Whether a classic holiday tune or a modern take, holiday songs often set the festive mood of the holiday season. Following are some holiday favorites:
“Last Christmas” by Wham!
Wham!’s 1984 single “Last Christmas” tells the story of a failed relationship and unrequited love during the holiday season. Though the song’s lyrics are sad, the upbeat nature of the song makes it a favorite for many. The song was written and produced by Wham!’s George Michael, and was released alongside the “Last Christmas (Pudding Mix),” live version and instrumental version.
“Christmas Tree Farm” by Taylor Swift
Taylor Swift’s 2019 single “Christmas Tree Farm” is filled with the singer’s love for the holiday season, telling the story of a holiday romance, and reminiscing about the tree farm that she grew up on. The song was written by Swift, who also produced it with the help of producer Jimmy Napes of Republic Records. In 2020, “Christmas Tree Farm”’s live version was released, and, in 2021, the “Old Timey” version of the song was released.
“Merry Christmas from Brenda Lee” by Brenda Lee
Brenda Lee’s 1964 Christmas album, “Merry Christmas from Brenda Lee,” features 18 songs, including Lee’s original song, “Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree,” as well as various covers. Some of these include covers of Bobby Helms’ “Jingle Bell Rock,” Gene Autry’s “Santa Claus is Coming to Town” and Dean Martin’s “A Marshmallow World.”
“Merry Christmas” by Mariah Carey
Mariah Carey’s 1994 Christmas album, “Merry Christmas,” originally featured 10 songs. In its 30th anniversary edition, the album was extended to 29 songs, some new, and some extra versions of songs from the album’s original release. The album includes originals, such as Carey’s most streamed song, “All I Want for Christmas is You” and “Jesus Born on This Day.” The album also features covers, including covers of Darlene Love’s “Christmas (Baby Please Come Home)” and Gene Autry’s “Santa Claus is Comin’ to Town.”
“White Christmas” by Bing Crosby
Bing Crosby’s 1945 Christmas album, “White Christmas,” features 12 songs, both originals and covers. Four songs from the album are collaborative: “Santa Claus is Comin’ to Town,” “Jingle Bells,” and “Mele Kalikimaka (Merry Christmas)” with the Andrews Sisters, and “Silver Bells” with Carol Richards. The album includes original performances of songs such as “White Christmas” and “I’ll be home for Christmas,” as well as covers, such as those of Perry Como’s “It’s Beginning to Look a lot Like Christmas” and classic “Jingle Bells.”