One of my favorite things about December is listing to all of the lovely music. It’s the most wonderful time of the year. Christmas is coming, the goose is getting fat. Just hear those sleigh bells ringaling, jing-ting-tingling. O Holy Night.

There are so many songs that define the holiday season for me. There are the songs that I grew up with that remind me of memories of my family and childhood celebrations, like Bing Crosby’s “White Christmas”. There are the modern songs that are just as dear to my heart to enjoy during the holidays…like more songs on Amy Grant’s Christmas albums than I can count. Today I wanted to share some of my favorite holiday tunes.

“Little Drummer Boy/Peace on Earth” by  Bing Crosby and David Bowie

Although there are plenty of versions of this song, there is something fun, retro, and whimsical about the Carpenters version. I can’t help but sing along and wish I was dancing along, wearing white leisure suits with red sequins.

“Last Christmas” by Wham!

I  am aware that you will either love this song or hate this song. I’m in the love category. I love the smooth crooning voice of George Michael, the synthesizers, and the ridiculous lyrics. Don’t hate me because I love cheesy 80’s music.

“God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen/We Three Kings” by Barenaked Ladies and Sarah McLachlan

One the most genius collaborations of Canadian music superstars, BNL and Sarah McLachlan recorded this mashup of “God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen” and “We Three Kings” in 2004. Although I tend to prefer traditional music at Christmas, this is one of my very favorite holiday songs to hear at Christmas.

Now, sometimes it’s hard to decide which version of a song you love more. What do you think? Modern or traditional?

“Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas” by Judy Garland

“Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas” by Coldplay

Which Christmas songs do you love?