The Best Christmas Songs of All Time

Pull on your ugliest Christmas sweater, get cozy, and turn on some music because here are the 35 Best Christmas songs of all time.

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Image via Columbia Records

john legend legendary christmas art

It’s the most wonderful time of the year! If you’re a Yuletide purist, your holiday season may look something like a Hallmark movie—exchanging gifts, kissing under the mistletoe, and spreading some of that magical Christmas cheer. For others, getting in the holiday spirit may be as easy as sticking reindeer antlers on your car and arguing with your friends over whether or not Die Hard is a Christmas film.

But with the window of opportunity for binge-watching Christmas movies and showing off your flawless home decor lasting only a few short weeks in December, priority number one for proper holiday celebration has been and always will be queuing up the best Christmas songs, to soundtrack your every movement during these chilly days.

The debate over how soon one can start listening to Christmas music has been around about as long as the chicken and the egg. We’re here to settle that debate once and for all by telling you that it doesn’t matter when you start listening or how long you listen after everyone’s packed up their string lights; what truly matters is what music you choose Though it was once strictly “Jingle Bells” and choral arrangements, Christmas music has grown into a phenomenal collection of pop covers, new classics, and remastered hits that we all love.

If you’re too busy getting your holiday shopping done to listen to a Christmas album all the way through, consider dabbling in a smorgasbord of the best Christmas songs of all time from our list below. And have another glass of eggnog while you’re at it—‘tis the season!

Note: If you’re looking for Christmas rap songs, check out our list of the 21 Best Christmas Rap Songs here.

Mariah Carey, "All I Want For Christmas Is You"

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Since the release of her iconic holiday hit “All I Want for Christmas Is You,” Mariah Carey has become the undisputed Queen of Christmas, and for good reason—the song is engineered Christmas perfection. It’s an energizing burst of joy, boasting a ridiculously danceable beat, Carey’s signature vocals, and lots of bells (sleigh and otherwise). At your next boozy holiday gathering, this song is guaranteed to get everybody onto the dance floor (and sloppily singing along). —Sophia Stewart

Whitney Houston, “The Christmas Song (Chestnuts Roasting on an Open Fire)”

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Revamping one of the most recognizable Christmas songs ever written, Whitney Houston added a little bit of soul and a lot of vocal mastery to “The Christmas Song (Chestnuts Roasting on an Open Fire).” Though it’s hard to find a Whitney Houston song that isn’t enjoyable, this classy, modern take on Nat King Cole’s original is truly a gem. Added snaps and Houston’s gospel-worthy vocal runs in this Christmas classic are the ideal soundtracks for hanging stockings and watching the yule log burn out on Christmas night. —Mallorie List

The Temptations, "Rudolph The Red-Nosed Reindeer"

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Most versions of “Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer” confirm that it is a repetitive and irredeemable kiddy song. But in the hands of The Temptations, it takes on a new groovy life that will have you swaying along. A swanky new tempo, suave singing, and the group’s signature vocal blend lend the song a slick, car-free, and, dare we say, sexy vibe that will manage to get you and your grandma grooving. —Sophia Stewart

Jeremih & Chance the Rapper, “All The Way”

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Merry Christmas Lil’ Mama is the Christmas gift that keeps on giving. Jeremih and Chance the Rapper’s holiday-inspired mixtape takes the ordinary (Christmas music) and makes it extraordinary (trap-infused R&B Christmas music). All The Way’s rap cadence is the perfect divergence from your run-of-the-mill Yuletide carols, with a short interlude from Jeremih to break up the infectious chorus, which utters the line, “Got ‘bout three hoes on my sleigh.” What better way to liven up your workplace holiday party? —Mallorie List

Bright Eyes, "Blue Christmas"

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Not every Christmas song can be a joyride. Some of us will be spending this Christmas sad and alone—maybe even recently dumped. Luckily, Bright Eyes, the ultimate purveyor of indie musical sadness, has you covered. With his rendition of “Blue Christmas,” this shaky-voiced sweetheart packages his holiday heartache in a foot-tappingly good take on the Elvis classic. You can count on Bright Eyes to make your Christmas a little less blue this holiday season. —Sophia Stewart

The Jackson Five, “Santa Claus Is Coming To Town”

