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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!

80s Western Christmas songs: from hit tracks to hidden gems (51–60)

Christmas WrappingThe Waitresses

Christmas Wrapping is a song by the American new wave band the Waitresses, contributed to the 1981 compilation album A Christmas Record.

The lyrics, delivered at a very rapid pace from the perspective of a woman who’s too busy to make any plans for Christmas, are said to play on the double meaning of “wrapping” and “rapping.” The sound is a very poppy, upbeat tune, and with the ending where she happens to run into the guy she’s been interested in, it all adds up to a very happy Christmas song.

Christmas At Ground Zero“Weird Al” Yankovic

This is a Christmas song in the style of a Christmas carol by parody master “Weird Al” Yankovic, with pitch-black humor.

Even if you don’t understand English, watching the music video makes it easy to imagine it’s about something pretty awful.

An Old Fashioned ChristmasCarpenters

The Carpenters are a duo that’s also very popular in Japan.

They were active from the 1970s until vocalist Karen Anne Carpenter’s death in 1983.

Because rock music was booming in the 1970s when they were active, their pop music didn’t attract much popularity at first.

However, by consistently staying true to their musical style, they gradually gained fans and are still loved by many people today.

An Old-Fashioned Christmas is a signature track from their second Christmas album, released after Karen’s passing.

The Holly and The IvyGeorge Winston

“The Holly and The Ivy,” a masterpiece by George Winston, one of the most famous pianists in the United States.

It’s a piece that emphasizes the New Age (healing) style he excels at.

In the latter part, sounds influenced by R&B and jazz make an appearance.

Christmas songs from 80s Western music: from hit tracks to hidden gems (61–70)

The 12 Pains of ChristmasBob Rivers

Bob Rivers – The 12 Pains of Christmas
The 12 Pains of ChristmasBob Rivers

This is a track from a Christmas album released by Bob Rivers, a popular American radio DJ and comedian.

Although his own vocal parts are quite limited, the arrangement exudes Bob Rivers’s personality and makes listeners feel cheerful.

Love Is AllAir Supply

It’s a hidden gem by Air Supply, notable for its sweet melody and heartwarming lyrics.

Graham Russell’s delicate vocals gently speak to the wonder of love.

Featured on their 1987 Christmas album, the song carries the sparkling sheen characteristic of the ’80s while delivering a timeless message of love.

The chorus’s recurring phrase, “Love is everything,” really resonates with listeners.

It’s perfect not only for the Christmas season but also for moments when you want to feel the bond with someone special.

Highly recommended for those who want to immerse themselves in Air Supply’s signature harmonies and romantic world.

The Best Christmas of Them AllShakin’ Stevens

Shakin’ Stevens – The Best Christmas of Them All
The Best Christmas of Them AllShakin' Stevens

Shakin’ Stevens is a singer-songwriter from Wales.

He was hugely active in the 1980s and produced globally successful hit songs.

Interestingly, and unusually for an artist, Shakin’ Stevens has not just one but two Christmas songs that became major hits.

One of them is The Best Christmas of Them All.

With its rockabilly-tinged melody, it’s a great recommendation for a Christmas party song.