A SOUNDTRACK FOR THE SEASON: HOLIDAY SONGS THAT CAPTURE EVERY MOOD

Simoné de Witt

@simone_de_witt

 

Holiday music is often thought of with a sigh, or an exasperated eye roll. But these festive tracks are one of the season’s greatest storytellers, with a blend of nostalgia, culture, and fresh artistic takes that keep the holidays feeling both timeless and new. From reimagined classics to regional celebrations and cinematic gems, these songs capture the mood, magic, and meaning of the season in wildly different ways. Here’s a closer look at a handful of standout tracks that set the festive tone in their own unique voices:

 

1. “The Huron Carol” – Spiritus Chamber Choir

 

A hauntingly beautiful interpretation of Canada’s oldest Christmas carol, this version leans into choral harmonies that make me think of quiet winter night. The Spiritus Chamber Choir’s restrained yet resonant delivery creates a mood that is both spiritual and slightly somber, which is perfect for listeners who appreciate classical arrangements with emotional depth.

 

2. “Christmas in Cape Town” – New Apostolic Young People’s Choir

 

Bright, rhythmic, and celebratory, this song paints a vivid picture of the holidays in South Africa. With a lively beat and lively vocals, it is a refreshing departure from traditional Western holiday holiday music. The track captures the vibrant spirit of Cape Town, and subsequently the sunshine of Christmas in the summertime.

 

3. “Santa Baby” – Laufey

 

Laufey brings her signature jazzy, silky tone to this playful holiday classic. Her interpretation keeps the charm of Eartha Kitt’s original but adds a modern warmth: a mix of coyness and rich musicality. It’s festive, flirty, and smooth, and offers a fresh update for contemporary holiday playlists.

 

4. “You’re a Mean One, Mr. Grinch” – Sabrina Carpenter & Lindsey Stirling

 

This duo reimagines the Dr. Seuss favorite with stylish flair. Carpenter infuses the lyrics with jazzy energy and her signature cheeky personality, while Stirling’s talented violin skills wrap the track in a sparkling, whimsical bow. The result is a fun, modern take on a beloved villain’s anthem.

 

5. “When Christmas Comes to Town” – Matthew Hall & Meagan Moore

 

A tender and pure duet from The Polar Express, this song captures the wonder and innocence of childhood Christmas dreams. The gentle vocals and soft orchestration create a nostalgic atmosphere, even if you haven’t watched the movie yet.

 

6. “Hard Candy Christmas” – Dolly Parton

 

Parton delivers a bittersweet yet ultimately hopeful holiday ballad that feels tailor-made for moments of quiet reflection. Her trademark cheerfulness and warmth shines through, even as the lyrics explore the uncertainties and “what-ifs” that float around during the holiday season.

 

7. “Favourite Time of Year” – American Authors

 

Bursting with upbeat energy and unmistakable holiday cheer, this track is a celebration of everything Christmas lovers adore. American Authors bring their signature anthemic sound to the season, and creates a song that feels like a festive jumpstart.

 

8. “Santa Claus Was My Uber Driver” – Lee Brice

 

Brice gives the Christmas canon a fun, modern, country-flavored twist with this playful story-song. The track leans into humor and down-home charm, and imagines a delightfully unexpected holiday encounter. It’s lighthearted, catchy, and perfect for listeners who enjoy their Christmas spirit with a fun twist.

 

9. “Old Fashioned Holiday” – Andrea Von Kampen

 

This track is soft, serene, and steeped in nostalgia, and focuses on the warmth of togetherness during the holiday season. Her delicate vocals and gentle acoustic arrangements create a peaceful atmosphere that feels like sitting beside a crackling fire with the people who matter most.

 

10. “Santa Tell Me” – Jordyn Shellhart

 

Shellhart’s rendition brings a tender touch to this modern Christmas staple. Her voice, clear, warm, and quietly captivating, turns the usually upbeat hit into something more intimate. The result is a calm, lovely reinterpretation that feels perfect for cozy December nights.

 

11. “Carol of the Bells” – aeseaes

 

This rendition strips back the intensity of the classic and replaces it with a haunting, candlelit beauty. The harmonies are soft and atmospheric, and creates a sense of stillness and mystery. It is the kind of version that feels like wandering through a quiet forest under starlight.

 

12. “Mary & Joseph” – Chris Renzema

 

Renzema offers a grounded, humanising perspective on the nativity story by focusing on Mary and Joseph themselves. The song captures their vulnerability, courage, and ordinary humanity, which makes the ancient tale feel relatable and emotionally rich. It is a refreshing and thoughtful addition to Christmas music centered on faith.

 

13. “buy me presents” – Sabrina Carpenter

 

Carpenter leans fully into her signature cheeky pop charm with this playful holiday track. It’s peppy, flirtatious, and effortlessly catchy, and a classic Sabrina-style anthem wrapped in glittering Christmas energy.

 

14. “Funky Glitter Christmas” – NMIXX

 

NMIXX brings high-energy sparkle to the season with a vibrant k-pop track bursting with personality. This track is packed with bold vocals, glittery production, and a playful beat. It feels like stepping into a neon-bright holiday party. It’s fun, flashy, and full of that unmistakable K-pop flair, a perfect pick for anyone who wants their Christmas music loud, lively, and joyfully over-the-top.

 

15. “Santa, Can’t You Hear Me” – Kelly Clarkson & Ariana Grande

 

These two powerhouse vocalists team up for a modern holiday hit that feels destined for long-term classic status. Clarkson and Grande layer dynamic harmonies and electrifying belts over a festive pop arrangement, and create a song that sparkles with vocal firepower and seasonal flare.

 

16. “Love Is Christmas” – Sara Bareilles

 

Bareilles delivers a gentle, heartfelt performance on what truly makes the season meaningful. With warm piano and intimate vocals, the song reflects on home, connection, and the quiet kind of love that anchors the holidays. It’s peaceful, sincere, and soft-spoken.

 

17. “Please Come Home for Christmas” – Grace Potter & The Nocturnals

 

Potter infuses this bluesy Christmas staple with soulful grit and mesmerising vocals. The arrangement leans into a catchy, slightly somber groove, and gives the song emotional weight without losing its toe-tapping appeal. It’s a powerful, expressive take on longing during the holidays.

 

18. “Believe” – Josh Groban

 

Another signature ballad from The Polar Express that captures the nostalgia and magic of childhood wonder. Groban’s rich, soaring voice elevates the song into a timeless Christmas favorite: calm, cinematic, and fills the listener with quiet hope.

 

19. “The Christians and the Pagans” – Dar Williams

 

Williams blends storytelling and gentle folk charm in this thoughtful holiday song about a family gathering that bridges differences in belief. With warm vocals and clever, empathetic lyrics, the track highlights themes of acceptance, understanding, and the beauty of finding common ground. It’s a heartfelt reminder that the season’s true spirit often lies in simply coming together.

 

20. “Like It’s Christmas” – Jonas Brothers

 

Bright, cheesy in the best way, and irresistibly upbeat, this track delivers pure holiday fun. The Jonas Brothers lean into pop-holiday joy with this track. It’s simple, catchy, and undeniably festive.

 

 

From timeless carols to modern pop twists, holiday music continues to evolve while keeping its nostalgic heart. Each of these songs brings something unique to the season, whether it’s joy, comfort, reflection, or just a bit of festive fun. No matter your taste, there’s a holiday song out there ready to soundtrack your season.

 

 

 

Edited by Mhlengi Khumalo