If you’re anything like me, you’re probably getting pretty sick of all the same Christmas songs constantly being overplayed everywhere you go. Here’s a few of my favorite tracks that aren’t necessarily “Christmas” songs but can still definitely put you in the holiday spirit and a joyful, hopeful mood for 2025.
“River” – Joni Mitchell, Various
While this classic Joni Mitchell ballad may take place on Christmas and even interpolate “Jingle Bells,” there’s nothing else that jolly about it. Mitchell laments over a broken relationship, describing little things she misses about her ex-partner and wanting to move on over this transcendent piano melody. An honest gut-puncher of a song but still a hopeful one at that, especially if you’re going through something similar yourself around the holidays. Truly beautiful.
“So Much Wine” – Phoebe Bridgers
In a similar vein as “River,” “So Much Wine” may sound playful and joyous on the surface, though it goes much deeper than that. Bridgers sings of a partner who’s fallen deep into alcoholism with the hopes that they’ll get sober in time for the holidays and festivities. All Bridgers really wants for Christmas is to have a normal, peaceful relationship again. It’s enough to really tug on your heartstrings.
“Blood Bank” – Bon Iver
This track always makes me think of winter. The brooding, somber tone with themes of reconnection and growth has always made it a signature Bon Iver song and a great place for anyone to start with them.
“My Favorite Things” – Julie Andrews, Various
On a lighter note, “My Favorite Things” from The Sound of Music has seen a resurgence these last few years with its subtle nods to holiday themes and gifts and goodies one could receive Christmas morning. A plethora of versions exist nowadays but nothing can beat the wonder of Julie Andrews’ signature performance.
“Wintering” – The 1975
This deep cut from The 1975’s most recent record details the narrator’s annual trip home for the holidays. Describing anything from the annual traditions, food and wacky, memorable family members. A song that any college student could relate to.
“Good Days” – SZA
Released Christmas Eve 2020, SZA’s “Good Days” was what we all needed after that hellscape of a year. Still a gorgeous, compassionate song today.
“New Years” – Rex Orange County
After a tumultuous couple years, beloved indie-pop artist Rex Orange County returned with quite an introspective record this year full of sincerity, tenderness and signs of growth. The track “New Years” was an instant highlight for me and showcases his story-driven songwriting ability, chronicling his goals and aspirations over each month of the year. Rex continues to hone in on very relatable and universal feelings and it’s nice to hear from him again.
“Snowchild” – The Weeknd
“Snowchild” sees The Weeknd at his most open and vulnerable state in a long time. Realizing that he wants to go back home, leave the noise of LA behind and live life on his own terms. A needed reminder to always do what’s best for you.
“One More Year” – Tame Impala
“Do you remember we were standing here a year ago?” This Tame Impala opener is a fantastic, reminiscent banger. One second the song might sound like church, then a club track the next. A perfect song for looking back on all you’ve accomplished.
“Last December” – Prince
Prince pulls everything from jazz, funk and gospel on this beast of a composition. “Last December” maintains our reminiscent theme of life and moving forward with a compelling symphony of a production. Easily one of his best closers from the latter half of his career and a great holiday adjacent tune.
