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100 Most Popular Christmas Songs of All Time

The holiday season is here once again! The joy of the long year coming to a conclusion and the anticipation of a new and promising year add Christmas to this merry and you have the best period of the year (generally speaking of course). 

Talking about Christmas, nothing quite encompasses the merriness of this occasion like Christmas songs and tunes. For as long as Christmas has been celebrated, people have sung Christmas songs. Some have stood the test of time being replayed on every holiday and are certified classics. Others were just perennial hits that brought joy for a short period but fell to the mettle of the Holiday season.

We all Love Christmas music and we appreciate it’s different in a very endearing way. In a few words, it can be described as simultaneously saddening and comforting at the same time while invoking personal, nostalgic, and or romantic feelings and 鈥榲ibes.鈥�

To this end, we took it upon ourselves to provide you with a list of 100 of the most popular Christmas songs of all time to add to your merry playlist. Whether you鈥檙e in a sulky, festive, introspective mood, or whether you鈥檙e into classic rock, R&B, hip hop, or pop, we鈥檝e got something for you. Enjoy!

100. Kathleen Battle, “O Holy Night”

Kathleen Battle is an Opera legend and O Holy Night is a Christmas number to remind you of just that in the comfort of your home. She produced this masterpiece, a Soprano opera rendition of “O Holy Night” which will literally give you chills!

99. The Emotions, “What Do the Lonely Do at Christmas?” 

Yes, it鈥檚 known as the festive season but sadly it’s not all that festive for everyone. A sad but realistic take reminding you to check on your friends and loved ones if they鈥檙e not with you for the festivities. A classic that has stood the test of time. It peaked at No.2 on the Billboard R&B/Hip-Hop Airplay Recurrents chart in 2006.

98. The Chipmunks, “The Chipmunk Song (Christmas Don’t Be Late)”

Originally released in 1959, this absolute banger was popularized even more by the release of the Alvin and the Chipmunks Christmas movie trilogy. So, get some helium (if you can) and sing along!

97. Lindsey Stirling Featuring Becky G, “Christmas Come On”

An odd selection to include in a 鈥淕reatest鈥� songs list but hear me out! Stirling鈥檚 singing and performance of the song are only second to the violin which is arguably the star. However, Becky G also sings her heart out to complete the song. I鈥檓 backing it to become a classic with time.

96. The Temptations, “Silent Night”

The original 鈥楽ilent Night鈥� was produced in 1818. However, The Temptations produced a more popular soulful interpretation of the original with gospel undertones wishing a 鈥淢erry Christmas鈥� to their listeners. 42 years later and it鈥檚 still as relevant and beautiful.

95. Danny Kaye and the Andrews Sisters, “A Merry Christmas at Grandmother’s House” 

Christmas time is usually time for family. This more often than not means convening at your grandparent鈥檚 house, whom you probably haven鈥檛 seen or talked to in a while. This song will be handy on such an occasion or on a long drive or in traffic.

94. Kirk Franklin & The Family, “Jesus Is the Reason for the Season”

Kirk Franklin is one of the most renowned gospel artists of his generation. On this Christmas number, he takes the opportunity to remind us that it鈥檚 a birthday celebration.

93. Carrie Underwood, “Stretchy Pants”

鈥淚 have a fork in my hand, ready to stuff my face.鈥� A line that more than anything explains Christmas. But the song is about more than Christmas meals, it’s about getting comfortable and having fun with your loved ones! A recent addition but definitely up there with the best of them.

92. DMX, “Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer” 

A true hip-hop legend, DMX, may he rest in peace. In probably one of his many strokes of genius, DMX turned a classic kid鈥檚 song by Johnny Marks with the same name into a Christmas hip-hop hit.

91. George Ezra, “Come on Home for Christmas” 

In his magnificent deep voice, Ezra brings this cover to life. The song covers Charles Brown鈥檚 “Please Come Home for Christmas”.

90. John Legend, “Bring Me Love” 

In 2018, Legend released his first and to date only Christmas album titled 鈥楢 Legendary Christmas鈥�. Bring Me Love is one of the standout songs on this album.

89. Sugarcult, “Santa Claus Is Coming to Town”

For the rock enthusiast, this one is for you. Sugarcult, deliver an energized and inspired take on the famous “Santa Claus Is Coming to Town.”

88. The Ramones, “Merry Christmas (I Don’t Want to Fight Tonight)”

Yet another rock addition to the list, the Ramones combine adorable anecdotes with their punk rock style to produce a cult classic.

87. Beach Boys, “Little Saint Nick”

The video features a jacked Santa on a sunny beach surfing with a bag of toys. However, don鈥檛 be fooled, this tune by Beach Boys will also work for you even if you鈥檙e covered in snow.

