The holiday season has a special way of stirring our hearts and putting smiles on our faces. And nothing sets the mood quite like a carefully curated playlist of Christmas songs. As the days grow shorter and the nights longer, the right soundtrack can transform every moment into a cherished memory. What kind of music will you listen to this year while you wrap gifts or hang out with friends and family this holiday season? If you're looking for the most chill experience ever, we've got just the selection to guide you.
This collection of songs is all about stopping and enjoying the moment, whatever you end up doing. Tunes that make you feel like a warm puddle melting into Christmas goo, or the ones that put you in the mood to reflect on everything going on in the world while also appreciating what you have. It's deep, y'all! Deeply relaxing!
We've got 25 tracks to go through here. So, let's take a walk down this lane of musical gems and appreciate the songs that keep us feeling chillax all throughout the season. You'll find some old favorites and new songs to listen to too, but every single one of our picks will make the season feel bright.
"White Christmas," Bing Crosby
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With its nostalgic lyrics and Crosby's smooth voice, this timeless ballad evokes the serene essence of a snowy Christmas day.
"Silent Night," Sinead O'Connor
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The peaceful melody and O'Connor's warm tones provide a tranquil backdrop perfect for a reflective Christmas evening, and this minimalist version of the classic is a fantastic cut.
"The Christmas Song," Nat King Cole
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Often subtitled "Chestnuts Roasting on an Open Fire," this song's lush orchestration and cozy lyrics are the audio equivalent of a warm blanket.
"Winter Wonderland," Dean Martin
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Martin's rendition of this classic is as smooth as fresh snow, with a playful rhythm that makes it a relaxing holiday favorite.
"Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas," Frank Sinatra
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Sinatra's version offers a comforting embrace with its tender delivery and heartfelt sentiment.
"Let It Snow," Harry Connick Jr.
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Despite the cold weather it describes, Connick Jr.'s' voice and the song's jazzy arrangement feel like a warm hearth.
"O Holy Night," Josh Groban
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Groban's powerful voice captures the spiritual majesty of Christmas, making this a moving and peaceful listen.
"All I Want for Christmas Is You," Michael Bublé
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Bublé's smooth crooning gives this modern classic a more laid-back, jazzy feel than Mariah Carey's original.
"Christmas Time Is Here," Vince Guaraldi Trio
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Known for its appearance in the timeless A Charlie Brown Christmas, this jazzy instrumental is the essence of relaxing holiday music.
"It's Beginning to Look a Lot Like Christmas," Perry Como
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With a gentle melody and Como's soft vocals, this song brings the cheerful spirit of the holidays to life.
"Silver Bells," Andy Williams
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Williams' version of this classic carol is filled with a hopeful spirit and a calming tempo that's perfect for a leisurely Christmas day.
"Frosty the Snowman," Gene Autry
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Autry's friendly voice and the light-hearted lyrics make this song a gentle and joyous Christmas tune.
"Sleigh Ride," The Ronettes
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The Ronettes' version adds a touch of 60s pop to this festive instrumental, creating a soothing yet cheerful ambiance.
"I'll Be Home for Christmas," Bing Crosby
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Crosby's dulcet tones and the song's wistful lyrics make it an emotionally comforting and soothing holiday classic.
"Blue Christmas," Elvis Presley
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Presley's tender vocal delivery adds a touch of blues to the holiday season, making it a soothing selection for those missing loved ones.
"Feliz Navidad," José Feliciano
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The simple lyrics and Feliciano's cheerful delivery make this a light-hearted and relaxing Christmas staple, especially if you're bilingual!
"Santa Claus Is Coming to Town," The Jackson 5
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The Jackson 5 brings a playful and relaxing twist to this holiday favorite.
"Holly Jolly Christmas," Burl Ives
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Ives' jolly voice and the song's upbeat tempo bring a smile to your face, which is great for unwinding during the holidays.
"Little Drummer Boy," The Harry Simeone Chorale
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The steady rhythm and harmonious vocals create a meditative atmosphere that's both uplifting and calming.
"Merry Christmas Darling," Carpenters
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Karen Carpenter's rich voice, along with the romantic lyrics, make this a dreamy and relaxing holiday tune.
"Do You Hear What I Hear?," Whitney Houston
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Houston's dynamic voice brings a sense of awe to this peaceful Christmas hymn.
"Peace on Earth/Little Drummer Boy," David Bowie and Bing Crosby
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This unique duet combines tranquility and melody, offering a moment of peace and reflection.
"Last Christmas," Wham!
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The smooth 80s synth and George Michael's heartfelt delivery give this holiday break-up song a soothing quality.
"Happy Xmas (War Is Over)", John Lennon and Yoko Ono
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The hopeful message and the chorus of children's voices make for a calming and optimistic holiday listen.
"Christmas Canon," Trans-Siberian Orchestra
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The classical instrumentation and choral arrangements offer a modern take on Pachelbel's Canon, and it's oh-so-smooth.
