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

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!

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Kubota Mami

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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!

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Kubota Mami

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DJ Play a Christmas SongCher

Cher – DJ Play a Christmas Song (Official Lyric Video)

This is the lead track from Christmas, the first Christmas album Cher—often hailed as the Goddess of Pop—released in 2023.

The song deftly blends her signature dance-pop sound with a festive holiday spirit.

Its lyrics, which express a wish to escape the cold outside for a warm place and ask the DJ to play Christmas songs, capture a sense of liberation and togetherness on the club dance floor.

Released in October 2023, the track extended her chart record at age 77, making her the only solo artist with number-one hits in every decade from the 1960s to the 2020s.

With electronic beats that break from traditional Christmas song conventions and her powerful vocals resonating throughout, it’s perfect for livening up holiday parties and events.

Something Just Like ThisThe Chainsmokers & Coldplay

The Chainsmokers & Coldplay – Something Just Like This (Official Lyric Video)

An anthem featuring Coldplay.

It’s not directly related to Christmas, but its holy-night atmosphere, lyrics, and sound make it a perfect fit.

It’s one of their most popular songs, second only to “Closer,” and it was such a hit that people listen to it year-round.

Its not-too-hyped mood makes it ideal as background music.

A laid-back style of EDM that has become a modern standard.

Last ChristmasCarly Rae Jepsen

Carly Rae Jepsen – Last Christmas (Audio)

It’s a cover of Wham!’s classic.

With a female vocal, it sounds different.

Literally, the title means “Last Christmas” in Japanese… It’s actually a heartbreak song.

Be careful playing it in front of someone who understands English and whom you like! That said, it’s already a staple at Christmas parties and such, so it’s hardly ever a miss.

Carly Rae Jepsen’s version also has a rounded, gentle quality unique to a female voice, and together with the song’s content, it feels even more bittersweet.