Definitively Ranked: The Top 50 Christmas Songs

Some people enjoy reflective Christmas tunes with gentle lyrics about snowy evenings and nostalgic memories. These listeners aren't chasing festive joy but rather a moment to indulge in reminiscence. Others thrive on lively jingles, with sleigh bells and bright horn arrangements that define many seasonal favorites. For those with a love for energetic holiday music, the season doesn't truly start until they've danced around the Christmas tree. Clearly, the range of Christmas musicjoyful to somberis vast, making it impossible to satisfy every taste in a single list.

Still, weve attempted a comprehensive guide. This collection spans classic and contemporary artists across rock, country, R&B, and pop. Whether it lifts your spirits or tugs at your heartstrings, theres something here for everyone.

1. 'Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas,' Judy Garland Originally written by Hugh Martin and Ralph Blane, the first version was deemed too sad for Garlands film. Thankfully, the released version is far more cheerful.
2. 'All I Want for Christmas Is You,' Mariah Carey This modern classic took 25 years to top the Billboard Hot 100, but it remains an essential festive anthem.
3. 'Last Christmas,' Wham! George Michael's bittersweet lyrics paired with a smooth melody make this song a seasonal favorite.
4. 'Tennessee Christmas,' Amy Grant Grants 1983 lead track is a warm, nostalgic ballad that resonates regardless of snowfall.
5. 'Peace on Earth/Little Drummer Boy,' David Bowie and Bing Crosby An unexpected but magical collaboration, also notable as Crosbys final recording before his passing.
6. 'Christmas (Baby Please Come Home),' Darlene Love Known for its annual televised performances, Loves Phil Spector-produced classic remains timeless.
7. 'The Christmas Song,' Nat King Cole Coles smooth baritone has become synonymous with the season, though the song was written by Mel Torm.
8. 'Christmas Wrapping,' The Waitresses This 1981 New Wave hit tells a nearly 500-word story with unforgettable energy.
9. 'Do You Hear What I Hear,' Whitney Houston Houstons soaring vocals on the 1987 charity album make this rendition a lasting holiday treasure.
10. 'Wonderful Christmastime,' Paul McCartney McCartneys bright, melodic solo hit from McCartney II captures his signature cheerfulness.
11. 'Celebrate Me Home,' Kenny Loggins A reflective tune about longing for comfort and familiarity.
12. 'Santa Claus Is Comin to Town,' Bruce Springsteen and the E Street Band A 1975 live rock version that remains a fan favorite.
13. 'Grown-Up Christmas List,' Natalie Cole A gentle reminder of what truly matters during the holiday season.
14. 'Same Old Lang Syne,' Dan Fogelberg A poignant story of fleeting romance, delivered with tender lyrics and melody.
15. 'I Saw Mommy Kissing Santa Claus,' The Jackson 5 The playful vocals of young Michael Jackson make this classic endlessly charming.
16. 'Santa Baby,' Eartha Kitt Once controversial, Kitts rendition has become an iconic holiday flirtation.
17. 'Happy Xmas (War Is Over),' John Lennon, Yoko Ono and the Plastic Ono Band An anti-war anthem that has grown into a seasonal essential.
18. 'Do They Know Its Christmas,' Band Aid Bob Geldofs 1984 charity single brought together the UKs top musicians for a humanitarian cause.
19. 'Silent Night,' Kelly Clarkson, Reba McEntire, Trisha Yearwood A moving trio performance that highlights the songs beauty.
20. 'Gloria (Angels We Have Heard on High),' Michael W. Smith Smiths piano and synth arrangements elevate this traditional carol.
21. 'White Christmas,' Bing Crosby Irving Berlins 1942 classic, featured in Holiday Inn, won an Academy Award for Best Original Song.
22. 'Winter Wonderland,' Jason Mraz Mraz offers a distinctive take on the 1934 classic with his signature vocal style.
23. 'The Twelve Days of Christmas,' John Denver and The Muppets Denvers folk charm combined with the Muppets makes this version irresistible.
24. 'Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer,' Gene Autry A singalong beloved by generations, capturing festive joy for children and adults alike.
25. 'I'll Be Home for Christmas,' Josh Groban Groban delivers a moving tribute to soldiers longing for home during the holidays.
26. 'Rockin Around the Christmas Tree,' Brenda Lee Recorded at age 13, this 1958 classic continues to dominate holiday playlists.
27. 'Holly Jolly Christmas,' Burl Ives A cheerful singalong immortalized in Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer.
28. 'We Need a Little Christmas,' Angela Lansbury Lansburys Broadway roots shine through in this uplifting Jerry Herman tune.
29. 'My Favorite Things,' Tony Bennett Bennetts distinctive delivery breathes new life into this oft-recited holiday song.
30. 'Christmas All Over Again,' Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers Pettys signature vocals enhance this Phil Spector-inspired track.
31. 'Someday at Christmas,' Stevie Wonder A 1967 gem reimagined in 2015 with Andra Day, showcasing Wonders soulful touch.
32. 'Sleigh Ride,' The Carpenters Karen and Richard Carpenters 1978 version remains a holiday staple with flawless harmonies.
33. 'Silver Bells,' Michael Bubl with Naturally 7 A smooth a cappella collaboration that elevates this classic carol.
34. 'Merry Xmas Everybody,' Slade A 1973 glam rock hit full of energy and holiday spirit.
35. 'Christmas Time Is Here,' Vince Guaraldi Trio Iconic for A Charlie Brown Christmas, this jazz classic is both instrumental and lyrical.
36. 'Merry Christmas, Happy Holidays,' NSYNC Released in 1998, NSYNCs festive album highlighted the groups youthful charm.
37. 'Feliz Navidad,' Jos Feliciano Over 50 years old, this simple Spanish greeting remains globally beloved.
38. 'Christmas in Sarajevo,' Trans-Siberian Orchestra A dramatic mix of guitars and synthesizers that never loses its flair.
39. 'Blue Christmas,' Heart Ann and Nancy Wilsons rendition rivals the original Elvis classic.
40. 'This Christmas,' Donny Hathaway Gained renewed popularity after a 1991 re-release, inspiring countless covers.
41. 'Little Saint Nick,' Beach Boys Merges the bands harmonies with festive cheer in a 1963 classic.
42. 'Christmas Time,' Bryan Adams A simple but enduring 1985 hit, celebrated for its catchy refrain.
43. 'God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen,' Annie Lennox Lennoxs crystalline voice elevates this traditional English carol.
44. 'Away in a Manger,' David Foster and Katharine McPhee A delicate blend of piano and soaring vocals for a tender lullaby.
45. 'Christmas Tree Farm,' Taylor Swift Swifts personal connection to tree farms adds authenticity to this seasonal track.
46. 'Christmas Is the Time to Say I Love You,' Billy Squier A heartfelt rocker from the early 80s, paired with a creative music video.
47. 'This Gift,' 98 Degrees A 1999 release showcasing the quartets signature romantic harmonies.
48. 'Mele Kalikimaka,' Bing Crosby and The Andrews Sisters A Hawaiian-inspired greeting captured in a 1950 recording.
49. 'Run Rudolph Run,' Sheryl Crow A lively cover featured on a 2001 charity compilation.
50. 'Thats Christmas to Me,' Pentatonix The a cappella groups third studio album solidified their place in modern Christmas music.

Author: Gavin Porter