[2026] Christmas songs in Western music: from new hits to hall-of-fame classics

O Holy NightWhitney Houston

Whitney Houston O Holy Night

This song by Whitney Houston has also become a classic Christmas staple.

Since she has already passed away, I think even more people have special feelings toward this song.

Let her voice soothe you, and have a wonderful Christmas.

Do They Know It’s Christmas?Band Aid

Band Aid – Do They Know It’s Christmas? (Official Video) [4K]

The contrast between the joy of Christmas and the grim realities of the world resonates deeply.

Released in 1984, this song drew attention to the famine in Ethiopia and became a major topic as a charity single featuring many prominent artists.

It topped the UK charts and had a significant social impact, raising over £8 million in aid.

Listening to it during the Christmas season serves as a meaningful reminder for those of us in fortunate circumstances to turn our attention to global issues.

Last ChristmasTaylor Swift

Last Christmas by Taylor Swift – 2011

The one who covered Wham’s classic hit is none other than the mega-star Taylor Swift.

As this female artist is now a global superstar, her covering the song is expected to create a synergistic effect, bringing renewed popularity to the original as well.

WintertimeNorah Jones

Norah Jones – Wintertime (Audio)

A hidden gem among Christmas songs.

A gentle, intimate Christmas tune sung by Norah Jones.

Its wistful, bluesy melody leaves a strong impression.

If you use it as background music, you’ll want to choose the right moment.

It has an ending-like mood, so it might work well played softly during pick-ups, farewells, or closing time.

A slightly bittersweet, country-tinged Christmas number.

Last ChristmasTaylor Swift

Last Christmas

A Christmas party classic—you can hardly go wrong with this one! Taylor Swift’s version carries a gentle, rounded warmth that feels uniquely feminine, and together with the song’s content, it heightens the sense of poignancy.

I also feel she sings this track a bit differently from her usual style.

The parts delivered with her piercing, heart-tugging voice are the key highlights of this cover.

Little Saint NickThe Beach Boys

Little Saint Nick – The Beach Boys

Released in 1963, this number is a signature song by The Beach Boys that brightens up the holiday season.

Its delightful melody, which brilliantly fuses surf culture with Christmas, really warms the heart.

The innovative idea of putting Santa Claus in a hot rod reflects the youth culture of the time and is fascinating.

Whenever I hear this song, I can’t help but picture Christmas by the seaside.

Play it at a Christmas party and it’s sure to be a hit.

It’s a track packed with the very essence of the Beach Boys—why not enjoy it together with everyone?

This ChristmasChris Brown

Chris Brown – This Christmas (Official HD Video)

One of the artists who energized the new soul movement of the 1970s, Donny Hathaway.

His “This Christmas” is a classic and is known as a quintessential Christmas soul song.

This version is sung by Chris Brown, whose catchy vocals and high-level dance performance—evocative of Michael Jackson—leave a strong impression.

With a stronger R&B arrangement than the original, it’s also a great pick for parties.

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