[2026] Christmas Songs You’ll Want to Play on Guitar: A Collection of Classic Favorites Perfect for Solo Performances

By the time of the Christmas carolsInagaki Junichi

Junichi Inagaki - When the Christmas Carols Are Sung

This is the 27th single by singer Junichi Inagaki, a solo artist whose performances singing while playing drums are particularly striking.

The song was used as the theme for the TV drama “Homework” and is known as one of Inagaki’s signature tracks—a standard number that colors the winter season of J-pop.

The acoustic guitar arrangement contains many difficult chords and progresses with fast phrases that make extensive use of arpeggios, so it takes a fair amount of practice to master.

It’s an arrangement that provides substantial practice for anyone doing a solo vocal-and-guitar performance, so, true to the title, try challenging yourself to be able to play it by the time Christmas carols are in the air.

expand_lessRaise the rankingexpand_morelower

Hoshino Takashi

Report a problem

Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer

Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer Christmas song Santa Claus children’s song nursery rhyme Japanese song Minna no Uta ♬ Rudolph with the bright red nose~ Melody Line♪

It’s a Christmas song that everyone knows.

It was originally written and composed by the American songwriter Johnny Marks, and it became widely popular in Japan from the mid-1950s.

Since it’s a song that people from small children to the elderly can sing, it’s great to perform at any event.

The chords that appear are super simple, too.

It’s a classic Christmas tune that’s highly recommended for beginner guitarists.

You could even have the audience sing along.

expand_lessRaise the rankingexpand_morelower

Araki Jakkan

Report a problem

X-M@$Corey Taylor

Corey Taylor – X-M@$

A Christmas song by Corey Taylor, vocalist of the American loud band Slipknot.

According to him, it’s a song he wrote as a satire aimed at people making a big fuss over Christmas.

It might also be fun to play this bright, rocking song while adding your own arrangement.

ChristmasJUDY AND MARY

Christmas / JUDY AND MARY (cover) [with lyrics]

Judy and Mary use a lot of rock chord progressions, and many of their songs work well even when played on acoustic guitar.

If you focus on dynamic, well-defined strumming, you can bring out a flavor that’s distinct from ballads.

They’re great for women to sing, but they also remain compelling when sung in a lower register by men.

Tie a ribbon around my affectionLittle Glee Monster

[Middle-aged guy sings seriously] Tie a Ribbon on the Love / Little Glee Monster — Coca-Cola “Ribbon Bottle” CM — Acoustic Cover [with Lyrics / Solo Performance / Chords]

It’s a heartwarming Christmas song that sings of gently giving warm feelings of love to someone, like tying a ribbon around them.

Released on December 11, 2019, it drew attention as the song used in Coca-Cola’s Winter Campaign 2019 commercial.

It’s also included on Little Glee Monster’s EP “I Feel The Light,” which commemorates the 5th anniversary of their debut.

Capturing the pure excitement of children waiting for Santa Claus and heartfelt gratitude toward loved ones, this song is perfect for a Christmas party performance.

Pick up a guitar and sing it together with someone special—it’s sure to become a wonderful memory.

Nothing But LoveMr. BIG

Mr. Big – Nothing But Love

Mr.

Big is a band formed by top-tier musicians who continue to thrive today, including guitarist Paul Gilbert and bassist Billy Sheehan.

Among their songs, “Nothing But Love” stands out as especially Christmas-themed.

It’s unusual for Mr.

Big in that it starts with strings, giving it the feel of a Christmas love song.

Aside from the solo, Paul Gilbert’s guitar parts aren’t that difficult, so beginners should definitely give it a try.

expand_lessRaise the rankingexpand_morelower

Saitō Ayumu

Report a problem

Winter FallsStray Kids

Stray Kids – Winter Falls | Guitar Cover

This song features a melody that gently wraps winter’s chill and the ache of the heart, leaving a lasting impression.

The guitar-centered, simple arrangement highlights the delicate emotional expression.

Released in November 2021, it’s included on Stray Kids’ first holiday single, “Christmas EveL.” The lyrics quietly trace the resolve to move forward while reflecting on a past relationship, offering comfort to those spending Christmas night alone.

Why not try a heartfelt guitar-and-vocal performance, channeling your feelings for someone special along with the guitar’s tender tones? It’s a perfect track for creating a warm, heartwarming atmosphere.