Welcome to Day 7 of our 25 Days of Nostalgia series!
Today, we’re turning up the volume and diving into the festive soundtracks of the 80s and 90s—the good, the bad, and the ones that make you want to hide in the corner of a shop.
Christmas music has this unique power to transport us instantly to moments filled with glittering lights, frosty windows, and the smell of mince pies in the air. For some, it’s a comforting reminder of family gatherings, presents under the tree, and those awkward-but-endearing school plays. For others, it’s the sonic equivalent of being stuck in an endless loop of tinsel-covered chaos.
Don’t get me wrong; I love Christmas music. Michael Bublé can do no wrong in my eyes, and “Driving Home for Christmas” will always have my heart. But after 37 years of hearing the same five songs on repeat, I’ve finally reached the point where even my ADHD-powered love for repetition has met its match.
There’s something almost ritualistic about these songs—whether it’s the jingle of sleigh bells or the crooning voices that instantly remind us it’s time to start panicking about buying gifts. They’re both a blessing and a curse
A Look Back at the 42 of the Best Christmas Songs of the 80s & 90s (and the Ones That Broke Us)
Whether you adore these classics or want to “Wham! yourself” out of existence by December 1st, here’s a nostalgic trip through the festive anthems that all 80s and 90s kids know off by heart!
I’ve curated a YouTube playlist with all of the featured songs (below) for all of you. Merry Christmas!
Table of Contents
1. Last Christmas – Wham! (1984)
Let’s start with the big one. “Last Christmas” used to hold a special place in my heart. The sultry vocals, the snow-covered heartbreak—it was all so dramatic and beautiful. But after hearing it for what feels like the 10,000th time, I can’t help but think, “Please, George, take my heart and don’t give it back next year.”
Alternative: Absolute silence or perhaps the sound of wrapping paper being crumpled.
2. Do They Know It’s Christmas? – Band Aid (1984)
This song is a noble cause wrapped in one of the most overplayed anthems of all time. Sure, it’s iconic, but hearing Bono belt “Tonight, thank God it’s them instead of you” in the middle of a packed Tesco somehow feels… off.
Alternative: Let’s all just donate to charity instead.
3. Driving Home for Christmas – Chris Rea (1986)
A moment of respect for this masterpiece. “Driving Home for Christmas” isn’t just a song; it’s a mood. The piano intro alone transports me to a time when life felt simpler, the roads were less congested, and petrol didn’t cost a fortune.
Alternative: Play it on repeat. Just don’t ruin it for me, world.
4. Fairytale of New York – The Pogues feat. Kirsty MacColl (1987)
This one is like the Marmite of Christmas songs—raw, chaotic, and somehow still magical. Whether you’re singing along with full conviction or awkwardly skipping the more “colourful” lyrics, it’s a song that refuses to fade into the background.
Alternative: A short nap, followed by an argument with your significant other for authenticity.
5. Step Into Christmas – Elton John (1973)
Elton gives us glitz, glam, and a side of relentless cheer. It’s impossible not to sing along, even if it does start to feel like you’re trapped in a snow globe spinning endlessly.
Alternative: Anything from Elton’s non-festive back catalogue—because who doesn’t want “Rocketman” on Christmas Day?
6. Merry Christmas Everyone – Shakin’ Stevens (1985)
This song feels like wrapping yourself in a glitter-covered scarf and spinning in circles. It’s joyful, yes, but after the fifth spin, you’re ready to sit down with a strong mulled wine.
Alternative: Go outside and scream into the cold December air. It’s free therapy.
7. All I Want For Christmas Is You – Mariah Carey (1994)
The queen of Christmas strikes again. I respect Mariah for owning the holiday season, but the problem isn’t her song—it’s the fact that it starts haunting us from mid-November. By Christmas Eve, even she must be tired of hearing herself.
Alternative: A cover of this song by your tone-deaf uncle at the family karaoke session.
8. Feliz Navidad – José Feliciano (1970)
Simple, cheerful, and relentlessly catchy, “Feliz Navidad” is the Christmas earworm that refuses to quit. It’s festive, yes, but by the 20th chorus, you’re questioning why you ever learned Spanish.
Alternative: Learning a new language entirely just to avoid the lyrics.
9. Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer – Gene Autry (1949)
An absolute staple of every childhood sing-along and shopping centre playlist. Sure, Rudolph is a hero, but even he’d probably take a break from the limelight after the thousandth rendition.
Alternative: Watching the Rudolph TV special instead. At least there are visuals to break the monotony.
10. Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree – Brenda Lee (1958)
For a song older than most of us, this one holds up surprisingly well. Still, it’s impossible to hear it and NOT picture a clichéd Christmas montage from a rom-com.
Alternative: Literally any other song about trees.
11. Lonely This Christmas – MUD (1974)
For a song about heartbreak during the most wonderful time of the year, Lonely This Christmas is surprisingly theatrical. MUD channeled their inner Elvis, crooning their way through a melancholic holiday breakup anthem that feels like it should come with a box of tissues and a shot of brandy.
While it didn’t originate in the 80s or 90s, it stayed a staple during those decades, often sneaking its way into holiday playlists when you least expected it. The song manages to be both hilariously over-the-top and genuinely heart-wrenching—perfect for those moments when the Christmas cheer feels just a bit too much.
Alternative: Writing your own dramatic ballad about being stuck in the Post Office queue instead.
12. Santa Baby – Eartha Kitt (1953)
This sultry little number is perfect for setting the mood… for Santa’s bank account to take a beating. Eartha Kitt nailed the playful tone, but hearing this while squeezing past crowds in a shopping centre feels about as luxurious as a broken escalator.
Alternative: A cold shower to snap you out of the consumerism-induced daze.
13. Let It Snow – Boyz II Men (1993)
When Boyz II Men croon about snow, you almost believe it might actually happen. Then you look out the window at grey slush and remember that “Let It Snow” is more of an aspirational anthem in the UK.
Alternative: A realistic song about sleet and drizzle. Someone should write it.
14. Merry Christmas, Happy Holidays – NSYNC (1998)
The ultimate 90s boyband holiday anthem, complete with frosted tips and matching outfits. Hearing this one always reminds me of the glory days of cheesy choreography and overly enthusiastic hand gestures. It’s festive… in a bubblegum pop kind of way.
Alternative: Watching a compilation of awkward 90s boyband interviews for a similar vibe.
15. Thank God It’s Christmas – Queen (1984)
When Queen does Christmas, you expect it to be legendary—and they delivered. Freddie Mercury’s vocals paired with a festive beat? Perfection. Though by the 15th listen in December, you might start thanking anyone for silence.
Alternative: Listening to “Bohemian Rhapsody” and pretending it’s a Christmas carol.
16. Peace on Earth/Little Drummer Boy – David Bowie & Bing Crosby (1982)
A duet so bizarre it somehow works. Bowie’s smooth vocals paired with Bing’s classic crooning created a hauntingly beautiful rendition of this carol. But after the 47th “pa rum pum pum pum,” even the drummer boy must be questioning his life choices.
Alternative: Swapping the drum for a tambourine. Let’s mix it up a bit.
17. This Gift – 98 Degrees (1999)
Ah, 98 Degrees—the lesser-mentioned cousin of NSYNC and Backstreet Boys. This song is romantic, heartwarming, and makes you question why you didn’t marry a boyband member who’d sing you love songs under the mistletoe.
Alternative: A heartfelt handwritten note. Same effect, less effort.
18. 2000 Miles – The Pretenders (1983)
A melancholy and underrated gem, “2000 Miles” is a love letter to the bittersweet side of the holidays. It’s beautiful, emotional, and perfect for staring dramatically out of a frosty window.
Alternative: Turning your phone to airplane mode so you don’t have to deal with anyone for a while.
19. Frosty the Snowman – Gene Autry (1950)
Frosty’s tale of winter magic has delighted kids for decades. But, if you’re stuck waiting in line at the Post Office, listening to his jolly story just makes you wish you could melt into a puddle and avoid the queue altogether.
Alternative: Imagining Mr. Frosty living his best life in a tropical climate. He deserves it.
20. Christmas in Hollis – Run-D.M.C. (1987)
This is the Christmas song that tells it like it is—Santa lost his wallet, the kids are cooking collard greens, and the holidays are funky as ever. If you’re tired of tinsel and sentimentality, this one’s a refreshing change.
