Christmas music classics are a staple. The familiar melodies radiate beams of warmth and nostalgia—until they are overplayed. At this point, smiles turn to grimaces and the skip button struggles to keep up. A simple solution to early Christmas music burnout, then, is to add some variety to your holiday playlists. Here are ten refreshing festive tracks to get you started:
- “Jingle Bells” by Lauren Daigle
Lauren Daigle’s Christmas album gives off the impression of a 1920’s holiday jazz dance. She offers innovative twists on Christmas classics, with her rendition of “Jingle Bells” emanating vitality and good-natured fun.
- “Sleigh Ride” by Tori Kelly
Tori Kelly’s pop alternative to the well-known “sleigh ride” will get heads nodding and feet tapping in no time—a recipe for being put on repeat.
- “Cuddle Up and Cozy Down” by Dolly Parton and Michael Bublé
A little dose of country Christmas music helps nourish the holiday spirit. This song by Dolly Parton is simply precious, and Michael Bublé’s smooth duet only enhances the mood of it. You’ll want a fireplace nearby when playing this one.
- “Hallelujah” by Carrie Underwood and John Legend
Carrie Underwood and John Legend blend their powerful, clear voices to create a beautiful Christmas lullaby that can easily evoke tears or induce a peaceful sleep.
- “Amazing Grace (My Chains Are Gone)” by Pentatonix
Of course, Pentatonix has to be included in the line-up of modern Christmas music tracks. Their new version of “Amazing Grace,” is sung in a captivating acapella performance—the kind where the listener is plunged into newer depths of the song every time they listen to it.
- “Go Tell it on the Mountain” by For King and Country and Gabby Barrett
For King and Country’s distinct melody and serene voices showcased in this song can be compared to being taken to another world. They are not known to disappoint.
- “Miracle of Love” by Christ Tomlin
Chris Tomlin’s new Christmas album is entirely fitting—especially his song “Miracle of Love”—since it was written at the time that he and his wife found out that they are pregnant!
- “We Wish You the Merriest” by Idina Menzel and Josh Gad
Few Christmas songs can boast such a dynamic duo. The voices of Elsa and Olaf come together to create an upbeat and jazzy Christmas song that can instantly brighten a mood.
- “Take Me Home for Christmas” by Dan & Shay
This song is like a Christmas rendition of “10,000 Hours.” Its chill vibes and pleasant sound make it easy to play in the background while decorating the tree.
- “You’re a Mean One, Mr. Grinch” by Lindsey Stirling
Lindsey Stirling can take a violin and make mouths drop in seconds. That is exactly what this version of “You’re a Mean One, Mr. Grinch” will do. Give it a listen and find out for yourself.