86. Tegan and Sara, “Make You Mine This Season”

Let鈥檚 be honest, you can listen to this one or play it for your significant other even in the middle of July. However, the 鈥榮eason鈥� in question is the Christmas season.

85. Kelly Clarkson, “Christmas Isn’t Canceled (Just You)”

This is a song for those who are angry and heartbroken during this merry season. It might be upbeat but Clarkson vents her frustration toward her ex-lover. Fun fact, this project was produced following her divorce from Brandon Blackstock.

84. The Beach Boys, “Santa’s Beard”

Has your kid started doubting the existence of Santa, The Beach Boys capture what it’s like to deal with this situation?

83. Amy Grant, “Grown-Up Christmas List”

Santa might carry gifts for children, but even as an adult, you鈥檙e allowed to have a list of your own. You might end up being the one to fulfill the list yourselves but you鈥檙e allowed to want to.

82. Jordin Sparks, “Christmastime to Me”

A modern pop Christmas song by the lovely and talented Jordin Sparks. A danceable and catchy tune that will brighten your day.

81. Queen, “Thank God It’s Christmas”

I mean, it’s Queen, and that by itself is an unrivaled stamp of quality. Just add it to your playlist.

80. Elmo n’ Patsy, “Grandma Got Run Over by a Reindeer”

Poor Grandma, she should be more like Grandpa. This satirical take is funny especially when you watch the video.

79. Ariana Grande, “Santa Tell Me”

The ever-cute and lovely Ariana blesses us with this bop for the season. Give it a listen and be the judge.

78. Pentatonix Feat. Tori Kelly, “Winter Wonderland/Don’t Worry Be Happy”

Whatever your opinion is of acapella, you have to appreciate what Pentatonix did on this one with the help of Tori. Just try not to feel merry, I dare you!

77. Fifth Harmony, “Can You See”

This is an entry from the popular Christmas movie 鈥楾he Star鈥�. Fifth Harmony provides a memorable performance that will get you in the Christmas mood.

76. Lauren Daigle, “Light of the World”

鈥樷��can you hear the angels singing,鈥� Lauren says in the song. I鈥檒l tell you this much, she sounds like one in this song.

75. Marvin Gaye, “I Want to Come Home for Christmas”

The song is written from the perspective of a soldier who wants to go home for Christmas. So, if you鈥檙e unable to be with loved ones due to work or travel issues I鈥檓 sure you鈥檒l relate (to some extent of course).

74. Smino feat. Monte Booker and Masego, “Sleigh”

Smino recruits Masego and Monte Booker for this Christmas tune perfect for a Christ Eve Party for adults. With mentions of drinking, dancing, and card games.

73. Trans-Siberian Orchestra, “Christmas Eve/Sarajevo 12/24”

If you鈥檙e a fan of the Popular TV Show 鈥楾he Office鈥� then you鈥檙e familiar with this one. (Spoiler Alert!) Dwight rocks out to this tune in spectacular fashion in the break room.

72. La Rondallita, “El Burrito Sabanero”

This is a Venezuelan folk song that will have you on your feet as soon as you hear the galloping beat. Unless you speak or understand the language, the only thing you might remember is 鈥渢uki tuki tuki鈥�. It tells the story of how the shepherds met at the birthplace of baby Jesus.

71. Britney Spears, “My Only Wish (This Year)鈥�

This early 2000s pop song while cheesy to some is incredibly catchy and will have you hooked from the first verse.

70. Destiny’s Child, “Carol of the Bells” (a.k.a. “Opera of the Bells”)

The beautiful ladies of Destiny鈥檚 child give us this rendition of the old Christmas carol 鈥淐arol of the Bells鈥�. The spirited vocals from the three of them will have you shaken and impressed.

69. The Kinks, “Father Christmas”

Let鈥檚 be honest, Christmas is expensive. The Kinks request Father Christmas to give them money and take the 鈥榮illy鈥� toys to the rich kids.

68. The Pogues, “Fairytale of New York”

If you feel a tad too happy this Christmas season and want to dial it down a notch, then The Pogues have a solution for you with this depressing track.

67. The Flaming Lips, “A Change at Christmas (Say It Isn’t So)”

Not your holly jolly Christmas tune this one. The Lips claim while the world is peaceful during this merry season, once the holiday season is over we are back to the old terrible ways. In the end, however, they claim, 鈥淚 think it鈥檚 all going to work out just fine.鈥�

66. Kate Bush, “December Will Be Magic Again”

Most people, mostly Gen Z and Millennials were introduced to Kate Bush thanks to 鈥楽tranger Things鈥� which featured her song Running Up That Hill. Kate鈥檚 magical voice and vocal range are on full display on this holiday number.

