Best Christmas Songs to Add to Your Holiday Playlist

Michael Bublé - “It’s Beginning to Look a Lot Like Christmas” (2011)

Michael Bublé’s rendition of this holiday classic is instantly recognizable. The upbeat jazz-infused arrangement brings the perfect touch of holiday cheer, and his smooth vocals create a timeless feel. The song paints a beautiful picture of the holiday season, as you imagine all things Micheal describes, from toys in every store to trees in the Grand Hotel and in the park as well!

Frank Sinatra - “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas” (1957)

Sinatra’s classic take on "Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas" brings a touch of elegance and nostalgia. Lyrics such as “Next year all our troubles will be out of sight” and “Faithful friends who are dear to us will be near to us once more” remind listeners of the love spread during Christmas time. With his velvety voice and smooth phrasing, Frank captures the warmth and coziness of the season.

Mariah Carey - “All I Want for Christmas Is You” (1994)

No holiday playlist is complete without Mariah Carey’s “All I Want for Christmas Is You.” Its upbeat, pop-sounding melody has made it a Christmas anthem. This inescapable hit spent 15 weeks atop the Billboard Hot 100, first peaking at #1 in 2019. Carey’s soaring vocals make the song unforgettable, and it’s the perfect declaration of love and happiness during the holiday season.

Bruce Springsteen - “Santa Claus Is Coming to Town” (1982)

Bruce Springsteen's version of "Santa Claus Is Coming to Town" is anything but traditional. His rock-infused rendition adds a lively energy to the track, with a punchy saxophone and spirited backing vocals that make this version feel like a celebration. It’s perfect for adding some pep to your holiday festivities.

Kelly Clarkson - “Underneath the Tree” (2013)

Kelly Clarkson’s "Underneath the Tree" is a modern holiday classic. With its catchy pop melody and heartfelt lyrics, the song captures the excitement and joy of Christmas. Clarkson’s powerhouse vocals, paired with the festive instrumentation, make it a song that sticks with you long after the season ends.

Brenda Lee - “Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree” (1958)

Brenda Lee’s classic is an energetic, rockabilly-inspired tune that never fails to bring a smile. Its lively rhythm, along with Lee’s youthful vocals, captures the joy and excitement of Christmas celebrations. The song has endured over decades and remains a top holiday favorite.

Wham! - “Last Christmas” (1984)

Wham!’s "Last Christmas" is one of the best-known modern holiday songs. The upbeat tempo and catchy melody disguise the song's somewhat melancholy lyrics, creating a perfect blend of festive fun and emotional depth. It's ideal for those who want a holiday song that’s a little more complex than your typical cheer.

The Jackson 5 - “I Saw Mommy Kissing Santa Claus” (1970)

A playful and fun holiday track, The Jackson 5's version of "I Saw Mommy Kissing Santa Claus" remains a holiday staple. The catchy melody, paired with the young Michael Jackson's energetic vocals, brings a sense of innocent wonderment to the Christmas season. It’s lighthearted and joyful, a great pick for kids and adults alike.

Stevie Wonder - “What Christmas Means to Me” (1967)

From his first holiday album, “Someday at Christmas,” Stevie Wonder’s "What Christmas Means to Me" is a funky, soulful track that brings a different flavor to your Christmas playlist. With its lively piano, jingling bells, and Stevie’s signature harmonica, the song is perfect for spreading holiday cheer and dancing around the Christmas tree.

Ariana Grande - “Santa Tell Me” (2014)

Ariana Grande’s “Santa Tell Me” is a modern pop hit that has quickly become a Christmas favorite. With its catchy hook, playful lyrics, and Grande's high register, the song brings a fun and youthful vibe to the season. It’s perfect for those who want something lighthearted and modern to put on while decorating their Christmas tree.

Eartha Kitt with Henri René and His Orchestra - “Santa Baby” (1953)

Eartha Kitt's sultry performance of "Santa Baby" is unforgettable. She seductively lists her Christmas wishlist, which includes a “54 convertible in light blue” and “one little thing, a ring.” Kitt's unique voice matches the song's playful, flirtatious tone, making it both charming and cheeky. Despite the controversy the song stirred in ’50s-era America, it endures as a festive favorite 68 years after its release.

