Honorable Mentions
It’s Beginning To Look a Lot Like Christmas – Michael Buble
Feliz Navidad – Jose Feliciano
Wonderful Christmastime – Paul McCartney
- It’s The Most Wonderful Time of the Year – Andy Williams
Starting off with “It’s The Most Wonderful Time of the Year” by Andy Williams. This song has become one of the most iconic Christmas songs. Released in 1963, it is a timeless track that’s just as popular today as it was when it first came out, and a must have on any Christmas playlist. Whatever holiday activity you’re doing, this song can instantly set the mood. Consistently making it onto the charts each holiday season, the song’s lasting popularity proved itself worthy of the number five spot.
- Rockin’ Around The Christmas Tree – Brenda Lee
“Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree” by Brenda Lee, released in 1958, has a catchy melody, fast beat, and energy that’s perfect for any holiday gathering. Brenda Lee’s, only 13 when she recorded the song, created an instant classic. What’s great about this song is how it mixes the Christmas sound with a rock and roll feel, which was a pretty new idea back in the late ‘50s. This song has been in movies, commercials, and TV specials for decades, and it’s played almost everywhere during the holidays. Its popularity and ability to get everyone in the holiday spirit definitely earned its spot at number four.
- Jingle Bell Rock – Bobby Helms
“Jingle Bell Rock” by Bobby Helms is another classic, released in 1957, it took the familiar “Jingle Bells” tune and gave a rock and roll twist, making it stand out from the other Christmas music at the time. Then, holiday songs were mostly dominated by the traditional carols and slower songs, but the song’s upbeat tempo and catchy melody brought a new energy to Christmas music, helping to expand the styles of Christmas music, influencing Brenda Lee just a year later. Still a favorite after more than 60 years, its popularity over the years proves how much of a staple it has become, earning it a well deserved spot at number three.
- Last Christmas – Wham!
“Last Christmas” by Wham! puts a spin on a typical Christmas song. Released in 1984, it combines the festive part of Christmas with a heartbreak story. As most Christmas songs are usually very happy and positive, Wham! was able to turn an emotional song into an upbeat hit that sits at the top of the charts each holiday season. Bringing a new vibe to the genre of music, they have left an impact that has inspired countless covers of the song. Its insanely catchy melody and memorable lyrics makes it a holiday favorite, securing the number two spot on the list.
- All I Want For Christmas Is You – Mariah Carey
When it comes to Christmas music, “All I Want For Christmas Is You” is the undisputed GOAT. Released in 1994, Mariah Carey has transcended generations, establishing this song as a staple of the Christmas Holiday. Impacting the entire world and entering global charts each year, Carey’s single holds the Guinness world record for the highest charting holiday song on the Billboard Hot 100 by a solo artist. Some may argue that they are tired of hearing this song bear the title of the greatest Christmas song, but sometimes you just have to recognize greatness.