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This Jackson 5 single is still a holiday favorite. Michael Jackson and his brothers are playful, jolly, and childish, but in a cute, naive kind of way. And while they exude youthful energy as they sing about a mythical character, the vocals are far from amateur. The group showcases harmonies and melodies that most people years their senior can’t hit. —Jessica McKinney

Chris Brown, “This Christmas”

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Chris Brown’s “This Christmas” might be the most recognizable rendition of Donny Hathaway's 1971 hit of the same name. While the original track still holds a special place on everyone’s holiday playlist, CB breathes new life into the classic with contemporary R&B riffs and crooning. Brown’s version is the lead single off of the This Christmas film soundtrack, starring the singer, Idris Elba, and Lauren London. And if you haven’t seen the final scene of the movie where Breezy delivers a riveting live performance of the record, you’re really missing out. —Jessica McKinney

Darlene Love, "Christmas (Baby Please Come Home)"

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Darlene Love is an unmatched vocal powerhouse, and in “Christmas (Baby Please Come Home),” her raw emotion and unbridled energy demand our attention. Though she may be begging her lover to return to her, Love’s punchy delivery and the lush orchestration behind her sound anything but forlorn. The song perfectly showcases the stunning strength, power, and force that the criminally underrated Love has brought to her music over the course of her nearly 60-year career. —Sophia Stewart

John Legend f/ Kelly Clarkson, "Baby, It's Cold Outside"

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Years of controversy surrounded the 1983 version of “Baby It’s Cold Outside” due to lyrics that romanticized sexual assault. The song was almost pulled from radio airwaves and holiday compilation projects, but then John Legend swooped in with his spin on the classic record. Instead of those old questionable lyrics that would warrant side eyes in any party today, Legend and his featured guest, Kelly Clarkson reimagine the track with refreshing and holiday-friendly lyrics. Aside from the lyrical facelift, Legend and Clarkson make the perfect duet all-around. Their vocals are equally soulful and contemporary, making for a romantic holiday classic. —Jessica McKinney

She & Him, "The Christmas Waltz"

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She & Him strikes the perfect balance of quirkiness and tenderness in their stripped-down rendition of “The Christmas Waltz.” It’s earnestly sung and beautifully accompanied, and there’s little more you could ask for in a Christmas song. This standout cover—a simple, touching well-wish that instantly soothes, warms, and comforts all at once—is perfect for quiet moments by the fire, sipping hot cocoa, or snuggling with your someone. —Sophia Stewart

Band Aid, "Do They Know It's Christmas?"

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Band Aid’s “Do They Know It’s Christmas?” definitely isn’t subtle, but when you’re trying to get lethargic Americans to help combat famine in Ethiopia, some hitting-over-the-head is required. It’s occasionally bleak and often heavy-handed, but it’s an undeniably danceable ’80s relic that did a lot of good. Thanks to the participation of icons like Boy George, Bono, and George Michael, the song raised $14 million for famine relief in Africa and gave Christmas lovers a new, weirdly guilt-inducing holiday jam. —Sophia Stewart

Tyler, the Creator f/ Ryan Beatty & Santigold, “Lights On”

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Tyler, the Creator took his collab with Illumination Studios on The Grinch one step further in November when he released a six-song EP inspired by the new adaptation of Dr. Seuss’ ornery green Christmas villain. The standout track, “Lights On,” is a dazzling tune that features Ryan Beatty’s luscious falsetto and Santigold’s signature rhythmic synth vocals. Pair them with a verse from Tyler and a melodic beat that could easily pass as an ‘80s dance number, and you have this refreshingly crisp take on classic Christmas music. You’re an odd one, Mr. Creator. —Mallorie List

Pentatonix, “Carol of the Bells”

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With enough holiday music to fuel an entire holiday party, Pentatonix were bound to wind up on this list with one of their many covers of classic Christmas songs. Their version of “Carol of the Bells” turned one of the most grandiose Christmas songs ever written into a harmonious acapella number, and proved that a cacophony of bells and whistles (the instruments, not the idiom) aren’t needed to make drive home a powerful Christmas anthem. —Mallorie List

The Polyphonic Spree, "Happy Xmas (War Is Over)"

