I just got done reading a blog about the “most annoying Christmas songs,” many of which I agreed with. Still, ‘tis the season and all that. I’d rather be jolly than annoyed, so I thought I’d share some of my favorites—at the very least, my favorite versions of some popular ones. When I set my Spotify to “private session,” there’s a good chance I’m listening to one of these songs, and I will be until the New Year.
Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas | Swear and Shake
Surprise! There’s a Swear and Shake song on this list. Who knew? But for real. Listen to Kari’s caramel vocals, the happy banjo, the festive uke. Who could hate Christmas while listening to this?
Underneath the Tree | Kelly Clarkson
Someone needed to knock Mariah Carey of the Christmas Pop throne. I love that Kelly Clarkson did it with this song. Will I hate it in ten years after it’s been overplayed and overperformed on every Christmas special ever? Maybe. But for now, it makes me smile.
I Never Spend a Christmas That I Don’t Think of You | The Statler Brothers
Guys. Bring this Christmas album back now. I grew up listening to this group with my family while traveling to various family holiday functions. The nostalgia is strong with this one.
Fairytale of New York | The Pogues featuring Kirsty McColl
Probably the most depressing Christmas song on the planet. But let me tell you, you haven’t experienced Christmas until you’ve seen a full, rowdy Irish pub come to a complete standstill the moment this song begins to play.
It’s Christmas Time Again | Matthew Mayfield
Mostly I love this one because it’s Christmas Matthew Mayfield style. Since I love his music and I love Christmas, getting them both together in one song is a pretty exciting gift.
It’s Christmas, I Love You | Daniel Ellsworth and Alva Leigh
Again, who’s surprised? Daniel Ellsworth on another “Jen’s favorite music” list. Well, I love his stuff for a reason, and this is epic Ellsworth. Fun, funny, quirky, intelligent, Christmas. What’s not to love?
Over the River | The Last Bison
I love that this folk band doesn’t try to hide or downplay their classical roots. Instead, they fold it right in, the way our ancestors surely did. It’s a study of the past, present, and future of music, and then, of course, there’s Christmas.
The Lights and Buzz | Jack’s Mannequin
It’s a few years old, but I’m still not tired of it. Maybe because I only listen during Christmas, or maybe because it’s Jack’s Mannequin. Either way, it’s a nice addition to the playlist, and a break from all the same ol’ songs.
Cuddle Up | Catey Shaw
This is less a Christmas song and more a winter song, but it’s cold outside. Her voice is adorable, and I can’t get enough of the bouncy beat. It’s perfect for invoking thoughts of lit trees, hot chocolate, and Christmas movies.
So, how many will you add to your Christmas list? What’s your favorite Christmas song this year? I wanna know!