The Best Christmas Songs of All Time

First up on our list of the best Christmas songs is “Blue Christmas,” which is probably Elvis‘ most defining recording. Released in 1957, he transformed the country tune (originally recorded by Doye O’Dell in 1948) into a rock and roll Christmas staple.

Of course, Elvis infused the song with his signature blend of blues and country. It immediately resonated with audiences and continued increasing in popularity each Christmas season. And his version became so popular that many people forgot it wasn’t originally his song.

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As a newer addition to our list, released in October 2023, Sabrina Carpenter‘s “A Nonsense Christmas” put a playful, modern spin on the holiday love song. A festive remix of her viral hit “Nonsense,” this track kept the original’s cheeky humor and innuendos while adding plenty of Christmas-themed wordplay.

The song quickly became an immediate favorite amongst her young fan base. And while some Christmas purists definitely raised an eyebrow at its decidedly non-traditional approach, “A Nonsense Christmas” earned its spot on our list by bringing something fresh to the holiday music scene. It’s flirty, fun, and its clever lyrics make it one of those rare modern Christmas songs that you actually don’t mind hearing on repeat.

Next, with over 50 million copies sold worldwide, Bing Crosby‘s “White Christmas” remains not just the best-selling Christmas song of all time, but the best-selling single ever.

This iconic Christmas song was written by Irving Berlin for the 1942 film Holiday Inn. And, notably, its timing was perfect. American soldiers fighting in World War II connected deeply with its message of missing home during the holidays.

What made this song special wasn’t fancy jingle bells or complicated lyrics. Instead, just Bing Crosby singing about snow and Christmas cards. But somehow, it made everyone feel nostalgic for perfect holidays past. Even 80 years later, “White Christmas” still gives listeners that warm, cozy feeling that defines the season.

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Another one of the best Christmas songs of all time is “Last Christmas” by Wham! Released in 1984, this song took a different approach to holiday music. Instead of snow and Santa, George Michael wrote a story about heartbreak during the holidays. The song followed someone who gave their heart to someone special at Christmas, only to have it broken the very next day.

The track’s catchy chorus helped it become more than just another Christmas tune. I mean, you hear this one everywhere. The music video featuring George Michael and Andrew Ridgeley at a ski resort with friends became just as iconic as the song itself.

It’s both a perfect holiday pop song and a great breakup track. That’s why, nearly 40 years later, people of all ages sing along when those first notes start playing.

It wouldn’t be a list of the best Christmas songs without “Feliz Navidad” by José Feliciano. Released in 1970, this song broke all language barriers with its simple message.

And behind the song was an even stronger message. José Feliciano created the song with just 19 words – six in Spanish and 13 in English. Born blind in Puerto Rico, he wanted to write a Christmas song to unite people across cultures.

The infectious melody and easy-to-learn lyrics did exactly that. Even people who didn’t speak Spanish found themselves singing “Próspero año y felicidad” alongside “I want to wish you a Merry Christmas.” It became one of those rare songs that could instantly light up any room. No translation needed.

Next on our list is Dean Martin‘s “Baby, It’s Cold Outside.” Written by Frank Loesser in 1944, the song gained new life when Martin’s voice brought his signature charm to the winter romance in 1959. The track quickly became a holiday favorite.

Despite recent debates about its lyrics, the song started as a party piece Loesser wrote to perform with his wife at their home parties. Martin’s take on it captured that same spirit of flirty fun, with the male and female vocals dancing around each other. Even today, when the song plays during Christmas time, you’re usually hearing Dean’s version.

While she’s in the headlines for Wicked right now, Ariana Grande‘s “Santa Tell Me” is another one of the best Christmas songs. Released in 2014, the song brought a fresh R&B twist to the Christmas music scene.

With her signature vocal runs and a catchy chorus, the track bridged the gap between traditional holiday songs and contemporary pop. Young audiences especially connected with its mix of Christmas magic and real-world romance.

Years after its release, just like “A Nonsense Christmas,” “Santa Tell Me” is the perfect example of creating a new holiday classic for a new generation.

Duh! We had to include “All I Want For Christmas Is You” by Mariah Carey, too! When it dropped in 1994, nobody knew it would become such a huge holiday hit. The catchy beat and Mariah’s famous high notes helped it overtake old Christmas classics, becoming the most-streamed holiday song ever.

Mariah and Walter Afanasieff wrote it in just 15 minutes but spent months ensuring every detail was perfect. She added sleigh bells, backup singers, and those vocal runs we all try (and fail) to copy. Every year, when December hits, you can count on hearing it absolutely everywhere.

Her nickname as the “Queen of Christmas” isn’t just hype. The song has also made her over $60 million, still topping the charts every holiday season.

Another holiday classic is Brenda Lee‘s “Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree.” Initially recorded in 1958, Lee was just 13 years old at the time. Unlike some mellower Christmas songs, this upbeat tune brought more of a rock and roll energy to Christmas music.

When this song was released, no one could believe such a big voice came from a teenager. The song also got a huge boost when it was featured in Home Alone in 1990, finding a whole new generation of fans.

In 2023, on the 65th anniversary, Lee released a new music video featuring cameos by country stars Tanya Tucker and Trisha Yearwood.

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Capping our list of the best Christmas songs of all time is “Christmas (Baby Please Come Home)” by Darlene Love. When Phil Spector produced the song in 1963, he wanted to make the ultimate Christmas record. Love’s powerful voice and emotional delivery made it truly unforgettable.

The song told a simple story. Someone misses their love during Christmas time. The streets are decorated. The snow is falling. But nothing feels right without that special person there.

Through the years, the song has gained more fans. David Letterman had Love perform it every Christmas on his show for 29 years straight. And even U2 and Mariah Carey covered it. Love’s recording captured all the joy and heartache of missing someone during the holidays, making it the perfect song to cap our list of the best Christmas songs of all time.

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