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10 Modern Christmas Songs That Should Be On Your Holiday Playlist

Even Ebenezer Scrooge would love these.

Briana Williams

Dec 19, 2016

University of Louisville

6658

10 Modern Christmas Songs That Should Be On Your Holiday Playlist

Youtube

Christmas music has been around for ages. It’s what separates late November and December from all the other months. Most people know the classics that have been around for decades, but modern artists are adding to the holiday music scene. Whether it’s a cool cover of an old hit or a brand new classic, today’s artists are making sure to continue the holiday spirit. Here’s a list of Christmas songs from the start of the decade that will put any scrooge in a festive mood.

1. “All I Want For Christmas Is You (SuperFestive!)” by Justin Bieber feat. Mariah Carey

Mariah Carey is basically the queen of holiday hits, but there’s nothing wrong with adding a twist to a classic song. That’s exactly what Justin Bieber did when he released this song. It’s jumpier, faster, and—as the title states—super festive.

2. “You’re A Mean One, Mr. Grinch” by Jordan Smith

I live in Louisville, so I guess I’m somewhat biased towards Kentucky native, Jordan Smith. However, this is an amazing cover of another classic Christmas song. Jordan Smith adds flare and a little sass to this song and it gets me hype every time I listen to it.

3. “Winter Things” by Ariana Grande

For those who are missing the summer time, this song pays homage to Christmas while still giving off a summer vibe. Ariana Grande laments the fact that it’s not cold, but insists that she’s still going to do some winter things. It doesn’t sound like the traditional Christmas song, but its good vibes and merry sound make it worthy of a spot in your playlist.

4. “Mistletoe” by Justin Bieber

Justin Bieber knows how to make a good Christmas song. "Mistletoe" is a mid-tempo song with a relaxed melody that you’ll learn the words to easily. This song is a few years old, so Bieber’s voice sounds pretty different from today, but it’s still great regardless. The tune is modern, but the song itself is focused on an idea that’s been sung about for years: love during Christmas.

5. “That’s Christmas To Me” by Pentatonix

If Mariah Carey is the queen of Christmas music, Pentatonix are the princes and princesses. They’ve made three holiday albums so far, and each one exhibits the clear talent the group has. Frankly, every song on all of their albums should be on a playlist, but if you have to pick one, "That’s Christmas To Me" is the one to pick. Their harmonies are mystical and their voices send you into a paradise that reminds you of the true spirit and meaning of Christmas.

6. “One More Sleep” by Leona Lewis

Leona Lewis is more popular in the UK than in the US, but her talent can’t be denied by anyone. She’s got a beautiful voice and it shines on this track. It’s got the traditional elements that lots of Christmas songs have, but Leona’s smooth voice and the song’s quick, cheerful pace is what makes it a standout among modern Christmas hits.

7. “Underneath The Tree” by Kelly Clarkson

If you aren’t already in the Christmas spirit, the song will pretty much force you into it. A rush of Kelly Clarkson’s cheerful voice starts the song off and the upbeat tempo backs her up. Kelly Clarkson’s entire Christmas album, “Wrapped in Red” is good and there are other songs that definitely deserve a listen, but this is by far the best on the album.

8. “Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas” by Sam Smith

Sam Smith has vocals that should be admired on any song, but he outdoes himself on this one. He sings with soul that is clearly heard within the song. Even though this is a cover of a very old Christmas song, Sam makes this song his own.

9. “Christmas Lights” by Coldplay

I’m somewhat obsessed with Coldplay and have been for many years now. And while I always have a hard time picking my favorite songs by them, Christmas Lights always makes the cut. It’s the perfect song to listen to as you stroll around town looking at Christmas lights (duh). It starts off slow, but ends in a stellar composition that you can’t help but smile at.

10. “Hallelujah” by Pentatonix

Not surprising, I couldn’t only have one Pentatonix song on this list. You’ll probably remember this song from the movie Shrek, but Pentatonix has done the newest cover of it in a beautiful way. Again, their harmonies are fantastic and they sing this song elegantly. Honestly, I’m just going to unofficially add all of Pentatonix’s holiday albums to this list because they are slaying the Christmas game.

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