Christmas music has become its own genre of music. From classics stemming back to the 1950s to the pop artists’ Christmas albums of today, there is an endless catalog of Christmas songs to choose from. However, the same few songs find themselves on repeat on every Spotify playlist, radio station, mall, and grocery store loudspeakers. Today, we will be going through some underappreciated tracks that should make their way onto your holiday playlist this season.
Underappreciated Christmas Music That Should Be On Your Holiday Playlist
Christmas (Baby Please Come Home)- Rosie O’Donnell and Cher
Before Cher’s “DJ Play A Christmas Song” debuted at the Macys Thanksgiving Day Parade this year, she brought a club mix to a classic Christmas song. She paired up with Rosie O’Donnell when they collaborated on her 1999 album “A Rosie Christmas.” Although O’Donnell isn’t known for being a singer, her and Cher’s vocal pair with a slight touch of autotune made an upbeat twist to an otherwise sad song. Despite the lyrics long for a lost love, the late 90s and early 2000s beat makes it hard to resist dancing the sorrow away.
Father Christmas- The Kinks
Taking a unique spin on the holiday spirit. The Kinks “Father Christmas” stands out for its edgy sound and social commentary, departing from the typical cheerful and sentimental Christmas tunes, telling the story of a department store Santa who gets mugged by a gang of kids for money to help their struggling families, this track has listeners take a different approach to the Christmas season and look a the financial pressure it puts on people—offering a gritty and realistic perspective that remains relevant even decades after its release. It’s a socially conscious and musically compelling song, making it a standout in the Christmas music genre.
Christmas Every Day- The Miracles
Delivering a festive experience that captures how the spirit of Christmas can be in us every day with its timeless sound. Originally released in 1963, “Christmas Every Day” by The Miracles is a classic within the Motown and R&B genres. The slow-paced song is a love song to the one person who gives you that warm and happy feeling one should feel during the Christmas season, expressing how every day would have that feeling. Its smooth blend of heartfelt lyrics, soulful vocals, and a timeless musical arrangement solidifies its place as a classic that continues to inspire and uplift, spreading the spirit of Christmas throughout the year.
Fairytale of New York- The Pogues
At its core, the song is a tale of love and heartbreak set against the backdrop of New York City during Christmastime. A duet between the late Shane MacGowan and Kirsty MacColl right from the opening notes, MacGowan and MacColl’s vocals, driven by the accordion and tin whistle, immediately transport the listener to a world of Irish folk influences, creating a musical atmosphere that is both melancholic and spirited. While “Fairytale of New York” may not fit the mold of traditional festive cheer, its authenticity and emotional depth make it a Christmas classic in its own right. The song’s ability to evoke a range of emotions has cemented its status as a holiday favorite that resonates with listeners, making it irresistible to belt out the lyrics whenever it comes on.
Christmas Where We Are (feat. Billy Ray Cyrus)- Dolly Parton
A heartwarming addition to the holiday music genre, featured on the 2020 Christmas album, “A Holly Dolly Christmas,” the song brings together a festive blend of country and pop. Dolly Parton’s signature warm and inviting vocals, paired with the song’s lyrics, of enjoying Christmas no matter where you are, even if it’s not the idolized version of where the holiday should be spent. It evokes the simple wonders of the season. The collaboration with Billy Ray Cyrus adds a delightful dynamic to the track, with his distinctive voice complementing Parton’s in a harmonious duet that successfully captures the spirit of the season and offers a fresh perspective on the importance of love and togetherness during the holiday season.
Hours Outside in the Snow- Modern Baseball
Musically different than a majority of the songs listed above, “Hours Outside in the Snow” is more of a look back at a specific Christmas Eve night spent wandering in the cold. Serving as a reminder that despite this holiday being a special time of year, it doesn’t stop life from happening. The song’s appeal lies in its ability to capture the nuances of human emotion, creating a space for listeners to reflect on their own experiences. Modern Baseball perfectly contrasts the warmth of holiday traditions and the chill of the outdoors, amplifying the emotional complexity and creating a rich tapestry of feelings associated with the holiday season.
Christmas Time Is Here- Khruangbin
A psychedelic funk rock mix on the classic theme to “ A Charlie Brown Christmas,” Khruangbin’s cover is a laid-back remix to a classic tune. Perfect for those times to take a step back and breathe. The trio’s interpretation of “Christmas Time Is Here” maintains a delicate balance between reverence for the original song and the band’s musical stylings. While their cover doesn’t align with the traditional festive sound associated with many Christmas tunes, Khruangbin’s version captures the essence of quiet winter moments, a beautiful and understated take on a classic that invites listeners to slow down, reflect, and appreciate the more contemplative aspects of the holiday season.
Christmas music comes in various genres, from jazz and pop to rock and contemporary. This variety of options ensures there’s something for everyone, allowing individuals to tailor their holiday playlists to their musical tastes. There’s a certain magic in the air when Christmas music starts playing, creating a backdrop for special moments, whether it’s trimming the tree, wrapping presents, or enjoying a holiday meal. Certain songs soon become a soundtrack to these cherished traditions and become a reminder of those times for years to come.
