RAG MusicXmas
Lovely Christmas

1990s Western Christmas songs: from blockbuster hits to hidden gems

Just seeing the way the cityscape changes every December and the sparkling decorations lining the shops somehow puts you in a buoyant mood, doesn’t it?

And what you can’t skip during this season, of course, is Christmas songs!

For those looking for Christmas music as BGM for a holiday party or for the car, this article introduces Western Christmas songs from the 1990s—a decade that produced many hit tracks.

Rather than covers of so-called standards, we’ve mainly gathered original Christmas songs, so it’s a must-see for anyone who wants to create a Christmas atmosphere that’s a little different from the usual!

Christmas songs from Western music in the ’90s: From smash hits to hidden gems (71–80)

Everybody Knows The ClausHanson

The Christmas song with a bold, powerful guitar sound, “Everybody Knows The Claus,” is a cool one.

This track was released in 1997 by Hanson, an American rock band formed by three brothers.

Their holiday album Snowed In, which includes this song, was released at the height of their explosive popularity.

As a result, it became the best-selling holiday album of 1997.

Its brisk rock vibe sets the stage for a fun Christmas.

Santa Claus Goes Straight To The GhettoNate Dogg & Snoop Dogg

Perfect for a Christmas colored by gangsta rap is “Santa Claus Goes Straight To The Ghetto.” It’s a track released in 1996 as a collaboration between Snoop Dogg and Nate Dogg, arranged from James Brown’s 1968 original.

The steady, pulsing bassline gives it a cool vibe.

Its mysterious, sexy atmosphere sets the stage for a Christmas that feels a little different.

It Won’t Be the Same This YearVince Gill

It Won’t Be The Same This Year (Album Version)
It Won't Be the Same This YearVince Gill

As the Christmas season approaches, the atmosphere in the city suddenly changes and comes alive, doesn’t it? Let me introduce a song that’s perfect for this time of year.

Featured on country music master Vince Gill’s 1993 album “Let There Be Peace on Earth,” this piece is marked by its poignant lyrics and simple melody.

It depicts the experience of welcoming Christmas while bearing the profound sorrow of losing a family member, and Gill’s clear vocals paired with gentle country arrangements resonate deeply.

Amid traditional scenes like Christmas trees and carols, the song reminds us of the importance of bonds with our loved ones.

It’s highly recommended for anyone who wants to cherish warm moments spent with family and friends.

Christmas At The ZooThe Flaming Lips

The Flaming Lips – Christmas At The Zoo [Official Music Video]
Christmas At The ZooThe Flaming Lips

The Flaming Lips’ “Christmas at the Zoo” is a psychedelic, quirky piece that truly captures the essence of alternative rock.

Its dreamy, wistful vocals and slightly off-kilter melodies evoke a sense of nostalgia, transporting you to a world apart from the hustle and bustle of a city Christmas.

The playful music video is also a must-see.

Another NightReal McCoy

Real McCoy – Another Night (Videoclip)
Another NightReal McCoy

It’s a classic from 1993, and even if you don’t know the artist’s name, I bet many of you know the song.

Its uptempo vibe makes it a perfect pick for Christmas.

The occasional male vocals add a nice touch, too.

In conclusion

Many major artists and groups who had big hits in the ’90s have recorded Christmas songs, but since this lineup focuses on original Christmas songs rather than standards, those who hadn’t heard the tracks we introduced this time were probably able to enjoy them with a fresh feeling.

Spending Christmas Eve with a playlist of original Christmas songs will surely be fun, too!