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You can always count on The Polyphonic Spree to infuse their special brand of spirit into any song they cover (heck, they made Nirvana’s “Lithium” into a poppy anthem). So it’s no surprise that their cover of John Lennon’s didactic “Happy Xmas (War Is Over)” completely revitalizes the track, applying a choral rock treatment to capture the joyful pulp at the song’s center. With nearly 25 members, the super-group enriches the song with orchestral beauty, adding in mandolin, harp, cello, and a smile-inducing vocal arrangement. This joy factory of a band’s perfect spin on a classic will have you feeling festive in no time. —Sophia Stewart

Ella Fitzgerald, "Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas"

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Most covers of “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas” are, let’s be real, total snooze-fests. But with Ella Fitzgerald, one of the world’s greatest vocalists, at the helm, the song gets a transformative lift. Her jazz expertise, unparalleled vocal control, and effortless style elevate the composition, masterfully transforming it into an irresistible, intoxicating, and sensuous tune that demands to be danced to. —Sophia Stewart

Jackson 5, "I Saw Mommy Kissing Santa Claus"

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The Jackson 5’s rendition of “I Saw Mommy Kissing Santa Claus” is a nostalgic reminder of why we all fell in love with Michael Jackson in the first place. At just 12 years old, Jackson sounds pure, joyful, and confident beyond his years. His sheer vocal power is astounding; he belts with ease, hits superhuman notes, and boasts the control of a seasoned pro. The other Jackson brothers’ delightful back-up vocals and Michael’s charming spoken interludes seal the deal. For a Christmas tune that’s undeniably groovy and irresistibly adorable, look no further. —Sophia Stewart

Smokey Robinson and The Miracles, “I’ll Be Home for Christmas”

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Nothing makes holiday music more tolerable than the sweet, serenading vocals of Smokey Robinson and The Miracles. This soulful blend of R&B and Motown sounds made for the perfect rendition of Bing Crosby’s classic song. Every aspect of “I’ll Be Home for Christmas” is harmonious and smooth, right down to the doo-wops. It’s enough to make you feel nostalgic, even if you have nothing to feel nostalgic about. —Mallorie List

Wham!, "Last Christmas"

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Let’s just call “Last Christmas” what it is: the ultimate Christmas bop. With an irresistible beat, poppy synths, and honey-rich vocals (courtesy of the incomparable George Michael, who passed away on Christmas Day of 2016), this classic ’80s tale of holiday heartbreak is timeless. It’s got the essential components of a great Christmas song (i.e. a catchy hook and sleigh bells), but its bittersweet lyrics and emotional delivery elevate it from the rest of the holiday canon. An undeniably brilliant pop song and a guaranteed winner at any holiday party, “Last Christmas” remains unrivaled as the best modern Christmas song ever. —Sophia Stewart

Ariana Grande, “Wit It This Christmas”

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“Wit It This Christmas” is sort of a deep cut from Ariana Grande’s highly-acclaimed holiday EP, Christmas & Chill, but the slow-burning ballad still deserves a lot of attention. The track is sexier than you’d imagine most Christmas songs to be, with Ari singing, “We don’t need no fireplace/Boy, I’ll keep you nice and warm, hey/Are you down for some of these milk and cookies.” Still, the pop singer manages to keep the track to a PG-13 rating. Besides the lyrical content, Grande’s high-pitched vocals and harmonies are exactly the soothing sounds we want to hear during a night cuddled up by the fireplace. —Jessica McKinney

Beach Boys, "Little Saint Nick"

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Hearing The Beach Boys sing about Santa putting the pedal to the metal in his sleigh (which is apparently also called Saint Nick?) is definitely an unexpected treat. For some inexplicable reason, “Little Saint Nick” is just undeniable Christmas fun. Whether it’s because of those signature Beach Boy harmonies or that incessantly festive jangle of sleigh bells, the song feels lush and warm and cozy on cold Christmas days. Plus, it will never cease to amaze us that just two years before the release of their seminal masterpiece Pet Sounds, The Beach Boys were describing Santa Claus as a “real famous cat dressed up in red.” —Sophia Stewart

Kay Starr, "The Man With The Bag"

