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

Last ChristmasWham!

Wham! – Last Christmas (Official Video)

When it comes to Western Christmas songs, many people first think of “Last Christmas.” This track was released in 1984 by Wham!, the pop duo that was hugely successful in the 1980s.

While it became a worldwide hit, its popularity in Japan was especially remarkable, topping the charts for as many as 30 weeks at the time.

Although it’s a heartbreak song, it’s so well-known that people often use it at parties without paying much attention to the lyrics.

expand_lessRaise the rankingexpand_morelower

Ryo

Report a problem

Skip My HouseCoco Jones

Coco Jones – Skip My House (Audio)

Coco Jones began her career as a singer on Disney Channel and now shines in the R&B scene.

At the 66th Annual Grammy Awards in 2024, she won Best R&B Performance for “ICU,” cementing her status as a powerhouse.

Her holiday track released in November 2025 offers a compelling twist on the traditional Christmas song.

Instead of asking Santa for presents, she sings that she’s already fulfilled and “you can skip my house,” a unique, upside-down idea.

Set to warm R&B production, its message of gratitude and self-affirmation resonates gently.

Rather than flashy festive fanfare, it’s a song that quietly fills the heart—perfect for anyone hoping to spend a calm Christmas night.

This Christmas I’m Coming HomeLeon Bridges, Norah Jones

Leon Bridges, Norah Jones – This Christmas I’m Coming Home (Official Audio)

Two singer-songwriters with roots in Texas have delivered a heartwarming holiday duet.

The collaboration by Leon Bridges and Norah Jones was released in November 2025.

Leon Bridges is an artist who has expanded his expression into contemporary R&B while maintaining a deep respect for vintage soul, and he won Best Traditional R&B Performance at the 61st Grammy Awards.

This work captivates with a jazzy, soulful texture, where rolling piano tones and their two voices blend exquisitely.

With embellishment kept to a minimum, it conveys the season’s warmth through vocals and groove.

It’s perfect for a quiet night with someone special or for a relaxed listen on the drive home for the holidays.

Snowing in ParisPentatonix featuring JoJo

Pentatonix featuring JoJo – Snowing in Paris (Yule Log Audio)

This holiday number was created by the Grammy-winning a cappella group Pentatonix, featuring R&B/pop singer JoJo.

It was released in October 2025 as a track on the album “Christmas in the City.” Pentatonix’s intricate choral work intertwines with JoJo’s rich, soulful vocals to create a ballad that conjures a romantic scene set in wintertime Paris.

Blending the clarity of a cappella with the warmth of R&B, the song made a notable impact on the holiday charts.

With its urban, sophisticated mood, it’s perfect as background music for a quiet evening with someone special or a relaxing solo Christmas night.

mother i’ll be latearon!

aron! – mother i’ll be late (lyric video)

Alon, a singer-songwriter currently in the spotlight, moves effortlessly between jazz and pop.

Originally from North Carolina, he began playing guitar in childhood thanks to music games, and later received formal training from an 80-year-old jazz guitar teacher he met in his hometown.

In June 2025, he released his debut EP, “cozy you (and other nice songs),” on the prestigious Verve Records, winning support for his warm vocals and sophisticated arrangements.

His holiday song quietly weaves together the ache of not being able to go home and a deep love for family.

Rather than flashy production, its intimate, combo-like sound—like music resonating in a room—gently stays close to the listener.

The track appears on the holiday EP “a cozy christmas,” adding seasonal color alongside a cover of a Frank Sinatra classic.

It’s a perfect work for quiet nights spent alone or moments spent thinking of someone dear.