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

The music scene of the ’80s has a kind of sparkling image, whether we’re talking about Western music or Japanese music.

Given that era, it’s only natural that countless classic Christmas songs were born around the most glamorous and romantic event of the year.

While Japan and the West view Christmas somewhat differently, this article showcases many Western Christmas songs that were hits in the 1980s.

From those perennial standards you hear in Japan every holiday season to lesser-known hidden gems and covers of standards, we’ve gathered a wide range—from sweet tunes to slightly bittersweet numbers—to bring you a comprehensive lineup!

Christmas songs from 80s Western music: from hits to hidden gems (’81–’90)

Hard Candy Christmas 1982Dolly Parton

🎅 Dolly Parton – Hard Candy Christmas 1982
Hard Candy Christmas 1982Dolly Parton

“Hard Candy Christmas” is a song written by composer and lyricist Carol Hall for the Texas musical The Best Little Whorehouse.

Later, the song was released as a single and reached the Top 10 on the U.S.

singles chart in November 1982.

Merry Merry ChristmasNew Kids On The Block

The title track from the Christmas album “Merry, Merry Christmas,” released by New Kids On The Block in 1989.

It’s a song that came out as the idol group, formed in their teens, entered their twenties and began to take on a more mature vibe, which is reflected in the music as well.

The English lyrics are easy for Japanese listeners to remember, and the clear, repetitive chorus leaves a strong impression.

Silent NightBros

Around 1988, it became a mellow song that showcases Bros’ beautiful vocals.

Despite what their appearance might suggest, they deliver an exceptionally pure singing voice.

With its slow melody, it’s perfect for listening closely and taking it all in.

Same Old Lang SyneDan Fogelberg

Dan Fogelberg – Same Old Lang Syne (from Live: Greetings from the West)
Same Old Lang SyneDan Fogelberg

“Same Old Lang Syne” embraces the bittersweet feelings of reuniting with an old lover at Christmas.

The title is said to come from “Auld Lang Syne,” which is quoted at the end of the song.

It’s a track by Dan Fogelberg, an American singer-songwriter whose lyrical charm made him popular from the 1970s to the 1980s.

The lyrics, based on Dan’s real-life experience, evoke scenes so vivid they seem to unfold right before your eyes.

Sometimes, even when you meet again, it can feel awkward and hard to start a conversation—but a relationship where you can talk things through, like in this song, feels truly wonderful.

Those who’ve had a similar experience may find themselves drawn in even more deeply.

A poignant yet romantic Christmas song.

Winter WonderlandEurythmics

Eurythmics are a British musical duo known as a leading group in blue-eyed soul and synth-pop.

Thanks to the use of their signature song “Sweet Dreams” in X-MEN, even younger listeners may be familiar with them.

Although they’re strongly associated with cool, innovative tracks, they’ve actually covered a classic Christmas song as well—Winter Wonderland.

Of course, it’s not just a straightforward cover; it’s arranged with their distinctive sound, making it an irresistible track for fans of synth-pop and blue-eyed soul.