Alternative: Watching a holiday movie where Santa actually works for a living.
21. Blue Christmas – Elvis Presley (1957)
Elvis brings all the heartbreak and crooning to the holiday season. It’s perfect for staring dramatically out of a frosted window and contemplating why the turkey won’t defrost in time for dinner.
Alternative: Literally any other Elvis song. “Jailhouse Rock” is festive if you believe hard enough.
22. Sleigh Ride – TLC (1993)
A hip-hop twist on a classic, because nothing says Christmas like a sleigh ride… in Atlanta. TLC’s version adds a festive edge, but after a while, even Left Eye’s charm can’t keep the reindeer moving.
Alternative: Taking a real sleigh ride. If you can find snow.
23. Grandma Got Run Over by a Reindeer – Elmo & Patsy (1979)
Ah, the ultimate dark comedy Christmas song. It’s all fun and games until you picture your actual nan involved in a reindeer-related incident. Then again, this one’s always good for a laugh at the family party.
Alternative: A genuine moment of concern for Grandma’s well-being.
24. Happy Xmas (War Is Over) – John Lennon & Yoko Ono (1971)
A beautiful message of peace, but if you’ve been stuck in holiday queues or dealing with family drama, the line “And so this is Christmas” starts to hit a little too hard. Thanks for the existential crisis, John.
Alternative: A deep breath and a reminder that January is just around the corner.
25. Jingle Bell Rock – Bobby Helms (1957)
It’s upbeat, catchy, and absolutely everywhere. “Jingle Bell Rock” is the song that plays in the background of every Christmas advert and rom-com montage. It’s fine… until you hear it twice in one shop.
Alternative: Reenact the Mean Girls dance to make it tolerable.
26. Deck the Halls – Traditional
A cheery favourite for carollers everywhere, but let’s be honest: most of us don’t know what “don we now our gay apparel” actually means. Still, it’s great for a quick round of fa-la-la-las before collapsing on the sofa.
Alternative: Decking yourself in a blanket and skipping the halls altogether.
27. I Wish It Could Be Christmas Everyday – Wizzard (1973)
Oh, Wizzard, if only you knew how exhausting it is to hear this on loop in every shop, café, and petrol station. The irony is, by the third listen, you absolutely do NOT wish it could be Christmas every day.
Alternative: Earplugs. Wonderful, blessed earplugs.
28. Silent Night – Traditional
A timeless classic. But when you’re juggling screaming kids, burnt stuffing, and the dog eating the Christmas ham, the idea of a silent night feels more like a cruel joke than a carol.
Alternative: Playing this one after bedtime. Finally, some peace.
29. Christmas Shoes – NewSong (2000)
This emotional ballad about a young boy buying shoes for his sick mum is a guaranteed tearjerker. Play this if you want the whole room to dissolve into awkward sniffles. You’ve been warned.
Alternative: Watching “It’s a Wonderful Life” instead—still emotional, but less painful.
30. Santa Claus Is Coming to Town – Bruce Springsteen (1985)
The Boss warning us about Santa’s impending arrival, as if we hadn’t been reminded enough. It’s festive, sure, but hearing it play during a gym workout in December feels like someone’s making fun of you for skipping leg day.
Alternative: Taking Santa’s advice and writing down everyone else’s faults for a change.
31. Christmas Time – Backstreet Boys (1996)
The Backstreet Boys gave us this sweet, sentimental ballad, reminding us that even pop stars get emotional at Christmas. It’s perfect for the teenage diary vibes, but listening to it while wrapping presents might make you wonder why the gifts don’t wrap themselves.
Alternative: Wrapping one present, then calling it a day with some takeaway and a glass of wine.
32. Wonderful Christmastime – Paul McCartney (1979)
Sir Paul may be a legend, but this song feels like it was written in five minutes on a Casio keyboard. By the time you’ve heard it for the 12th time in one shopping trip, it’s hard not to wish for anything else.
Alternative: Pressing random buttons on your kid’s toy piano to replicate the melody.
