In the 21st century, Christmas is all about experiencing and immersing yourself in the feel-good, cheerful attitude we call Christmas spirit, commonly associated with nostalgia and tradition. 

During what other holiday is it the norm to play the same songs your family has been playing for the past 50 years over and over again? 

In my opinion, the easiest way to get into the festive mood is by blasting your favorite classic holiday songs while decorating your space for the upcoming season. Here is a playlist full of my favorite Christmas songs that are bound to give you that feel-good nostalgia we all long for this holiday season. 

“Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas” Performed by Judy Garland 

This classic Christmas song was originally written by Hugh Martin and Ralph Blaine for Judy Garland to sing in her 1944 movie “Meet Me in St. Louis.” Since then, the song has boomed in popularity and it maintained its popularity throughout the 21st century, with several different renditions performed by notable artists like Sam Smith, Michael Bublé, and Frank Sinatra. 

“Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree” Performed by Brenda Lee 

This song was originally written by Johnny Marks who knew he wanted Brenda Lee’s voice to be featured on the song, despite her being only 13 years old and not yet a notable musician at the time of the recording. Now, you are bound to hear Brenda Lee’s voice over the department store speakers while completing your Christmas shopping. 

“Do You Hear What I Hear” Performed by Bing Crosby 

Originally debuted in 1962 during the peak of the Cuban Missile Crisis, the original writer Noël Regney, took inspiration from the rising political tensions, as he was a World War II veteran and knew the pain of war. Contrary to popular belief, the song is not intended to have religious themes, rather it is a plea for peace and is still relevant to the kind of environment we all desire during the holiday season. 

“Santa Baby” Performed by Eartha Kitt 

“Santa Baby” was revolutionary at the time of its recording due to its unique take on the meaning of Christmas. Most songs at the time reflected a more nostalgic and reflective feeling towards the season. However, Eartha Kitt shocked the nation with her reflection of how good she had been throughout the year and how much she deserved for it. This iconic and non-traditional song makes it the perfect tune to listen to when writing your Christmas list. 

“Winter Wonderland” Performed by Bing Crosby  

“Winter Wonderland” has a long history with it being originally written by a tuberculosis patient named Richard Smith, who wrote the song with the intention of it being a jingle for an advertisement. Composer Felix Bernard heard Smith’s poem and decided to compose a song based on the poem. Even though it was never intended to be a Christmas carol, its feel-good themes of winter and love inspired several renditions made by notable artists like Michael Bublé and Diana Krall. 

“Santa Claus is Comin’ to Town” Performed by Bruce Springsteen

This classic Christmas song is originally dated back to 1934 and was an instant hit. This song does so well because it is able to appeal to all audiences. The story of Santa is one we all know and love, and this song is able to take the old tale of Santa Claus and turn it into a fun, catchy, and seasonal tune. 

“Let it snow! Let it Snow! Let it Snow!” Performed by Frank Sinatra 

This song was written during a California heatwave, where the lyricist, Sammy Cahn, wrote the song based on a yearning for cooler weather. Even though this famous Christmas carol makes no mention of the holiday, since its first recording in 1945 it has boomed in popularity and has been warranted as a staple for the Christmas season. 

“O’ Holy Night” Performed by Mariah Carey 

Originally written in French, and based on a poem written by French poet Placide Cappeau in 1843, “O’ Holy Night” has maintained its popularity for centuries and is considered a classic for the holiday season. This carol outlines the sacredness of the birth of Jesus, making this the perfect religious carol. 

“Silver Bells” Performed by Dean Martin 

This song first debuted in the 1951 motion picture, “Lemon Drop Kid,” and was first recorded by Bing Crosby and Carol Richards in 1950. “Silver Bells” demonstrates the excitement and environment surrounding Christmas time perfectly.

“It’s Beginning to Look a Lot Like Christmas” Performed by Michael Bublé

This song dates back to 1951 and was originally recorded by Meredith Wilson. The classic sound this song brings mixed in with the relatable excitement that the holiday season brings is what makes this song so successful. This classic carol is perfect for the beginning of December and to set the mood for the remainder of the Christmas season.