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“The Man With the Bag” is undoubtedly one of the most underrated holiday songs. It’s got the same big-band feel and Santa-centric lyrics of other Christmas classics, but is rarely held in the same esteem. The song itself is excellent; the jazzy arrangement, flamboyant brass, and irresistible melody affirm that. But it’s Kay Starr—who Billie Holliday once called “the only white woman who could sing the blues”—that really makes the record shine. Her vocal delivery is playful yet controlled, classic but delectable, and serves as the key ingredient for this perfect Christmas romp. —Sophia Stewart

The Supremes, "My Favorite Things"

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Turning a Broadway standard into a Christmas classic is no easy feat, but The Supremes did just that with “My Favorite Things” from The Sound of Music. Taking cues from John Coltrane’s 1961 rendition of the song, The Supremes reimagine “My Favorite Things” as a jazzy, syncopated, and richly orchestrated celebration of the little things in life. With Diana Ross’ dainty voice in the foreground, pitch-perfect backing vocals, and heavenly instrumentation, this take on the Rogers and Hammerstein standard is wonderfully lively and refreshing. —Sophia Stewart

Carla Morrison, "Noche de Paz"

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“Noche de Paz,” the Spanish-language translation of “Silent Night,” has been covered by countless artists, but none manage to approach the song with the tenderness and delicacy of Mexican songstress Carla Morrison. The sparse arrangement showcases Morrison’s chill-inducing voice, leaving you hanging on her every syllable (whether or not you speak Spanish). For your quiet, cozy Christmas moments—whether it be with loved ones or a little alone time—this song is the perfect companion. —Sophia Stewart  

Bing Crosby & David Bowie, “Peace on Earth/Little Drummer Boy”

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This unconventional collaboration between polar-opposite icons Bing Crosby and David Bowie has become a holiday classic, but it almost didn’t happen. Crosby and Bowie were originally slated to just sing “Little Drummer Boy” together, but Bowie hated the song and demanded to sing something different, so a couple of staff songwriters whipped up the lovely counterpoint “Peace on Earth” in less than an hour. Bowie loved it, sang it, and the rest is—still sort of surreal—history. With their lovely but contrasting voices, the duo’s blending of Christmas songs old and new makes for an unforgettable holiday duet. —Sophia Stewart

Mickey Rooney and Kennan Wynn, "Put One Foot In Front of the Other"

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Featured in the classic 1970 TV movie Santa Claus Is Comin’ to Town, “Put One Foot in Front of the Other” may not explicitly be a Christmas song, but it’s literally sung by Kris Kringle himself, so it deserves inclusion. Mickey Rooney lends his hearty voice to some of the most comforting and uplifting lyrics in modern memory—so inspiring, in fact, that they manage to melt the Winter Warlock’s icy exterior. Thus, this song’s not only a delightful holiday tune, but also a very effective personal mantra. —Sophia Stewart

Sufjan Stevens, "Put The Lights On The Tree"

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When he’s not revisiting childhood trauma or singing about serial killers, singer-songwriter Sufjan Stevens is making some of the best Christmas music around. Over the past decade, Stevens has released 100 Christmas songs, both covers and originals. Among this vast collection, “Put the Lights on the Tree” stands out in particular. The song mixes Stevens’ signature sad-boy sound with a pure sweetness that is sure to make your heart grow a few sizes. With its joyful interludes, lovely choral call-and-response, and reminder to “call your grandma on the phone,” this brief burst of love and warmth is sure to summon the holiday spirit. —Sophia Stewart

Kacey Musgraves and Leon Bridges, “Present Without A Bow”

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It’s no Golden Hour, but Kacey Musgraves’ 2016 holiday album, A Very Kacey Christmas, has its fair share of festive bops. “Present Without A Bow” is a melodious blend of that tepid country, timeless Christmas polka, and soul stylings, which were undoubtedly infused by modern Motown’s crowned king Leon Bridges. Musgraves’ silky tone and Bridges’ aching R&B vocals would be a match made in Heaven on just about any love song, but this up-tempo Christmas ballad is the cross-section of each of their unique styles. —Mallorie List

Justin Bieber f/ Busta Rhymes, “Drummer Boy”

