Christmas is rapidly approaching, and with that comes all sorts of trademark parts of the holidays that allow us to instantly recognize that the festive season is here. Chief among these is Christmas music. Nostalgic, warm, and inviting, there are Christmas songs that anyone can enjoy. This raises a question; however, what is the best Christmas song? While this is obviously very subjective, it still has been answered by many and will be answered again today. I’m going to rank what I believe are my top 10 Christmas songs ever made. Without further ado, here is my list!
- “Sleigh Ride”- Leroy Anderson
This is one of the most recreated and popular Christmas songs of all time. Upbeat and bright, “Sleigh Ride” is a staple of the holidays and reminds us all of having fun in the snow. Overall, it’s an innocent, whimsical song that definitely deserves a spot on my list.
- “Silent Night”- Bing Crosby
“Silent Night” is the opposite of the previous track. A soothing piece, “Silent Night” describes the nativity scene as Jesus is born. Its title is perfect at describing how it makes me feel: like everything is calm and relaxing. I love this song, and it will always mean a lot to me.
- “White Christmas”- Bing Crosby
This song is Christmas. Longing for times now gone, “White Christmas” is a melancholic masterpiece. It is a perfect example of growing up, in a way, where everything isn’t as warm as I swear it once was. It’s a beautiful song and absolutely deserves a song in my top 10.
- “It’s The Most Wonderful Time of the Year”- Andy Williams
This song is so fun to me. From the opening with the brass to the key change later in the song, it’s just a really enjoyable song to listen to. It always reminds me that it is, in fact, that time of year, and I can start looking forward to Christmastime. Overall, it’s the perfect feel-good Christmas song.
- “Carol of the Bells”- Various Artists
I love “Carol of the Bells” for its unique sound. No other Christmas song quite sounds like it, yet it distinctly reminds me of the holidays in a unique way. I love the sound of choirs in Christmas music, and this song might be a big reason why (Also, quick side note, the Trans-Siberian Orchestra version of this song is amazing). I will always love this song.
- “It’s Beginning to Look a Lot Like Christmas”- Michael Bublé
I think Michael Bublé was made to sing this song. The vocals combined with the jazz feel of the piece really ties it all together, and the product is a nostalgic gem of a song. It perfectly encapsulates the feel of older Christmas music with the more polished, modern music. I could listen to this one for a while.
- “Believe”- Josh Groban
This is the most nostalgic Christmas song that I have on this list. Nothing else quite sends me back to those warm nights of my childhood, staying up to try to hear Santa come down my chimney to deliver presents. That, combined with a heartwarming message about togetherness, and you have a song that is absolutely worthy of a high spot on my list.
- “Christmas (Baby, Please Come Home)”- Darlene Love
I can’t really describe this song with words alone. I haven’t heard a more emotion-filled, unique Christmas song, ever. The feeling of missing someone on Christmas is created perfectly in this song, and it relates to a lot of people. The instrumentals are probably my favorite out of any song on this list. This song is absolutely timeless, and I will always cherish it.
- “The Christmas Song”- Nat King Cole
I used to hate this song. I can’t believe that I would’ve done such a thing, but I’m glad I’ve changed. This song is beautiful! The words are so comforting, with the strings swelling and providing backup. This song has my favorite vocals out of any song here. Nat King Cole hit it out of the park with this one. A song that inspired many after it, “The Christmas Song” comes in a close second.
- “All I Want for Christmas Is You”- Mariah Carey
I couldn’t put any other song in first. It is my firm belief that it is not Christmastime until I hear this song on the radio. This is the most fun Christmas song ever made, and its success proves it. Everyone can listen to it and (hopefully) not get tired of it. It is the perfect example of modern Christmas music, and I wish there were more like it. Mariah Carey did an amazing job with this one.
Thanks for reading my list! I hope you didn’t get mad for any of my placements, but honestly, I think I did a good job here. If you have any opinions, leave a comment. I’d love to hear what you think!