurably good vibes and I can never pass up an opportunity to listen to baby Bieber.
Santa Tell Me by Ariana Grande
Another pop singer that successfully made some big holiday hits is Ariana. Santa Tell Me is a very fun and more recent holiday song that I consider very necessary for a playlist. Because most popular holiday songs are from before the 2000s, I consider recent hits to be especially impressive.
One More Sleep by Leona Lewis
Released in 2013, One More Sleep is another more recent holiday hit. It gives similar vibes to the twelve days of Christmas, counting down throughout the song. Even though it’s a romantic song, it reminds me of the anticipation for Christmas I had as a child.
(There’s No Place Like) Home for the Holidays by Perry Como
This song gets me into the holiday spirit because it points out the importance of being home with your family. With all of the business of the holiday season, it can be hard to focus on the time you get to spend out of school and with your family and friends. Perry speaks straight facts.
Linus and Lucy by Vince Guaraldi Trio
Who can resist the Peanuts? At least one piano song had to be included because they are all iconic. This song in particular reminds me of the last few days of school before winter break back in elementary.
You’re A Mean One, Mr. Grinch by Tyler, The Creator
Made for the most recent animated Grinch movie, this song is the newest song on my list. The original rendition of this song was always iconic and fun, but Tyler really stepped it up.
Drummer Boy by Justin Bieber (feat. Busta Rhymes)
Another baby Bieber song! His rendition of Drummer Boy is truly a wonder. It’s a very silly and upbeat remix of sorts that never fails to make me laugh. Definitely required for a holiday playlist. It also ends with Justin encouraging people to donate during the holiday season. Go off king.
It’s Beginning to Look a Lot like Christmas by Michael Bublé
Of course, more Michael Bublé. This song is definitely a holiday classic and for good reason. The orchestra in the opening of the song gives me visions of sugar plums and suddenly everything smells like peppermint and pine.
Christmas Tree Farm by Taylor Swift
This song, by far, gets stuck in my head the most out of every holiday song. I also adore an original song, considering that most artists cover previous holiday songs. Christmas Tree Farm is a cute and fun song that makes me want to go pick out a tree.
Click here to listen to this playlist on the UCL Teen Spotify!
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