Winter is upon us, and what better way to get into the mood (if you aren’t in it already) than to listen to holidays songs? Here is a playlist to help you get into the festive spirit while preparing for finals (you can do it!).
1. “Last Christmas” — Wham!
Wham! was and is my mom’s favorite band so it was just natural that I grew up listening to it nonstop, especially when it got cold out. “Last Christmas” was my first exposure to the British pop duo, and the best (if I dare say … but do check out “Wake Me Up Before You Go-Go”). Ariana Grande also has a pop-ier version of the classic.
2. “All I Want for Christmas is You” — Mariah Carey
It’d be a crime NOT to listen to Mariah during the holidays. Other versions of this song are good, but solo Mariah Carey is the best.
3. “Let it Snow!” — Dean Martin
Dean Martin’s voice is deep and smooth, and this song highlights it. And it’s about snow! Hopefully we get a white Christmas this year *crosses fingers*.
4. “Santa Tell Me” — Ariana Grande
Ari shows off her vocal prowess here (once again).
5. “The Christmas Song” Nat King Cole
The ultimate Christmas classic in Nat King Cole’s voice. I’m on board. Are you?
6. “Merry Christmas, Happy Holidays” — ‘N Sync
A blast to the past! Justin Timberlake hasn’t changed a bit.
7. “White Christmas” — Frank Sinatra
Okay, let’s be real: Who doesn’t love Frank Sinatra? Although not known for his holiday songs, he is a legend, and “White Christmas” in his voice is just another one of his many songs that makes you feel warm and fuzzy inside.
8. “It’s Beginning to Look A Lot Like Christmas” — Michael Bublé
If you haven’t heard of Michael Bublé’s Christmas album, in which he covers all the holiday greats, where have you been? It’s great to listen to the classics performed by the OG, but sometimes, it’s nice to listen to different versions of the same song and Bublé delivers.
9. “Run Rudolph Run” — Chuck Berry
I guess Rudolph glowed up? Thanks, Chuck. No, really. Thank you.
10. “Santa Claus is Coming to Town” — Pentatonix
I wish Santa would come to town sooner.
11. “Earth Angel” — The Penguins
During the holiday season — when it would get down to the 30s and you could see your breath in the air — my dad would turn this on in the car. Although not a holiday song, it does make you feel cozy inside. Also, Back to the Future, anyone?
12. “Christmas is All Around” — Billy Mack
If any of you guys have seen Love, Actually, you’d know where this song comes from.
13. “Underneath the Tree” — Kelly Clarkson
This song makes you want to dance and curl up in a blanket at the same time.
14. “Mistletoe” — Justin Bieber
Yes. Justin Bieber. Because, why not? Yeah, I don’t completely dislike him.
15. “Jingle Bell Rock” — Bobby Helms
While this is a great holiday song, I can’t not think about Mean Girls.
16. “You’re a Mean One Mr. Grinch” — Jim Carrey
Who remembered (ahem, found out) Jim Carrey could sing? This song is mostly for the nostalgia and the laughs and, well, Jim Carrey.