Christmas is upon us, and along with the twinkling lights and festive traditions, the music of the season takes center stage. According to Billboard, Christmas songs have dominated holiday playlists yet again, with the release of their list of the 25 most popular Christmas songs of the 21st century. Leading the charge is Ariana Grande's "Santa Tell Me" from 2014, closely followed by Kelly Clarkson's heartwarming "Underneath the Tree" released back in 2010.
These two songs, both by artists who are also judges on The Voice, have not only captured the hearts of fans but also made significant chart impacts this year. For the first time, songs released this century have broken through as top contenders on the Billboard Hot 100 during the Christmas week, with "Santa Tell Me" peaking at ninth and "Underneath the Tree" at tenth.
"It’s Beginning to Look a Lot Like Christmas" by Michael Bublé is another festive favorite, appearing on the list multiple times. Bublé's wonderful crooning can be heard on the classics, and he appears five times on Billboard's rankings, demonstrating his lasting influence on contemporary holiday music.
The rest of the list is filled with other familiar names taking part, such as the Jonas Brothers, Justin Bieber, Ed Sheeran, and Sia, whose melodious contributions keep the holiday spirit alive. Notably, "Like It’s Christmas" emerged from the Jonas Brothers in 2019, adding fresh content to the seasonal repertoire. Likewise, Ed Sheeran and Elton John's "Merry Christmas" (2021) and Justin Bieber's "Mistletoe" (2011) continue to resonate with audiences.
Sia's "Snowman" made quite the impression since its release back in 2017 and perfectly encapsulates the joys of winter. The collaboration between Kelly Clarkson and Ariana Grande with "Santa, Can You Hear Me?" from 2021 has proven again how beautifully their voices harmonize, especially during this festive time of year.
While new songs make their mark, beloved classics have not lost their charm and continue to dominate holiday playlists. Traditional hits like Frank Sinatra’s "Let It Snow! Let It Snow! Let It Snow!" (1950) and Bobby Helms’s "Jingle Bell Rock" (1957) have established their importance through the decades, remaining staples of holiday music.
Christmas songs create connections across generations, sharing simple messages of joy, love, and reflection. While classic favorites evoke nostalgia, newer releases reflect contemporary themes and styles. The music at this time of year not only celebrates the holiday spirit but also offers reflection on the year passed.
From heartwarming ballads to upbeat tracks, the variety of Christmas songs ensures everyone can find something to enjoy. The diverse genres, ranging from pop to K-pop influences the new Christmas melodies, ensuring the festive theme stays vibrant.
Finally, the economic impact of Christmas music cannot be overlooked; it attracts millions to concerts, boosts album sales, and drives streaming services mad with consumption year on year. It doesn't just entertain; it embodies the spirit of Christmas, making this time of year special for many.
The enchantment of music during the holiday season captures the essence of Christmas, creating cherished memories and uniting diverse cultures around the world. So as the countdown to Christmas begins, it’s time to queue up those holiday playlists and indulge the senses with the sweetest melodies of the season!
