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

O Holy NightDiana Ross

O Holy Night

It’s an impressively grand Christmas song that feels quintessentially ’90s.

The sound is overwhelming in the best way.

With a cinematic mood that goes beyond the framework of pop, it’s almost like watching a film.

The live orchestral performance underpins the accompaniment and highlights Diana Ross’s vocals.

This sacred ballad, perfect for a holy night, also helps create an elegant atmosphere.

Christmas TimeBryan Adams

Bryan Adams – Christmas Time (Lyrics)

Bryan Adams is a singer-songwriter who has also made a name for himself as a photographer.

He’s known for his distinctly husky voice, and his music is primarily rooted in pop rock.

“Christmas Time” is one of his holiday numbers.

Although he boasts a four-octave vocal range, this song also spans a fairly wide range, from mid2G to hihiA.

That said, the vocal line itself is very simple, with frequent repetitions.

Plus, since the key can be lowered, anyone with a decent range should be able to sing it well.

expand_lessRaise the rankingexpand_morelower

Ryo

Report a problem

Merry Christmas DarlingCarpenters

Merry Christmas Darling (Single Version)

It’s a song that was released as a single in 1970.

The lyrics were written in 1946 by Frank Pooler when he was 20, and he said they were about someone he had feelings for at the time.

The song itself is a Christmas ballad with a gentle melody line, making it something you can sing in a calm manner rather than with intensity.

Since it gradually builds toward the chorus, the structure makes you naturally think, “This is the chorus.” It’s better sung with a composed, steady tone rather than by belting.

You could accent the beginning of the melody, but don’t overdo it—using a deeper, softer voice will suit the mood.

Try singing with the sensation of resonating inside your mouth!

expand_lessRaise the rankingexpand_morelower

Kubota Mami

Report a problem

Christmas EveIdina Menzel

Christmas Eve

This song is included on a Christmas holiday album released in 2014.

In Japan, the same album was also released under the title “Snow Wishes,” and the song appears there as well.

Since it shares the same melody as Tatsuro Yamashita’s “Christmas Eve,” it’s very easy to listen to.

If you want a stylish English version, Idina Menzel’s rendition might be a good choice.

That said, the song builds steadily toward the latter half, so there are several spots where you’ll need to hit higher notes.

The ending phrases have very cool melodic lines, so men can lower the key and still deliver it well.

Overall, rather than enunciating crisply throughout, it’s better to sing with awareness of accents at the beginning and in certain parts.

expand_lessRaise the rankingexpand_morelower

Kubota Mami

Report a problem

Holly Jolly ChristmasMichael Bublé

Michael Bublé – Holly Jolly Christmas [Official HD]

Originally, it’s a classic Christmas song from the 1960s, first performed by Burl Ives.

Michael Bublé’s version was released in 2011.

It has jazzy elements, making it very stylish and easy to groove to.

At just two minutes long, it’s not hard to learn and feels familiar, so I highly recommend it to anyone who wants to pick up a Christmas tune! Overall, it’s a song that sounds really cool when sung with a relaxed feel and a light touch.

The jazz swing is key—don’t overthink it, let your body catch the groove! The rhythm will naturally fall into place.

I feel like it’s perfect for singing while swaying side to side with a drink in hand.

Try singing it as if you’re humming during a little break!

expand_lessRaise the rankingexpand_morelower

Kubota Mami

Report a problem

The First NoelPentatonix

Pentatonix – The First Noel (Official Video)

Many of you may already know the original song, which comes from the traditional English Christmas carol “The First Nowell / The First Noel.” Pentatonix focuses on a cappella harmonies, making both the lead melody and the harmony parts easy to hear, and their singing seems to flow straight into the heart.

Some of you might be practicing a cappella for the Christmas season, right? Since a cappella relies on singing in perfect sync, I think it’s best to memorize the lyrics completely.

Of course, singing it solo at karaoke also creates a great atmosphere! Rather than singing it in a flowing manner, if you deliver each phrase carefully and with feeling, it becomes a very compelling piece—so sing it with confidence!

expand_lessRaise the rankingexpand_morelower

Kubota Mami

Report a problem

Wonderful ChristmastimePaul McCartney

Paul McCartney – Wonderful Christmas Time

John Lennon’s “Happy Xmas (War Is Over)” carries a strong message, whereas this Christmas song has a light, fun vibe.

It’s been played a lot in recent years during the holiday season, so you’ve probably heard it before.