Christmas Songs: Cheery or Dreary?

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Christmas songs bring joy and excitement for the most wonderful time of the year.

It’s officially the holly, jolly season where Christmas music is blaring at full volume in cars, homes and stores. You’ve definitely heard some wonderful songs that get you in the holiday spirit, but you’d be lying to yourself if you said that all Christmas songs are amazing.

Best:

5. “Drummer Boy” by Justin Bieber

Bieber puts a new, refreshing twist on an old favorite. The incorporation of rap into this song makes it a new head-banger that anyone can jam out to. On top of that, Bieber sends a message of giving to those in need, cementing “Drummer Boy” as one of the best Christmas songs.

4. “Silent Night” by Pentatonix

“Silent Night” is one of the most peaceful Christmas songs out there. With a slow tempo and melodic tune, the song is sure to relax even the most busy Christmas shopper. In this rendition, the beautiful harmonies presented by the acapella group Pentatonix help the song land a spot on the top.

3. “It’s Beginning to Look a Lot Like Christmas” by Michael Bublé

This song is nostalgic to all generations. It has been covered many times; however, the vocals of Bublé are perfect for this classic, showcasing it to a new generation of Christmas lovers. The song is always fun to sing along to and will never grow old.

2. “The Christmas Song” by Nat King Cole

“The Christmas Song” sums up what Christmas is all about in a three minute song. The song covers the community, excitement and joy a person experiences every year, from one to ninety-two. Nat King Cole’s performance makes anyone want to snuggle up by a fire with friends and family. The nostalgia someone feels listening to “The Christmas Song” is unmatched.

1. “All I Want for Christmas Is You” by Mariah Carey

While some may find this Christmas song to be overplayed or washed up, you cannot deny that Carey delivered an instant hit that will live on for generations. The catchy tune and energetic beat can get anyone out of his or her chair to sing and dance, however much of a grinch he or she is. “All I Want for Christmas Is You” isn’t just a song, it’s a Christmas anthem, making it the best Christmas song.

Worst:

5. “The Chipmunk Song” by Alvin and the Chipmunks

“The Chipmunk Song” is hard on the ears. While not an awful song, after one listen, the high-pitched harmonies will never escape your head. This song is a great attempt at what chipmunks would sound like if they sing; however, it is more annoying than jolly.

4. “Feliz Navidad” by José Feliciano

“Feliz Navidad” is the most repetitive Christmas song ever created. With only two actual verses, the three minute song seems to never truly end. After hearing the chorus once, you’re ready to skip to the next song.

3. “Do They Know It’s Christmas?” By Band Aid

While this song may seem like an inspiring song raising awareness, after a closer listen, it seems as if Band Aid is looking down on Africa. “And there won’t be snow in Africa this Christmas time/The greatest gift they’ll get this year is life/Where nothing ever grows, no rain or rivers flow/Do they know it’s Christmas time at all?” makes a stereotypical statement that people in Africa have nothing except their life. On top of that, many African countries actually celebrate Christmas (They do know it’s Christmas, Band Aid).

2. “Last Christmas” by Wham!

“Last Christmas” is by far one of the worst Christmas songs to ever exist. It is the epitome of fragile masculinity with lines like “Now, I know what a fool I’ve been/But if you kissed me now/I know you’d fool me again” and “This year, to save me from tears/I’ll give it to someone special.” Many lines contradict, as the singer can’t decide if his lover is a cold-hearted snake or the one that got away. The abhorrent song is not catchy nor worthy of being deemed “a classic.”

1. “Santa Baby” by Michael Bublé

This pick may be controversial, as many see Michael Bublé as the modern king of Christmas; however, Bublé absolutely butchers this classic. The song starts off nostalgic and great until the words “Santa buddy” are uttered. After that, the song continues to get worse. With changes such as “Santa buddy, a sixty five convertible too/Steel blue,” it is hard not to cringe at the attempt to make “Santa Baby” more masculine. Bublé’s risk did not pay off, landing him as the artist of the worst Christmas song.

While the Christmas season is quickly approaching, make sure to listen to all your favorite songs while shopping or studying for finals. Comment below if you agree with our picks, or if you have any favorites/least favorites that didn’t make the cut.