Dec. 6, 2025
By Mariah Allen
Webmaster
This piece is part of a six-part in-depth reporting project about the holiday season.
Nothing sets the winter mood quite like the perfect song, so here are seven timeless tracks to make your season merry and bright:
“It’s Beginning to Look a Lot Like Christmas” by Michael Bublé (Album: “Christmas,” 2011)
This effortlessly charming song embodies pure seasonal comfort. Bublé’s melodic and soothing voice captures the cozy vibe of wintertime, making it a must-play every holiday season.
“All I Want for Christmas is You” by Mariah Carey
(Album: “Merry Christmas,” 1994)
Written and sung by the legend who has earned the title “Queen of Christmas,” Carey delivers soulful vocals that make this holiday anthem impossible not to sing along to. A record-breaking hit, “All I Want for Christmas Is You” became the first Christmas song to surpass 2 billion Spotify streams, according to Time Out magazine.
“Underneath the Tree” by Kelly Clarkson
(Album: “Wrapped In Red,” 2013).
Channeling the excitement of finding love during the holidays, “Underneath the Tree” is an upbeat pop present. Its holiday flair, paired with Clarkson’s vibrant energy, brings Christmas cheer in an instant.
“Happy Xmas (War Is Over)” by John Lennon and Yoko Ono
(Released as a single in 1971)
This track combines messages of love and peace with the spirit of Christmas. It serves as both a song and a protest against the Vietnam War, reminding listeners that the holidays are about more than just gifts.
“Jingle Bells” by Frank Sinatra (Album: “A Jolly Christmas from Frank Sinatra,” 1957)
A jazzy rendition of Johnny Pell’s 1857 tune, this traditional track is enhanced by Sinatra’s smooth voice and sophistication.
“My Only Wish (This Year)” by Britney Spears
(Album: “Platinum Christmas,” 2000)
This Y2K pop track showcases Spears’ bubbly innocence and the bliss of young love at Christmastime. With its catchy lyrics and sweet energy, “My Only Wish (This Year)” is a feel-good favorite.
“It’s the Most Wonderful Time of the Year” by Andy Williams
(“The Andy Williams Christmas Album,” 1963)
This cool classic is not to be missed. It is the kind of song that fills every room with nostalgia and only gets better with age.
ALBUM COVERS COMPILED BY MARIAH ALLEN