65. Fats Domino, “I’ll Be Home for Christmas”

This rock n鈥� roll tune has a classical New Orleans feel to it and will have you missing home if you鈥檙e not there for the holidays.

64. Dean Martin & Marilyn Maxwell, “Baby It’s Cold Outside”

Martin and Maxwell have a back-and-forth throughout the song in this sing-along staple during the holiday season. The song is controversial in some circles with some saying it’s creepy while others say it’s flirty. I鈥檒l let you decide for yourself.

63. Dej Loaf feat. Kodak Black, “All I Want for Christmas”

The tender keys and jingling bells on this track fit perfectly for both Dej Loaf and Kodak.

62. Carla Morrison, “Jes煤s”

A sentimental song that serves to remind us of the real meaning of Christmas.

61. Dolly Parton, “Hard Candy Christmas”

This is probably the only Christmas song set in a brothel. It was featured in the musical The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas. This song is a wistful ballad that reminds us to rise above our circumstances and be better since Santa will only bring Hard Candy.

60. The Ronettes, “Sleigh Ride”

鈥淚t’s lovely weather for a sleigh ride with you.鈥� This upbeat Christmas classic has a sped-up tempo that will have you dancing.

59. Perry Como, “(There’s No Place Like) Home For the Holidays”

A pure Americana Christmas tune. Perry鈥檚 deep voice brings the song alive explaining why spending time at home for Christmas is the best.

58. Simon & Garfunkel, “7 O鈥檆lock News/Silent Night”

This song while a rendition of a famous Christmas carol is much more a political statement than a carol. There is a retelling of 7 O Clock News highlights juxtaposed with the soothing vocals of Simon and Garfunkle.

57. De La Soul, “Millie Pulled a Pistol on Santa”

A gut-wrenching story of a young girl who fought back against Domestic Abuse that no one around her seems to believe. Not your typical Christmas song by any measure but the Christmas setting of the scenario is there and glaring.

56. Celine Dion, “O Holy Night”

Celine Dion does this famous song justice in this rendition. She starts softly and ends it with her ever-so-familiar power note.

55. Taylor Swift, “Christmas Tree Farm”

Taylor Swift blessed us with this pop Christmas song that is only made better by the heartwarming and sentimental video.

54. Destiny’s Child, “8 Days of Christmas”

Yet another entry from the beautiful Destiny鈥檚 child members. Their vocals will have you engaged throughout the entirety of the song.

53. Bryan Adams, “Christmas Time”

Canadian rock star delivers this Christmas performance in spectacular fashion.

52. Lil Nas X, “Holiday”

In pure rapper braggadocio fashion, Lil Nas X displays his Grammy awards as he dons a 鈥楽anta Beard鈥� in this track that will surely be revived every single holiday.

51. James Brown, “Santa Claus Go Straight to the Ghetto”

James Brown reminds us that we should help those in need. That is those who wake up to empty space under the tree.

50. Stevie Wonder, “Someday at Christmas”

Stevie takes this platform to address more dire issues around the globe. He pleads for the end of global conflict and freedom for all. The song was released in 1966 during the Vietnam war.

49. U2, “Christmas (Baby Please Come Home)”

BAAAAAABY PLEASE COME HOME! A song made for those who are 鈥榙own bad鈥� this Christmas season. More specifically those who are missing their significant others.

48. The Dropkick Murphys, “The Season’s Upon Us”

This one is definitely not for children. It鈥檚 for those who are meeting up with their quirky or even dysfunctional families.

47. Charles Brown / Johnny Moore’s Three Blazers, “Merry Christmas Baby”

This song was first recorded n 1947 by the group Johnny Moore’s Three Blazers. Charles Brown re-recorded it in 1956 after leaving the group. One of the lyrics on the song goes; 鈥淚 haven鈥檛 had a drink this morning / But I鈥檓 all lit up like a Christmas tree.鈥�

46. Michael Bubl茅, “It’s Beginning to Look a Lot Like Christmas”

Bubl茅 puts his own twist on this timeless that had previously been adopted by Perry Como and The Fontane Sisters. He makes the song gentler with his swelling jazz sound.

45. Prince, “Another Lonely Christmas”

The song has some over-the-top lyrics but Prince was in his element and manages to make it feel as genuine and serious as it could possibly get.

44. Jackson 5 – I Saw Mommy Kissing Santa Claus

In this Christmas song by The Jackson 5, they talk about the trauma of witnessing their mom make out with Santa. It might sound funny but it’s very traumatizing.

