Christmas is the ideal period to huddle together as a family and make memories. What better way than bonding over iconic Christmas songs that have been passed on for generations.
It’s that time of the year when beanies become a norm, families pick out presents and Hawaiian shirts go out of style. But you know what never gets old? A handpicked playlist comprising the best selection of Christmas songs.
Why not thrill your family this holiday with some incredible Christmas songs, from solemn hymns to kid-friendly duets and even adventure-themed hits just because Santa Claus is coming to town?
Here is a list of ten of the best holiday songs that have made family playlists over decades and remain hot picks.
1. “All I Want For Christmas Is My Two Front Teeth”
Released in 1961, this fantasy-themed Christmas song by Melissa Lynn addresses almost every myth that made up our childhood.
From Santa’s customary visit to the good kids to mysterious Christmas wishlist, “All I Want For Christmas Is My Two Front Teeth,” is a nod to every kid’s favorite things about the all-time favorite holiday. Plus it acknowledges Santa’s distant cousin, the tooth fairy. You can’t help but sing along to this Christmas classic.
2. “Santa’s Lament”
Somehow, Father Guido Sarducci seemed to foresee the future when he recorded the 1995 song, “Santa’s Lament.”
As the name implies, Santa Claus, played by Sarducci, seemed frustrated as he complained about outrageous demands he received all Christmas, and never getting anything in return.
For a change, the mystery man in red wanted someone to request for his wish list and grant his desire for some peace of mind, a sunny vacation, and a well-deserved rest from countless Christmas wishes.
Certainly what any average Joe would wish for this holiday after a grueling pandemic year.
3. “All I Want For Christmas Is You”
Mariah Carie’s 2011 hit, “All I Want For Christmas Is You,” is one song guaranteed to get you and your family in the holiday spirit.
With its powerful lyrics, hippy soundtrack, and fun, colorful video, it sure is a must-have on everyone’s Christmas playlist this season.
4. “White Christmas”
1942s “White Christmas,” by Bing Crosby has stood the test of time, so much that the Guinness Book of World record named it the best-selling single of all time. In essence, Christmas isn’t complete without adding this track to the playlist.
5. “Frosty The Snowman”
Generations of kids have anticipated the return of Frosty the Snowman since he made his way into hearts in Gene Autry’s 1947 Christmas song.
Though yet to return, the mythical snowman has made every Christmas ever since, albeit in the track blasting through household stereos each holiday season. With an accent like Autry’s, one can’t escape getting hooked.
6. “Jingle Bells”
It’s literally impossible to imagine Christmas without the 1960 classic hit, “Jingle Bells,” or its 1983 counterpart “Jingle Bell Rocks.”
Bet Ella Fitzgerald would never have guessed her song would become synonymous with Christmas across generations.
7. “Feliz Navidad”
Since Puerto Rican singer Jose Feliciano released his bilingual Christmas song, “Feliz Navidad,” in 1970, the holidays have never been the same.
With easily comprehensible lyrics, a jazzy feel, and a child-friendly vibe, it has become one of the most favorite family Christmas songs. Not even Clay Walker’s later adaptation of the song could beat the original.
8. “Santa Claus Is Coming To Town”
This 1985 holiday song by Bruce Springsteen is one of the all-time best Christmas songs most families can’t do without. Who could blame them given the artist’s enigmatic rendition that is sure to leave you moving merrily to the beats from start to finish?
9. “12 Days Of Christmas”
There is something about this Christmas song that leaves every kid fantasizing about performing in the Opera. Perhaps it’s the carefully outlined lyrics telling a story of the fulfillment of a Christmas wish list by someone else other than Santa.
Whatever the case may be, “The 12 Days Of Christmas” is one all-time family favorite song that could make your Christmas playlist the talk of the town.
10. I Saw Mommy kissing Santa Claus”
Jimmy Boyd analyzed Santa’s visit from a child’s point of view in the Christmas song, “I Saw Mommy Kissing Santa Claus.”
Determined not to get on Santa’s bad books, the poor kid resolved to keep his mom’s little rendezvous with the bearded man in red a secret from his dad. If only he knew who lay behind the jolly white beards.
Best to keep that fact hidden from the kids lest we ruin their Christmas fantasies about Santa, reindeers, and flying sleighs.
Stock your playlist with these beautiful Christmas songs and have everything about this season, from Christmas tree decoration to large family dinners transform magically.
