[2026] A roundup of recommended Christmas songs for bands to cover

Devil’s Merry ChristmasSeikima II

Seikima-II Devilish Merry Christmas

A song by the metal band Seikima-II, whose striking looks and high-level musicianship give them a one-of-a-kind presence.

It opens with a piano and acoustic guitar arpeggio that feels far too ominous for something called a Christmas song, then shifts straight into an intense arrangement—immediately setting it apart from typical holiday tunes.

The melodic sense of metal’s classical stylings combined with catchy hooks may even evoke a sense of grandeur.

With its thick, full-band sound, it’s also a joy to play live, so why not try covering it for the Christmas season?

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Hoshino Takashi

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presentHagiwara Kenichi

Kenichi Hagiwara “Present” LIVE at Theatre Cocoon

A Christmas song by Kenichi Hagiwara, who was both an outlaw-style actor and a rock singer.

To be honest, it’s a pretty heartrending number, but if you cover it with sincerity, it might move people.

This classic, which calls to mind the roles he played on TV and in films, is included on his 1988 album “Shining With You.”

AnnaKai Band

Kai Band “Anna”

When it comes to Kai Band’s winter classics, this one is a must.

With Yoshihiro Kai’s moving vocals, it has long been cherished as a staple winter ballad.

The lyrics, which express a bittersweet longing for a distant lover, make it a song that truly touches the heart.

Since its release in 1979, it has continued to be loved by many, and a remake version was released in 2012.

It’s the perfect song to listen to on a cold winter night while thinking of someone special.

It also suits band covers, so performing it at a Christmas live show would surely fill the venue with a warm atmosphere.

Wicked Scheme ~ Merry Christmas, Mr. LawreROTTENGRAFFTY

[TV] Evil Schemes / Violence / Toxicology @ Kansai Rock Party - ROTTENGRAFFTY

If you’re into loud rock bands, this might be the song that comes to mind.

It’s a hidden fan favorite by ROTTENGRAFFTY that’s only performed a few times a year even at their live shows! It uses backing tracks, and the rap-style lyrics delivered by twin vocals make it pretty challenging.

That said, with elements like a melody that pays homage to a classic by Ryuichi Sakamoto and a gripping guitar solo, it’s packed with moments guaranteed to hype up the crowd.

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Hane Keisuke

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Presents for ChristmasSolomon Burke

Solomon Burke – Presents For Christmas (Atlantic Records 1967)

A Christmas song performed passionately by the late soul/R&B legend Solomon Burke, who sadly passed away in 2010.

True to his gospel roots, he lifts listeners with high-energy vocals that make you feel as if you’re in church.

The track is included on Soul Christmas, a various-artists compilation released by the renowned soul/R&B label Atlantic in 1968.