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The original “Drummer Boy” might not connect with all listeners in 2019, but with Justin singing the old tune, you’re bound to change your mind. On the track, JB builds slowly but eventually erupts into R&B-fused ad-libs and rapid-fire raps. “I only spit heat because I’m playin’ for the Son,” he spits over a hypnotic, uptempo beat. Bieber later gets an assist from Busta Rhymes, who lays down tongue-twisting bars. It’s definitely a holiday song for the under 21 crowd, but this record is still worth a spin. —Jessica McKinney

Joni Mitchell, "River"

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Whether or not Joni Mitchell’s “River” is a holiday song may be debatable, but what’s unequivocal is the brilliance of this emotional tour-de-force. Mitchell’s lyrical genius, lilting tone, and compositional mastery are all on display, making for a stunning acoustic ballad. By distorting the opening melody of “Jingle Bells” to a minor key and referencing holiday scenery, this heart-wrenching confessional easily doubles as a heart-wrenching Christmas song. Mitchell herself even once said, “We needed a sad Christmas song, didn’t we?” —Sophia Stewart

Chuck Berry, “Run Rudolph Run”

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Another unforgettable Christmas banger, Chuck Berry’s blues rock hit “Run Rudolph Run” is the quick-step bop that gives “Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer” a run for its money. That swinging American Bandstand melody never tires, and Berry’s unmistakable voice makes this a top contender for one of the most fun Christmas songs that doesn’t involve any of the silly call-and-response antics adored by small children everywhere. Instead, it works perfectly well as a jivey little rock song featuring that archetypal blues guitar riff we all know and love, and it’s sure to make a great soundtrack to any holiday shopping montage you can imagine. —Mallorie List

Eartha Kitt, "Santa Baby"

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Not only has “Santa Baby” been covered ad nauseam, but it always seems to be covered incompetently. The countless artists who have attempted to tackle the song try too hard to either be pouty, sexy, infantile, or a disturbing combination of all three. That’s why nothing rivals the flawless original, delivered masterfully by the incomparable Eartha Kitt. Controlled, withholding, and effortlessly cool, Kitt nails the essence of the song. There’s no resorting to a baby voice and no excessive feminine wiles; she’s clearly above that. Kitt’s not asking Santa for anything—she’s telling him. It’s sheer perfection. —Sophia Stewart

John Legend, “Silver Bells”

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John Legend finally unleashed a Christmas album on the world, and like a candy cane falling off your Christmas tree and hitting the hardwood floor, it snaps. Though he included a few original numbers, Legend’s rendition of “Silver Bells” is a breath of fresh air. This cover feels like the result of Frank Sinatra’s swing sharing a glass of eggnog with The Temptations’ R&B funk. Legend took what is arguably one of the most drab Christmas songs and added his signature jazz drip, and it pays off immensely. —Mallorie List

Bruce Springsteen, "Santa Claus Is Comin' To Town"

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First recorded at a concert on Long Island in 1975, Bruce Springsteen’s rock ‘n’ roll take on “Santa Claus Is Comin’ to Town” is unbridled, all-American holiday fun. It’s dynamic, punchy, and uncompromisingly great, proving that The Boss can make any song sound like a classic rock anthem. For extra fun, listen to the end (around 3:27) to catch Bruce laugh through some of the last lyrics during Clarence Clemons’ Santa impersonation. It’s an instant infusion of Christmas joy. —Sophia Stewart

Queen, “Thank God It’s Christmas”

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Freddie Mercury’s voice was made for two things: power ballads and this slow rock ditty about Christmas. Aligning perfectly with the British stadium-rock sound that Queen was known for, “Thank God It’s Christmas” is a beautifully produced number that once again showcases Mercury’s inexplicable vocal ability. With a simple yet effective hook and tastefully subtle jingle bells, this is a Christmas song you could easily get away with listening to year round. —Mallorie List

Ariana Grande, “True Love”

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Christmas would be meaningless if we didn’t show mad love for the people we care about the most—and one Miss Ariana Grande is no exception. Grande remodified “The Twelve Days of Christmas” for her 2016 Christmas & Chill EP with “True Love,” turning a classic Christmas song into a twinkling R&B blended masterpiece without sacrificing her pop roots. The synth chords in the chorus’ rolling beat are the perfect replacement for your stereotypical jingle bell sounds, and make for a dreamy soundtrack to any Winter Wonderland. —Mallorie List

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