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

White LoversKuwata Keisuke

Keisuke Kuwata – Shiroi Koibitotachi (Full ver.)

This is the seventh single by singer-songwriter Keisuke Kuwata, who serves as the frontman and bandmaster of Southern All Stars.

The song was featured in commercials for Coca-Cola and UNIQLO, and it’s the best-selling Christmas song among Kuwata’s solo singles.

Its ethereal intro, featuring organ and piano, creates a mystical atmosphere that evokes wintry Christmas scenes.

As an ensemble, each part uses few notes and the tempo is relaxed, making it relatively easy to perform; however, since the overall quality depends greatly on the vocals, we recommend thorough practice.

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Hoshino Takashi

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SharonROSSO

Sharon

The lead track from ROSSO’s first album, a rock band formed around Yusuke Chiba.

The fierce guitar sound and high-tempo eight-beat stir up a poignant feeling.

The lyrics brilliantly contrast the lively city decked out for Santa Claus with the chill of winter and the loneliness of losing someone.

If you can master a Yusuke Chiba–style shout, it’ll make for a killer cover.

homeRyukku to soine gohan

Backpack and Bedtime Rice / home [Music Video]

Nicknamed “Ryukuso,” their charm lies in songs that evoke gentle youth—everyday moments and memories of love.

“home” is packed with Christmas essence, not only in its lyrics featuring holiday items but also in its sleigh bells and buoyant melody.

Created around the theme of “welcome home,” it’s a pop track that warms you up in the cold winter.

As you play it, pay attention to the cozy vocals and the rich, warm timbre—including a bass line that in parts uses an electric contrabass.

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hiyori

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Men Who Don’t Know Christmasgagaga supi

Kurisumasu o shiranai otokotachi – GAGAGAS P

Released in 2009, a track from Gagaga SP’s seventh album.

It’s a song for men who want to enjoy Christmas but just can’t quite manage to—those with complicated feelings.

It starts off dripping with self-deprecation, but in the end it’s a valiant tune that tries to enjoy Christmas in a positive light.

It won’t overlap with other bands’ setlists, and covering a song by Gagaga SP—a true live band—is sure to get the crowd going.

Solitude X’masFear, and Loathing in Las Vegas

Solitude X’mas

A Christmas track by Fear, and Loathing in Las Vegas, a loud rock band known for their unique style that fuses heavy sounds with electronic elements.

It’s included on their first full-length album, Dance & Scream, released in November 2010, and features English lyrics that depict snowy landscapes, city illuminations, and the bittersweet feeling of waiting for a loved one to return.

The interplay between intense screams and clean vocals, and the explosive jump from quiet sections into pounding drums, is truly breathtaking.

It’s a perfect choice for those who want to hype up a venue with a loud arrangement that stands apart from typical Christmas songs, or for fans of electrocore-style sounds.

Tokyo ExtrasI Don’t Like Mondays.

Tokyo Extra (Audio)

This work overlays the quiet heartache of a protagonist harboring unspoken feelings in a corner of the city with a winter nightscape.

The lyrics, spun from a lonely perspective—“in someone else’s story, I’m nothing more than an extra”—capture the sadness that exists behind the glitter of the Christmas season with striking realism.

The characteristically groovy sound of I Don’t Like Mondays.

is joined by gospel-style chorus vocals from Azumi Takahashi, the first Japanese winner of the Apollo Theater’s Annual Championship, creating an urgency that feels like a prayer.

Released digitally in November 2020 and later included on the album Black Humor, it’s the kind of song that, when performed at a winter live show, is sure to draw the audience into a hushed, attentive atmosphere.

corn potageSaucy Dog

Corn Potage

A track from Saucy Dog’s eighth mini-album, “New Gate,” depicting winter warmth and personal growth.

Through everyday moments—messages to friends, choosing gifts for loved ones, and toasting with corn potage—the song delicately portrays the feelings of a protagonist approaching the age of becoming a father.

Unlike their earlier track “Humming,” it sketches a father figure from a different angle, carefully chronicling the smiles they want to protect and the realization of cherished days.

Released in December 2024, this piece is part of a collection that embraces diverse musical styles, including garage rock, two-beat rhythms, and shoegaze-inspired sounds.

Blending nostalgic winter scenes with the band’s sound, the performance is perfect for bands looking to deliver a story of warmth and growth at Christmas concerts.