Christmas songs from 80s Western music: from hit tracks to hidden gems

When a Child Is BornJohnny Mathis

Johnny Mathis – When a Child Is Born (from Home for Christmas)

Johnny Mathis is a popular singer who enjoyed immense popularity throughout the 1950s and 1960s with his catchy musical style.

Although he created many classic songs, he had no major hits after entering the 1970s.

The song that sparked a resurgence in his career was “When a Child Is Born.” Its lyrics center on the birth of Jesus, and while it is considered popular music overseas, it is also cherished like a hymn.

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Santa BabyMadonna

MADONNA – SANTA BABY

Madonna, an artist who achieved worldwide popularity from the 1980s through the 1990s with her flashy fashion style and musicality.

When it comes to her Christmas songs, many people probably think of Santa Baby.

Although it’s often assumed to be her song, it originally belongs to Eartha Kitt, who was also active as a burlesque dancer.

Both versions emphasize a sexy image and are crafted as adult-oriented works.

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I ‘ll Be Missing You Come ChristmasNew Kids On The Block

New Kids on the Block-I ‘ll Be Missing You Come Christmas

A track included on the Christmas album released around 1989, during New Kids on the Block’s peak popularity.

It’s a gentle, slow Christmas song with a steady vocal performance that makes for a calm, easy listen.

Happy XmasSarah McLachlan

Sarah McLachlan – Happy Xmas (War Is Over) (Clear Channel Stripped Raw and Real)

I love this song.

Sarah McLachlan sings it with a wonderful arrangement.

“Happy Xmas (War Is Over)” is still a classic Christmas song, and I think you still hear it often around town.

It’s a nostalgic cover.

Hazy Shade of WinterThe Bangles

The Bangles – Hazy Shade Of Winter (Official Audio)

In the 1980s, The Bangles were a girls’ band that gained popularity around the world.

Their Hazy Shade of Winter stands out from typical Christmas songs with an exceptionally cool sound.

The arrangement is vastly different from the original Simon & Garfunkel version, making it a highly compelling listen.

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Father ChristmasThe Kinks

Father Christmas

Like the Beatles, The Kinks are considered one of the groups that sparked the British Invasion.

Their song “Father Christmas” is a Christmas tune with a refreshing feel.

Be sure to check it out.

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Santa’s BeardThey Might Be Giants

They Might Be Giants – Santa’s Beard (Official Audio)

Despite its festive Christmas atmosphere, this song creates a striking contrast with its irony-laden lyrics and upbeat melody.

Included on the 1988 album “Lincoln,” it perfectly blends They Might Be Giants’ signature humor with seriousness.

Its quirky narrative portrays a man jealous of his wife’s cozy rapport with Santa Claus, offering a unique perspective on Christmas traditions.

It’s a great pick not only for fans of the band but also for those tired of typical Christmas songs.

With sardonic laughs, it also captures the subtleties of human relationships.