Christmas music has an uncanny ability to bring people together. Whether it’s nostalgic classics or modern-day hits, the songs of the season hold a special place in our hearts. Many of us grew up with certain tunes playing year after year, and they’ve come to define the holiday season. In this article, we’ll be diving into the top 18 best Christmas songs of all time, from tear-jerkers to upbeat jams. These songs have become timeless, evoking the perfect mix of holiday magic and memories. So, sit back, relax, and enjoy this festive musical countdown!
10. Christmas Wrapping – The Waitresses
A standout from the ’80s, Christmas Wrapping tells a fun, quirky holiday story that perfectly combines a bit of melancholy with holiday cheer. Its catchy guitar riff and upbeat brass make it a holiday classic for many. It’s a song that feels like a holiday movie in under five minutes, packed with wit and charm.
9. What Christmas Means to Me – Stevie Wonder
There’s no doubt that Stevie Wonder brings infectious joy to Christmas with this soul-infused hit. What Christmas Means to Me radiates warmth and love, with its lively horns, upbeat rhythm, and of course, Wonder’s unmatched voice. The song embodies everything wonderful about the holiday spirit—family, joy, and love. Plus, who could resist that harmonica solo?
8. All I Want for Christmas Is You – Kelly Clarkson
Not the Mariah Carey version—this gem comes from Kelly Clarkson, who brought her powerful vocal chops to this Vince Vance & The Valiants 1989 hit. While Carey’s rendition has dominated the holiday charts, Clarkson’s version stands as a shining, underrated cover. With her heartwarming vocals and festive instrumentation, this track is an instant classic.
7. It’s the Most Wonderful Time of the Year – Andy Williams
No Christmas is complete without the iconic It’s the Most Wonderful Time of the Year. Andy Williams’ smooth vocals and the song’s bright orchestration evoke that magical holiday feeling. Though often played on repeat in stores and radio stations, this song remains the quintessential holiday tune for many, capturing the joy, festivities, and togetherness of Christmas.
6. White Christmas – Bing Crosby
Often considered the most famous Christmas song of all time, White Christmas is full of nostalgia and timeless charm. With Bing Crosby’s warm voice painting a picture of a snowy Christmas day, this classic has captured the hearts of generations. Its peaceful mood and imagery make it the ultimate holiday standard, evoking a sense of calm and reflection.
5. Christmas Eve/Sarajevo 12/24 – Trans-Siberian Orchestra
If you want something epic, Christmas Eve/Sarajevo 12/24 by the Trans-Siberian Orchestra is the perfect high-energy holiday anthem. The mix of Carol of the Bells with electric guitars, powerful orchestration, and soaring vocals brings a fresh rock twist to classic Christmas tunes. It’s a bold and dramatic track that’s perfect for turning up the volume and rocking out during the holiday season.
4. All I Want for Christmas Is You – Mariah Carey
It wouldn’t be a true Christmas countdown without Mariah Carey’s All I Want for Christmas Is You. Released in 1994, this song has become an anthem of the holiday season, with its infectious melody and carefree vibe. From its catchy chorus to Mariah’s flawless high notes, it’s no wonder this song plays on repeat across the world every December. It’s a feel-good hit that simply embodies the Christmas spirit.
3. The Christmas Song (Merry Christmas To You) – Nat King Cole
The Christmas Song is one of those tracks that instantly conjures warm memories of Christmas. Nat King Cole’s velvet voice paired with the mellow piano and soft strings create a lullaby-like melody that feels like wrapping up in a cozy blanket. The line “Chestnuts roasting on an open fire” has become synonymous with Christmas for many people, and rightfully so.
2. Last Christmas – Wham!
This 1984 hit by Wham! is one of the best-loved Christmas songs that isn’t quite about Christmas cheer. Instead, Last Christmas tells a story of heartbreak during the holidays, making it the perfect power ballad for anyone who’s experienced a love lost. Its melancholy yet catchy rhythm and George Michael’s heartfelt performance make it an enduring holiday favorite.
1. Christmas Time Is Here – Vince Guaraldi Trio
The number one spot goes to Christmas Time Is Here by the Vince Guaraldi Trio. Known best from A Charlie Brown Christmas, this instrumental masterpiece encapsulates the pure essence of Christmas nostalgia. With its gentle piano and soothing melodies, this song creates a peaceful, reflective mood that evokes the beauty of the holiday season. Whether you’re snuggled up by the fireplace or reminiscing about past holidays, this song has an incomparable magic to it.
More songs you may like
“Santa Baby” – Ariana Grande
“Santa Claus Is Comin’ to Town” – Bruce Springsteen
“God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen” – Hozier
“O Holy Night” – Celine Dion
“Happy Xmas (War Is Over)” – Miley Cyrus and Mark Ronson
“Drummer Boy” – Justin Bieber
“What Christmas Means To Me” – John Legend
“Christmas (Baby Please Come Home)” – Mariah Carey
“Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas” – Kelly Clarkson
Conclusion
There you have it! The top 18 best Christmas songs of all time, each one bringing a unique flavor to the holiday season. From the joyous and cheerful to the reflective and melancholic, these tracks capture every emotion associated with Christmas. Whether you’re looking for something upbeat to get you in the festive mood or a slower, more intimate tune to accompany your holiday reflections, this list has something for every Christmas lover.
So, as you hang up the stockings and prepare for the holiday season, don’t forget to cue up these classics. They’re more than just songs; they’re the soundtrack to cherished holiday memories. Merry Christmas and happy listening!