33. Funky, Funky Xmas – New Kids on the Block (1989)
When NKOTB decided to add “funky” to Christmas, they weren’t kidding. This song is so over-the-top festive that it feels like the musical equivalent of someone decorating their entire house with flashing lights.
Alternative: A moment of quiet contemplation about why “funky” was necessary.
34. 8 Days of Christmas – Destiny’s Child (1999)
Beyoncé and crew turned the traditional 12 days of Christmas into a modern shopping list. If you’re not careful, this one will make you question why your partner didn’t buy you diamond earrings AND a Lexus.
Alternative: Realising you’re lucky to get socks and a chocolate orange.
35. Sleigh Ride – Johnny Mathis (1958)
Johnny’s jazzy rendition of this classic adds a little extra bounce to the festive season. Unfortunately, by December 15th, even imaginary sleigh rides start to feel exhausting.
Alternative: Taking a real sleigh ride… if the weather and budget allow. (They won’t.)
36. Happy Holidays – Andy Williams (1963)
Andy’s voice is smooth as butter, but the cheery lyrics might start to feel more like passive-aggressive suggestions after a long day of Christmas shopping. “Happy Holidays” starts sounding more like a challenge than a wish.
Alternative: Replacing “Happy Holidays” with “Happy Nap” and calling it a win.
37. Christmas Wrapping – Spice Girls (1998)
The Spice Girls’ festive anthem Christmas Wrapping didn’t just wish us a happy holiday—it screamed it with glitter, platform boots, and enough “girl power” to fuel a sleigh ride to the North Pole. Released during their golden era, this song was equal parts cheerful and kitschy, perfectly capturing the over-the-top holiday vibes of the late 90s.
With lyrics about love, togetherness, and a sprinkle of holiday magic, it became a staple for Spice Girls fans worldwide. Listening to it now is like unwrapping a time capsule of 90s nostalgia—complete with tinsel and a slightly cringe-worthy music video.
Alternative: Rewatching their Viva Forever video and pretending it’s festive. Close enough, right?
38. Little Saint Nick – The Beach Boys (1963)
The Beach Boys bring their signature surf vibes to Christmas with this cheery track. It’s fun, but imagining Santa surfing through snow drifts is a bit of a stretch, even for Christmas enthusiasts.
Alternative: Listening to “Kokomo” and pretending it’s snowing in the Caribbean.
39. This Christmas – Donny Hathaway (1970)
Soulful and smooth, Donny Hathaway’s “This Christmas” is a must-play for any holiday playlist. It’s warm, festive, and—dare I say it—almost too classy for the chaos of wrapping gifts.
Alternative: Letting the kids wrap the gifts and playing this to drown out their arguments.
40. I Saw Mommy Kissing Santa Claus – Jackson 5 (1970)
A childhood classic that’s both adorable and a bit unsettling if you think too much about it. Little Michael Jackson’s vocals bring an innocence to the song, but as an adult, you can’t help but feel a bit awkward imagining the scenario.
Alternative: Pretend you didn’t see anything and pour yourself some eggnog.
41. Christmas Time (Don’t Let the Bells End) – The Darkness (2003)
A rock anthem with all the ridiculousness of The Darkness. Falsettos, sleigh bells, and over-the-top guitar riffs make this a unique addition to any holiday playlist. But it’s definitely a bit much for a quiet Christmas Eve. Sure it’s not from our generation, but the Darkness and all their Lowestoftian charm deserved a small mention as most 80’s and 90’s kids will believe in a thing called love.
Alternative: Something acoustic to mellow out before bed.
42. Do You Hear What I Hear? – Whitney Houston (1987)
Whitney’s powerful vocals turn this classic into an awe-inspiring anthem. It’s soulful, moving, and definitely deserves a spot on your holiday playlist. But after the tenth replay, you might need something a little more laid-back.
Alternative: A gentle instrumental version to wind things down.
Finale
And there you have it—42 Christmas songs that defined the 80s and 90s (and a few more for good measure). Whether they bring you joy, laughter, or the overwhelming desire to skip town until January, these festive anthems are soundtrack to the season.
Which of these songs makes your holiday playlist, and which one has you diving for the mute button? Share your thoughts below, and don’t forget to join us tomorrow for Day 8 of our 25 Days of Nostalgia series!
