Christmas is the favorite holiday of many, and even if you’re someone like me who technically does not celebrate it, Christmas music is great. Even though there are numerous Christmas songs out there, here are some of my favorites that you should add to your playlist (even if you add them after the holiday!).
- "Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas" by Sam Smith-- There’s no denying that Sam Smith has one of the best voices out there. His songs never cease to amaze, and this piece is no exception.
- "Hallelujah" by Pentatonix-- This is by far my favorite Pentatonix song ever. The blend is amazing and each member shines with solo moments.
- "All I want For Christmas is You" by Mariah Carey-- Love her or hate her, there’s no denying that Mariah Carey is talented. This smash hit is by far the most successful Christmas song of all time and gets anyone into the Christmas spirit. It’s a must for any Christmas playlist.
- "Christmas Lights" by Coldplay-- This is a sad and fairly simple song, like many of Coldplay’s, but its simplicity makes it absolutely beautiful.
- "Santa Claus is Comin’ to Town" by Bruce Springsteen-- “The boss,” otherwise known as Bruce Springsteen is not called the boss for no reason. His take on "Santa Claus is Comin’ to Town" is fun and uplifting.
- "Run Run Rudolph" by Kelly Clarkson-- This awesome, upbeat song not only shows off Kelly Clarkson’s voice, but also makes you feel obliged to get out of your chair and start dancing. Who would not want that kind of song on their playlist?
- "8 Days of Christmas" by Destiny’s Child-- A unique take on the classic 12 Days of Christmas, Destiny’s Child’s take will make you wish your partner was as generous and loving as the singers’.
- "Ave Maria" by Beyoncé-- Even though this is not technically a Christmas song, it is often played around the holiday season. Check out Beyoncé’s version of this marvelous piece and prepare to be amazed by Queen B.
- "Mistletoe" by Colbie Caillat-- There’s just something about Colbie Caillat's voice that makes any song she sings marvelous and unique. This song is no exception.
- "Holly Jolly Christmas" by Michael Bublé-- Michael Buble’s deep, wonderful voice coupled with the beat of this tune will make you look forward to having a holly, jolly Christmas!
- "Snow in California" by Ariana Grande-- Ariana Grande is one of today’s best artists in my opinion due to her powerful voice, her astounding range, and her charisma that shines through her lyrics. I love all the intricacies and little ups and downs of this song. The title speaks to a wish that probably every Californian or more broadly anyone in general has for Christmas: that it will snow. Maybe if you listen to this song on Christmas, snow will fall?!
- "Merry Christmas Baby (2014 CMA Country Christmas Performance)" by Hunter Hayes-- This list would not be complete without some good country holiday music. Hunter Hayes’ version of this classic is fun and fantastic, with its upbeat beat that will put you in the holiday spirit instantaneously.
- "Merry Christmas Darling" by Christina Perri-- This slow and simple piece is great to listen to with the ones you love most. Perri reminds us that most of the power of Christmas comes from the time spent with our loved ones.
- "I’ll be Home" by Meghan Trainor-- Some people really dislike Meghan Trainor, but I think she really shines in this song. She perfectly captivates the excitement of coming home for the holidays, which I can certainly relate to.
- "Blue Christmas" by The Lumineers-- An alternative take on a Christmas classic, this tune is certainly not the most optimistic, but the raspiness of the main singer’s voice is what draws me to this song.
- "That’s Christmas to Me" by Pentatonix-- I am kind of an a cappella geek, but even so Pentatonix makes some of the best music out there. The blend in this song, especially at the beginning is fantastic and the lyrics truly highlight all the little things that make Christmas as magical as it is.
- "Mary, Did You Know? " by Pentatonix ft. The String Mob-- I can listen to this song over and over again and never get enough of it. The notes that each singer hits never cease to amaze. The String Mob version makes this song even better, with awesome background strings that add to the sheer power and force of it.
- "O Come, All Ye Faithful" by Pentatonix-- You might be starting to sense that I am a little obsessed with Pentatonix. What I love about their Christmas albums is they can take the most well known, cliché songs and make them magical. This is vividly illustrated in "O Come, All Ye Faithful," where the beat boxing and background vocals add flare to what many deem a boring Christmas song.
- "Man With The Bag" by Jessie J-- This upbeat tune has an amazing beat, not to mention stunning vocals by Jessie J. This song will make you super excited for the man with the bag to come on Christmas Day.
- "Feliz Navidad" by José Feliciano-- This classic is bound to make your Christmas brighter. ¡Feliz Navidad!