- “Fairytale of New York” by The Pogues: The rawness of Shane MacGowan’s ugly ramble works perfectly with the late Kirsty MacColl’s lovely voice. What makes this the greatest Christmas song is how this mix of punk attitude and traditional Celtic sound tells its story; a couple on Christmas Eve whose love has turned to resentment- but can be played and admired any time of the year.
- “I Wish It Could Be Christmas Everyday” by Wizzard: Roy Wood shows a childlike love for the season with touches of sax and French horn. The children’s chorus adds to the feeling. It’s guaranteed to make anyone smile.
- “Christmas (Baby, Please Come Home)” by Darlene Love: The apex of Phil Spector’s adorned holiday album, Darlene Love delivers a powerful performance with the classic Wall of Sound and great lyrics, especially for its time.
- “Holiday Mood” by Apples in Stereo: This Elephant 6 group creates a quiet gem here with a jangly Beatle-esque sound and chorus. The recording style makes it sound like it could have come straight from an AM station.
- “Christmas Must Be Tonight” by The Band: The band gave their trademark Americana sound to this retelling of Jesus’ birth. With wavering keyboards and gentle acoustic pickings, the boys perform a peaceful song with lovely performances.
- “Santa Claus is Comin’ to Town” by Bruce Springsteen and the E Street Band: Bruce’s cover of this classic is perhaps the best example why he is so beloved. This live recording captures the essence of his persona. The way he chats with the band and calls out to the audience shows how much he loves to perform.
- “The Christmas Song” by The Vince Guaraldi Trio: While Nat King Cole’s masterpiece cover will always be the most remembered, Guaraldi’s version provides the proper close to the Charlie Brown soundtrack. The quiet piano intro that goes into a relaxed trio session is the best song to play on a December evening.
- “All Alone On Christmas” by Darlene Love: In a spiritual sequel to Love’s aforementioned song, the E Street Band steps in and brings their own Wall of Sound. Written by Little Steven Van Zandt, this song contains one of the late Clarence Clemons’ greatest saxophone solos. It shows the bands strength, even without Springsteen.
- “Father Christmas” by The Kinks: Ray Davies’ cynical tale of a mall Santa getting mugged by kids is funny slam on the cliche yuletide sentiments. The hard rock sound with brief glockenspiel interludes is also memorable.
- “Merry Xmas Everybody” by Slade: Glam stars Slade also have a childlike sentiment for the Christmas season. The heavy guitars accompany lyrics of Santa sobering up for the big night and Grandma rocking out with the family. It also has a unique chord progression.
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Top 10 Christmas Songs
December 4, 2014
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