43. Fitz and the Tantrums, “Santa Stole My Lady”

If 鈥業 Saw Mommy Kissing Santa Claus鈥� by Jackson 5 was written from the perspective of the dad.

42. Sia, “Candy Cane Lane”

Off of her Christmas album titled 鈥楨veryday is Christmas鈥�, Sia鈥檚 stunning voice is the star in this catchy tune.

41. The Killers, “Don’t Shoot Me Santa”

The killers are regulars when it comes to releasing holiday season hits. However, “Don’t Shoot Me Santa” remains a fan favorite, and for good reason.

40. Taylor Swift, “Christmases When You Were Mine”

It’s amazing to think that Taylor released this hit at age 17. She delivers a heartbreaking performance that seems all too personal which adds to its intrigue.

39. Kanye West feat. CyHi da Prynce & Teyana Taylor, “Christmas in Harlem”

Okay, I know Kanye might not be your favorite person right now but his music catalog speaks for itself. The angelic Teyana Taylor鈥檚 voice accompanied by Kanye鈥檚 鈥榖ars鈥� bring together this song.

38. Elton John, “Step into Christmas”

In this playful tune, Elton John provides the perfect song for after you鈥檝e unwrapped your gifts and before politics becomes the main conversation.

37. Otis Redding, “Merry Christmas Baby”

This is a romantic and happy Christmas song that is delivered by Otis in his iconic gritty voice.

36. Frank Sinatra, “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas”

In this rendition, Sinatra puts a spin on the original adding and replacing a few lyrics to make it his own. He produces a captivating performance that will have you engaged.

35. Ella Fitzgerald, “Let It Snow! Let It Snow! Let It Snow!”

There is nothing December-specific about this tune. However, the nature of the song accompanied by Ella鈥檚 voice make it a classic holiday season song.

34. The Jackson 5, “Santa Claus Is Coming to Town”

12-year-old Michael Jackson is the star of this song. The Jackson 5 created a holiday classic that combines funk and bubble gum soul.

33. Justin Bieber, “Mistletoe”

Yeah, you鈥檝e definitely listened to this one. Teen heartthrob Bieber sings about a kiss under the mistletoe. He also displays unwavering Christian faith in the song.

32. Gene Autry, “Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer”

This song tells the story of a bullied reindeer that saves Christmas thanks to its red nose. The story is simple and relatable which is why it has remained a favorite for kids season after season.

31. Kurtis Blow, “Christmas Rapping”

Released in 1979, this disco groove is recognized as one of Christmas鈥� first rap singles. It quickly became a cultural staple and has been remembered since.

30. Paul McCartney, “Wonderful Christmastime”

This is a delightful and simple Christmastime tune whose simplicity makes it sentimental and all the more memorable.

29. Kelly Clarkson, “Underneath the Tree”

Underneath the tree, released in 2013, is a holiday classic despite only being released 9 years ago. The optimistic lyrics are hammered in by the big-band sound.

28. Stevie Wonder and Andra Day, “Someday at Christmas”

Stevie produced the original to this song. However, this duet with Andra Day is the only way the original could be bettered.

27. Lizzo, “Never Felt Like Christmas”

Lizzo falls in love with a man during Christmas and this romantic relationship enables her to fall in love with Christmas.

26. Andy Williams, “It’s the Most Wonderful Time of the Year”

Andy was spot on with this one. It is indeed the most wonderful time of the year. His impressive vocals on this merry tune have been used and adapted in various films.

25. C茅line Dion, “These Are the Special Times”

A touching tribute to the special holiday seasons that makes them feel even more special. Celine鈥檚 vocals on this song are impressive as always.

24. Stevie Wonder, “What Christmas Means to Me”

Stevie lists what he loves about the Christmas season and what it means to him. The song is off of his holiday season album from 1967 titled 鈥楽omeday at Christmas.鈥�

23. NSYNC, “Merry Christmas, Happy Holidays”

This is a perfect song for singing along to during the holiday season. Whether alone and doing chores or with family and friends.

22. Eartha Kitt with Henri Ren茅 and His Orchestra, “Santa Baby”

Kitt serenades her listeners in this seductive tune as she lists her Christmas Wishlist and urges Santa to hurry up. Released in 1953, Kitt’s sexual appeal as well as the song have surely stood the test of time.

21. Bobby Helms, “Jingle Bell Rock”

鈥楯ingle bell, jingle bell, jingle bell rock!鈥� This is one of the most feel-good Christmas tunes to date. Simple and catchy lyrics and well-timed guitar twangs make it an all-time great.