Judy Garland - “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas” (1944)

First introduced in the movie musical “Meet Me in St. Louis,” Judy Garland’s "Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas" is a comforting heartfelt ballad. In the song, Judy’s character “Esther” reassures her younger sister that they'll "muddle through somehow" as their family prepares to leave their cherished hometown. Her gentle, soothing vocals convey a sense of warmth and nostalgia. Since its debut, it has become a holiday anthem known for its melancholy-yet-hopeful message.

Bing Crosby - “Do You Hear What I Hear?” (1963)

Bing Crosby’s version of “Do You Hear What I Hear?” is a powerful and beautiful Christmas carol. With his smooth voice and the dramatic orchestral arrangement, Crosby brings a sense of reverence to this song, which tells the story of the birth of Jesus from the perspective of different characters. It’s moving and deeply spiritual, making it a standout in any holiday playlist.

Lady Gaga & Tony Bennett - “Winter Wonderland” (2014)

This Grammy-winning duo never fails to deliver an audible delight. With a jazzy rendition of "Winter Wonderland,” Lady Gaga and Tony Bennett walk you through the beautiful sight of snow on Christmas. Their collaboration is a fresh take on the classic, combining Gaga’s powerful vocals with Bennett’s smooth style. The orchestration gives it a timeless feel, while their chemistry makes it truly special. 

Destiny’s Child - “8 Days of Christmas” (2001)

Destiny's Child's “8 Days of Christmas” is a fun, funky addition to any Christmas playlist. The song brings a contemporary R&B flavor to the season, with the trio’s smooth vocals and catchy rhythms. The lyrics feature a playful twist on traditional Christmas gift-giving, making it a fun, modern spin on the holiday.

Daryl Hall & John Oates - “Jingle Bell Rock” (1983)

Daryl Hall & John Oates’ take on “Jingle Bell Rock” is a version that has a touch of country twang with perfectly timed guitar strums of the holiday classic. Their feel-good sound of the song gives it a lively, upbeat feeling, with sleigh bells ringing throughout its entirety. It's perfect for holiday parties and gets everyone in the Christmas spirit.

Bing Crosby - “I’ll Be Home For Christmas” (1943)

"I’ll Be Home for Christmas" by Bing Crosby is a heartfelt, emotionally charged classic. The song was written during World War II and captures the longing and hope of soldiers wishing to be home for the holidays. Crosby’s warm, soothing voice delivers the song’s deep emotional resonance, making it an evergreen favorite.

NSYNC - “Merry Christmas, Happy Holidays” (1998)

NSYNC’s "Merry Christmas, Happy Holidays" is a high-energy, upbeat track that instantly puts you in the holiday spirit. With the boy band's harmonies and catchy chorus, it’s perfect for spreading Christmas cheer with its Y2K vibe. It’s a nostalgic hit for fans of ’90s pop and holiday music.

Mariah Carey - “Oh Santa!” (2020) [feat. Ariana Grande & Jennifer Hudson]

Performed on Mariah Carey’s Magical Christmas Special on Apple TV+, the songbird supreme invited powerhouse vocalists Ariana Grande and Jennifer Hudson for a special rendition of  "Oh Santa!" from her 2010 album “Merry Christmas II You.” It is a lively, upbeat holiday track with a catchy pop melody and vibrant harmonies, the song blends Mariah’s high notes, Ariana’s whistle register, and Jennifer’s soulful depth, making it an extra festive addition to your Christmas playlist.

Dolly Parton - “Hard Candy Christmas” (1982)

Dolly Parton’s “Hard Candy Christmas” is a touching song with a blend of country and Christmas charm. Written for the movie The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas, the song’s melancholy yet hopeful lyrics resonate with anyone experiencing a tough holiday season. Parton’s warm vocals make it an emotional and heartfelt addition to any holiday playlist.

Each of these songs brings its own unique flavor to the Christmas season, whether it's the timeless elegance of Sinatra or the playful pop of Ariana Grande. From soulful ballads to upbeat classics, these tracks are sure to keep your holiday spirits high all season long!