It’s finally the time of year when we are allowed to listen to the cheerful Christmas favorites. But, everyone has different tastes in music, so how could we all like the same ones? As I have noticed over time, Christmas songs don’t need to be a certain genre of music to be listened to. Although they may overplay the same ones, we still love them all. They feel nostalgic bringing back memories from our childhood and even more meaningful for the current children. Let’s talk about  the top Christmas songs that everyone knows the lyrics to and will always be holiday favorites. 

I will start with “All I want for Christmas is you” by Mariah Carey. Hearing this song for the first time in a year usually gives a sign everyone should get ready for the holidays, and romantic love spreads around. The vocals of her voice to the jingles played in the song get people excited for all the presents under the fresh-smelling pine tree, hot cocoa by the warm fire watching some of our Christmas movies, and even the excitement of the New Year is so close. 

“Rockin ‘Around the Christmas Tree” by Brenda Lee and “Santa Claus is Coming to Town” by Eddy Arnold are both old songs that will always stay special. It brings back the oldies with the sound of static in the background. These songs are also featured in movies such as Home Alone and Elf!

I think I can speak for all the seniors feeling bittersweet knowing this will be their last Christmas as “a child”. Many of us are feeling sad about our last holiday spent at home but excited about what our next chapter brings. The popular ‘80s song “Last Christmas” describes the feeling of leaving home but what’s exciting to come. George Michael does talk about love in this song, but sleigh bells and synths make this happy.

Some of the melancholy songs that might bring tears or capture the feeling of love during these times could be “The Christmas Song” by Nat King Cole or some of Frank Sinatra’s classics such as “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas” or “Silent Night”. There is also no better way to say Christmas than “Feliz Navidad”. 

I could name so many more songs that bring joy to everyone throughout the holidays. As you’re driving, tune your radio to the Christmas station or even press play on your music app! Each different song is unique, but each song brings out the same special feeling of the holidays. Listening to these songs is my favorite part of the holidays, making them  even more special.