The 15 Best and 7 Worst Holiday Songs to Shape Your Christmas Playlist
NEW YORK, NY — With the holiday season just around the corner, music lovers and party planners alike are gearing up to curate the perfect Christmas playlist. A recent ranking sheds light on the 15 best and 7 worst holiday songs of all time, underscoring how the right—or wrong—tunes can make or break a festive gathering. Nothing divides a Christmas party quite like a controversial song choice, making this list particularly timely.
Leading the pack is Mariah Carey’s iconic “All I Want for Christmas is You,” a track that has become synonymous with the season. Praised for its upbeat and joyous vibe without veering into cheesiness, the song captures universally relatable emotions and invites listeners to sing and dance along. Its enduring popularity cements Mariah Carey’s status as the undisputed queen of Christmas music. For those interested, the song is widely available on official music platforms and can be viewed through Columbia Records’ YouTube channel.
Close behind is Kelly Clarkson’s “Underneath the Tree,” which many consider a worthy heir to Carey’s throne. Clarkson’s festive anthem nearly eclipses the classic, offering a fresh yet timeless sound that resonates with modern audiences. The track’s official video is accessible via RCA Records, showcasing its vibrant energy.
Other revered classics include Darlene Love’s “Christmas (Baby Please Come Home),” Bing Crosby’s original solo rendition of “White Christmas,” and Eartha Kitt’s playful and sultry “Santa Baby.” Each of these songs brings a unique flavor to the holiday soundtrack, from soulful longing to nostalgic warmth. Bing Crosby’s version, in particular, holds the distinction of being the best-selling single of all time, a testament to its timeless appeal. Fans can explore these tracks on official channels such as Philles Records and Paramount’s YouTube page.
The list also highlights the cultural significance of songs like “Fairytale of New York” by The Pogues featuring Kirsty MacColl, a Celtic-style duet that weaves humor and heartbreak into a compelling narrative. While some lyrics have sparked debate, the song remains an irresistible holiday staple. Similarly, “Christmas in Hollis” by Run-DMC brings a cheerful hip-hop flair to the season, illustrating the diverse genres that contribute to holiday music’s rich tapestry.
On the flip side, the ranking identifies seven songs that may be best left off this year’s playlists. Among them is Paul McCartney’s “Wonderful Christmastime,” criticized for its repetitive and irritating chorus despite McCartney’s legendary songwriting status. Such songs, while popular in some circles, can provoke groans rather than cheers at festive events.
Music experts and event organizers emphasize the importance of thoughtful curation during the holidays. According to guidelines from the Library of Congress, holiday music not only sets the mood but also reflects cultural values and collective memories, making the stakes higher than one might expect for a party soundtrack.
As families and friends prepare to gather, this ranking serves as a useful guide to navigate the complex landscape of holiday music. Whether you lean toward the soulful crooning of Judy Garland’s “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas” or the rock-infused charm of Queen’s “Thank God It’s Christmas,” choosing the right songs can enhance the festive spirit and create lasting memories.
For those looking to explore the full list and sample the songs, many are available on official music platforms and archives, ensuring easy access to the season’s best and worst tunes. The BuzzFeed article compiling this ranking offers an engaging starting point for holiday music enthusiasts.
As the season unfolds, one thing remains clear: the soundtrack of Christmas is as varied and vibrant as the celebrations themselves, and picking the right songs is key to spreading joy rather than discord.
Leave a Reply