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

Silent NightSEKAI NO OWARI

SEKAI NO OWARI「Silent Night」

This is SEKAI NO OWARI’s cover of the beloved Christmas classic “Silent Night.” It was a fan club–exclusive track that was released on YouTube in 2014.

The romantic sound conjures up images of snow falling on Christmas night.

It’s perfect to perform as entertainment at a party.

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Araki Jakkan

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Thank God It’s ChristmasQueen

Queen – Thank God It’s Christmas (Official Lyric Video)

A warm, timeless classic that feels as if it’s been touched by Christmas magic.

Freddie’s lustrous vocals layer over a gently opening piano melody, creating a song that sinks deep into the heart—a masterpiece of a Christmas song born from QUEEN.

Released in November 1984, it was composed by Brian May and Roger Taylor, and perfected by the vocals of Freddie, the very soul of the band.

The lyrics, which sing of seeking a moment of peace from stressful days, are universally relatable.

When singing it at karaoke, be mindful of the structure that starts quietly and gradually swells, and pour your emotions into it.

Night of the 32nd-magnitude StarHakubi

Hakubi – Night of the 32nd-Magnitude Star [MV]

A Christmas song by Hakubi wrapped in a festive holiday atmosphere.

It’s an adult Christmas tune that expresses the loneliness and emptiness one can feel despite the bustle of Christmas night, conveyed through a tender, heartrending vocal.

Released in November 2022, the track is also included on Hakubi’s second album, “Eye.” The music video, directed by filmmaker Norie Enokizono, has also been generating buzz.

It’s a perfect song to perform at live shows during the Christmas season.

If you cover it with a band, it could be interesting to preserve the lyrical world while adding a rock flavor to the arrangement.

Burnin’ X’mas (UNDER:COVER 2)T.M.Revolution

T.M.Revolution Burnin’ X’mas (UNDER:COVER 2) TV LIVE

This song is one of T.M.Revolution’s signature tracks, but the version we’re introducing here is his self-cover.

It’s been reborn as a Christmas song featuring Takanori Nishikawa’s emotional vocals and a driving, heavy band sound.

The track is said to center on a “pathetic man tossed around by love,” giving it a Christmas vibe that’s a bit different from the norm.

The characters are a provocative woman and a man whose smoldering feelings erupt.

Crank up this passionate Christmas song—one that blows away the usual holiday mood of cozy nights with lovers or family, or lonely nights after a breakup—with its high-energy sound!

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hiyori

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Jingle Bell RockBobby Helms

Jingle Bell Rock / Bobby Helms 1957

Even if you don’t know the song title or the artist, you’ve probably heard it before, right? It’s a rock-style Christmas song with an oldies vibe! The tempo feels calm, yet it has a refreshing, happy feel that makes it so pleasant to listen to.

To capture this groove, it looks like the band members will need to practice together thoroughly.

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Hane Keisuke

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Santa Claus Is Coming to TownThe Jackson 5

Jackson 5 -Santa Claus Is Comin’ To Town

The Jackson 5 version of ‘Santa Claus Is Coming to Town,’ included on their 1970 Christmas album.

If the original feels a bit lacking and you want a beat with a strong off-beat groove, cover this one instead.

And if you can hit those high notes, definitely go for it!

Merry Christmas Mr. LawrenceSakamoto Ryuichi

Ryuichi Sakamoto – Merry Christmas, Mr. Lawrence

Composed as the theme for the film Merry Christmas, Mr.

Lawrence, this piece is surely one that almost everyone has heard before.

Its melody carries a hint of melancholy while remaining highly catchy and pleasing—so compelling that you want to keep listening.

Created by Ryuichi Sakamoto in 1983, it marked a significant turning point in his musical career.

The synthesizer-centered electronic timbres are striking, beautifully conveying both the realities of war and the complexities of human emotion.

Performed at a Christmas concert, it would envelop the entire venue in a warm atmosphere.