The holiday season would be incomplete without the warm and festive tunes that fill the air. Mariah Carey's iconic "All I Want for Christmas Is You" is synonymous with Christmas cheer and has dominated holiday playlists worldwide since its release in 1994. But Mariah Carey isn’t the only artist to have achieved massive success in the Christmas music arena. Here’s a look at other artists who have also made their mark with unforgettable holiday hits and albums.
One of the earliest and most iconic voices of Christmas, Bing Crosby’s 1942 rendition of "White Christmas" holds the Guinness World Record as the best-selling single worldwide, with estimated sales over 50 million copies. Crosby’s soothing baritone brought a sense of calm and nostalgia to the holiday season during a turbulent time in history. "White Christmas" has not only endured through decades but remains a holiday staple across generations.
Elvis Presley added a rock ‘n’ roll twist to holiday music with his Elvis’ Christmas Album, released in 1957. This album included holiday classics like “Blue Christmas” and “Santa Claus Is Back in Town,” showcasing Elvis’s ability to blend traditional holiday cheer with his unique rock style. The album has since become one of the best-selling Christmas albums of all time, proving Elvis’s influence extended well beyond his signature rock hits.
Known for his smooth voice and classic style, Michael Bublé has become a holiday music powerhouse. His 2011 album Christmas topped charts worldwide and included a mix of classic Christmas standards and new favorites. With over 12 million copies sold globally, the album has become a holiday season essential, and Bublé’s velvety vocals have earned him the nickname “The King of Christmas” for a new generation.
Nat King Cole’s “The Christmas Song (Chestnuts Roasting on an Open Fire)” is one of the most recognized Christmas songs globally. Originally recorded in 1946, Cole’s rendition of the song remains timeless. His warm and inviting voice has the power to evoke holiday nostalgia, and his version of “The Christmas Song” has been played in homes worldwide for over seven decades, making it a true holiday classic.
Pentatonix, the a cappella group known for their stunning harmonies, have quickly become synonymous with modern Christmas music. Their 2014 album That’s Christmas to Me includes both covers of holiday classics and original songs, and it has since become one of the top-selling Christmas albums of the decade. With multiple Christmas albums in their discography, Pentatonix has redefined holiday music for younger audiences, showcasing that Christmas music doesn’t need instruments to captivate listeners.
Brenda Lee’s “Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree,” released in 1958, is a lively holiday tune that continues to chart each December. Its upbeat rockabilly sound and Lee’s playful vocals bring an infectious joy that keeps it relevant year after year. The song’s cross-generational appeal has made it a mainstay on holiday playlists, and its appearance in popular holiday films like Home Alone only strengthens its enduring charm.
George Michael’s “Last Christmas,” performed by Wham! in 1984, has become one of the most-played holiday songs. Its bittersweet lyrics set against an upbeat melody provide a unique take on Christmas music. Despite being over three decades old, “Last Christmas” finds its way onto holiday charts globally every year, proving its timeless appeal.
In more recent years, Ariana Grande’s Christmas & Chill EP has brought a modern twist to Christmas music with original songs like “Santa Tell Me.” Released in 2014, the song has become a holiday favorite, especially among younger listeners, adding fresh energy to the genre with Grande’s pop influence and youthful charm.
Andy Williams’ “It’s the Most Wonderful Time of the Year” has become a Christmas anthem since its release in 1963. The song’s upbeat tempo and cheerful lyrics encapsulate the joy and magic of the season, making it a go-to track for holiday gatherings and parties. Williams' iconic voice and timeless delivery have solidified this song as a quintessential part of Christmas.
While Mariah Carey’s “All I Want for Christmas Is You” may dominate the holiday season, several other artists have achieved their own lasting success with Christmas music. From Bing Crosby’s classics to Ariana Grande’s modern hits, holiday music has the ability to transcend time and bring people together. Whether you’re into timeless tunes or contemporary holiday hits, there’s a Christmas song for everyone to enjoy and add to their festive playlists.
