If you’re anything like us, the holidays mean spending time with loved ones, eating one too many sweet treats and most importantly, holiday music. Nothing kicks you into the holiday spirit like the perfect holiday music. Regardless of what kind of festivities you’re celebrating, we’ve got you covered on the tunes. Our special lineup includes modern, classic, country, jazz, and of course, plenty of oldies but goodies.
Ana Gasteyer – “Sugar and Booze” (Henry’s Girl, Inc)
You know Ana Gasteyer for her jokes on Saturday Night Live, but did you know Ana is also an incredible jazz singer? Gasteyer recently released her first Christmas album via The Orchard, Sugar & Booze. Sure, ice skating and snowmen are great, but the best part of the holidays, according to Ana, is sugar and booze.
Mannheim Steamroller – “Carol of the Bells” (American Gramaphone)
There isn’t a Christmas song that even comes close to rocking as hard as “Carol of the Bells”. With heavy bass, booming chime patterns, and tasty synth licks, Mannheim Steamroller’s version of this instrumental classic is one of our favorites.
Dolly Parton – “Christmas Time’s a Comin’” (Red River Entertainment)
One of the best parts about the holidays? Going home and spending quality time with loved ones. In this country Christmas jam, Dolly Parton feels her “heart a yurnin’ for the folks at home” as the holidays grow nearer and nearer. We relate to the queen of country music on this one.
Nina Nesbitt – “Last December (Christmas Version)” (Cooking Vinyl)
Scottish pop artist Nina Nesbitt released “Last December” on her 2019 album, The Sun Will Come Up, The Seasons Will Change. Nesbitt recently stated how the song always reminded her of Christmas. Lucky for us, Nina recorded a Christmas version for us to enjoy over the holidays.
Nobody’s Girl – “Merry Christmas, Baby” (Lucky Hound Music)
The Austin-based Americana group Nobody’s Girl puts a southern twist on this Otis Redding Christmas favorite. With a marching snare, retro organ, and twangy vocals and harmonies, the trio’s version of “Merry Christmas, Baby” will make you want to put your dancing shoes on.
Kelsea Ballerini – “Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas” (Black River Entertainment)
The homecoming queen is here to sing us right into the holiday season. Kelsea Ballerini’s soothing voice and piano accompaniment will make your holiday festivities complete with some much needed peace and relaxation.
José Feliciano – “Feliz Navidad” (Anthem Records)
What holiday playlist could be complete without “Feliz Navidad”? Whether you’re a Spanish speaker or not, everyone knows this song and can sing along. In fact, “Feliz Navidad” is one of the Top 25 most downloaded and streamed holiday songs not only in the United States, but all around the world.
Lupita Infante – “Blanca Navidad” (Azteca Records, LLC)
Lupita Infante’s soft but powerful vocals throughout this beautiful ballad make us weak in the knees. Lupita is the daughter of one of Mexico’s most recognized actors and singers, Pedro Infante. After listening to Lupita’s beautiful Spanish version of this Christmas classic, it’s clear that the apple does not fall far from the tree when it comes to talent and craft.
Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra with Wynton Marsalis – “(Everybody’s Waitin’ for) The Man with the Bag (feat. Veronica Swift)” (Blue Engine Records)
There’s nothing like the sound a big band playing Christmas music. The world famous Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra gets us right into the Christmas feels with this fun and uplifting piece featuring the rising jazz talent, Veronica Swift.
The Kinks – “Father Christmas” (Wicked Cool Records)
Feel like rockin’ a little harder this holiday season? Listen to The Kinks song “Father Christmas” if you’re feeling more naughty than nice. This quirky Christmas tune will bring out the rebel in you.
Eager for more music to set the mood for the festive weeks ahead? Try on one of our holiday playlists which come in all shapes and genres:
Alternative Christmas
Christmas: Classics & Originals
Indie Spins on Holiday Classics
Have a great holiday and a happy new year!
