The season of “Jingle Bells” and “Sleigh Ride” is upon us. While some might wait until after Thanksgiving to start celebrating, others have been incessantly singing Christmas carols for a few weeks already — personally, my holiday playlist is queued up Nov. 1. And so, I present to you a carefully crafted mix of songs aptly titled “Holiday Songs I Listen to as Soon as It’s Socially Acceptable.” Maybe these aren’t individually the best holiday songs, but I believe they’re necessary to channel the festive spirit.
All I Want for Christmas Is You — Mariah Carey
A predictable first, but there’s a reason it tops the charts each year.
Most holiday lyric: Oh, I won’t ask for much this Christmas // I won’t even wish for snow // And I’m just gonna keep on waiting // Underneath the mistletoe.
Step Into Christmas — Elton John
Peak Christmas tree decorating music. Makes me want to sing, dance and, as the song says, “watch the snow fall forever and ever.”
Most holiday lyric: So I’m sendin’ you this Christmas card // To say, “It’s nice to have you here.”
We Need a Little Christmas — Johnny Mathis
I had to memorize this one in preschool, and it’s stuck with me to this day.
Most holiday lyric: Slice up the fruit cake // It’s time we’ve hung some tinsel on the evergreen bough.
Feliz Navidad — José Feliciano
Just vibes. It’s so fun, and you’re lying to yourself if you think otherwise.
Most holiday lyric: Próspero año y felicidad.
Last Christmas — Wham!
Tired of upbeat Christmas pop? Here’s some heartbroken lyrics with a classic ’80s vibe.
Most holiday lyric: “Happy Christmas,” I wrapped it up and sent it // With a note saying, “I love you,” I meant it.
Drummer Boy — Justin Bieber, Busta Rhymes
I used to think “Mistletoe” was the supreme Justin Bieber Christmas song until I got to college – don’t blame me, blame my roommate.
Most holiday lyric: Yeah, I’m on the beat ’cause the beat goes dumb // And I only spit heat ’cause I’m playing for the Son.
Do They Know It’s Christmas? — Band Aid
Last verse. Enough said.
Most holiday lyric: Feed the world // Let them know it’s Christmas time again.
Cold December Night — Michael Bublé
My one big wildcard pick, but it’s a cute, wholesome and Hallmark-y holiday love song – give it a listen!
Most holiday lyric: Won’t be wrapped under a tree // I want something that lasts forever // So kiss me on this cold December night.
Christmas Time Is Here — Vince Guaraldi Trio
Tell me this doesn’t take you straight back to elementary school parties with holiday movies and hot cocoa.
Most holiday lyric: Fun for all that children call // Their favorite time of year.
The Christmas Song — Nat King Cole
This song is post-Christmas Eve dinner, curled up on the couch, fuzzy pajamas, “How the Grinch Stole Christmas!” (the 1966 version, always), frosted and sprinkled sugar cookies and everything you want the holidays to be.
Most holiday lyric: And every mother’s child is gonna spy // To see if reindeer really know how to fly.
It’s the Most Wonderful Time of the Year — Andy Williams
Have to end on a classic — it perfectly describes the “hap-happiest season of all.”
Most holiday lyric: There’ll be much mistletoeing // And hearts will be glowing when loved ones are near
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Related Stories:
— Season’s greetings: How to celebrate the holidays in Evanston
— Holiday Stroll brings business and holiday cheer to Central Street