20. The Waitresses, “Christmas Wrapping”

As an adult, you鈥檒l definitely enjoy this but I wouldn鈥檛 recommend it for kids. Not that it’s graphic or sexually stimulated but a tad too real. The song talks of Christmas as just another thing an adult has to add to their already busy and exhausting schedule.

19. John Lennon & Yoko Ono, “Happy Xmas (War Is Over)”

John Lennon, may he rest in peace, is joined by his musical partner and wife Yoko Ono as they request peace in the midst of the Vietnam War in this Christmas tune.

18. Earth, Wind, and Fire, “December”

Do you remember September? Well, this is a holiday season rework of 鈥淪eptember鈥� by Earth Wind, and Fire.

17. Blink-182, “Not Another Christmas Song”

The song has some daunting and bummer lyrics but its upbeat tempo and catchy hook will have you dancing!

16. Judy Garland, “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas”

Generally, the holiday season is a happy season. However, this is not always the case and Judy Garland uses this track to deliver a melancholy yet hopeful ballad for those who can relate.

15. Elvis Presley, “Blue Christmas”

Blue Christmas had been used previously to great acclaim by Ernest Tubb and Russ Morgan. However, this rendition but Elvis Presley has stood out as the King of them all since its release.

14. Vince Guaraldi Trio, “Christmas Time Is Here”

This song/instrumental was introduced to the world on A Charlie Brown Christmas which is a 1965 Christmas TV special. It’s worth a listen and has been a holiday season staple since its release in 1965.

13. Low, “Just Like Christmas”

If you鈥檙e having a low-key Christmas, then this gem is perfect for you.

12. Michael Bubl茅, “The More You Give (The More You’ll Have)”

A true Bubl茅 special. This upbeat tune will have you in a good mood and dancing in no time.

11. Chuck Berry, “Run Rudolph Run”

Chuck Berry like all of us is quite impatient that Rudolph is taking too long to arrive. Reindeer do have to cover so much ground after all. He, therefore, suggests using the freeway in this whimsical tune.

10. Bruce Springsteen, “Santa Claus Is Coming to Town”

Bruce expresses his excitement in anticipation of the arrival of Santa Claus. It has been covered since its release in 1982 by the likes of The Jackson Five and Mariah Carey although none of them come close to this Springsteen special.

9. Luther Vandross, “The Mistletoe Jam (Everybody Kiss Somebody)”

If you find normal Christmas jingles a little too cheesy and, on the nose, or you just don鈥檛 like them, then this one is for you. It also has a funny introduction that will have you hooked from the word go.

8. Boney M., “Mary’s Boy Child”

Come on you鈥檝e heard this one, ‘long time ago, in Bethlehem, 鈥︹�� Boney M gives this danceable and very easy to sing alone tune in honor of baby Jesus. If ever there was a Christmas song made for Karaoke it’s this one.

7. Mariah Carey, “O Holy Night”

鈥淔all, on your knees, 鈥︹�� chills, literal chills, that鈥檚 all I鈥檒l say for this one!

6. Frank Sinatra, “I’ll Be Home for Christmas”

In this rendition of an all-time Christmas special, Sinatra reassures his loved ones that he will be home for Christmas. You can send it to your loved ones too if they keep hounding you for when you鈥檙e arriving.

5. Jos茅 Feliciano, “Feliz Navidad”

I know you were wondering when this classic would get a mention (if you know of it). It’s catchy and bilingual with a hypnotizing guitar and lyrics that you will find both childlike and heartfelt.

4. Nat King Cole, “The Christmas Song”

A timeless and festive Christmas song that despite many covers still remains the best version. All thanks to Cole鈥檚 smooth vocals and lyrics.

3. Darlene Love, “Christmas (Baby Please Come Home)”

This song by Love is the best track from what is regarded as the greatest holiday season album of all time. The album is called A Christmas Gift for You from Philles Records set (1963).

2. Brenda Lee, “Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree”

Fun Fact! Brenda Lee recorded this track at age 12 in 1958! 64 years later and this banger is still relevant and an undeniable holiday party starter.

1. Mariah Carey, “All I Want for Christmas Is You”

Chances are you called this one would be number 1. It might be a clich茅 at this point but as they say, there鈥檚 a reason why clich茅s are clich茅s. This song has ushered the Christmas season in every single year since its release in 1994. The theme of “All I Want for Christmas Is You” is wanting someone special for the holidays more than anything else.

There we have it! These are our picks for the most popular Christmas songs. Some decisions had to be made and I鈥檓 sure some popular and great songs have been left out. Anyway, in the immortal words of Hugh Martin and Ralph Blane, have yourself a merry little Christmas!