The enduring popularity of Christmas classics can be attributed to their familiarity and universal themes of love, joy, and togetherness. Songs like “Jingle Bells” and “Silent Night” have been reimagined countless times because listeners crave that sense of tradition during the holidays.
Yet, for artists, creating a new Christmas hit can be a daunting task. Competing with classics that have been beloved for decades is no small feat. Still, a handful of modern musicians have risen to the challenge, crafting original holiday tracks that stand out in a crowded field of covers.
1. Sia – Everyday Is Christmas
Sia took the holiday music world by storm with her 2017 album Everyday Is Christmas, a collection of entirely original Christmas songs. Tracks like “Santa’s Coming for Us” and “Candy Cane Lane” showcase her signature blend of whimsical lyrics and upbeat melodies, giving the holiday genre a fresh, playful energy.
Sia’s refusal to lean on traditional holiday tropes, instead opting for quirky storytelling and inventive production, has made her Christmas album a standout in modern holiday music.
2. Ariana Grande – Christmas & Chill
Pop sensation Ariana Grande brought her sultry vocals and R&B influences to the holiday season with her 2015 EP Christmas & Chill. Featuring original tracks like “Santa Tell Me” and “True Love,” Grande’s holiday collection has become a favorite for fans who appreciate a contemporary twist on festive music.
With its sleek production and modern vibe, Christmas & Chill appeals to younger audiences looking for something fresh yet undeniably festive.
3. Mariah Carey – “All I Want for Christmas Is You”
No discussion of modern Christmas music is complete without mentioning Mariah Carey’s 1994 megahit “All I Want for Christmas Is You.” While the song is now considered a classic, it’s worth noting that it was an entirely original composition at the time—a bold move in a market saturated with covers.
Carey’s mix of retro Motown-inspired production and heartfelt lyrics struck gold, making the track a perennial chart-topper and setting the gold standard for contemporary Christmas songs.
4. Kelly Clarkson – Wrapped in Red
Kelly Clarkson has embraced the Christmas spirit with multiple original songs, particularly on her 2013 album Wrapped in Red. Tracks like “Underneath the Tree” and “Wrapped in Red” highlight her powerhouse vocals and knack for writing holiday tunes that feel both fresh and timeless.
Clarkson’s ability to balance traditional holiday themes with her unique pop-rock style has made her a staple of modern Christmas playlists.
5. Jonas Brothers – “Like It’s Christmas”
The Jonas Brothers joined the contemporary Christmas music scene in 2019 with their single “Like It’s Christmas.” The song blends festive cheer with the group’s signature pop sound, making it an instant hit among their fanbase and beyond.
With its catchy chorus and feel-good vibe, “Like It’s Christmas” is a perfect example of how modern artists can create original holiday music that feels effortlessly classic.
6. Kacey Musgraves – A Very Kacey Christmas
Kacey Musgraves brought her country flair to the holiday genre with her 2016 album A Very Kacey Christmas. While the album includes some covers of traditional songs, original tracks like “Ribbons and Bows” and “Christmas Makes Me Cry” showcase her ability to blend heartfelt lyrics with a playful, vintage aesthetic.
Musgraves’ unique approach to Christmas music appeals to fans of both country and indie-pop, making her album a holiday must-listen.
7. Kanye West – “Christmas in Harlem”
Kanye West ventured into the holiday genre with the 2010 single “Christmas in Harlem,” featuring CyHi the Prynce and Teyana Taylor. The song blends soulful beats and introspective lyrics, offering a modern, urban take on Christmas.
With its smooth production and reflective tone, “Christmas in Harlem” stands out as a contemporary holiday track that eschews traditional themes in favor of a more personal narrative.
Why Original Christmas Songs Matter
While covers of classic holiday tunes provide the comforting familiarity we crave during the season, original Christmas songs inject new life into the genre. Artists like Sia, Ariana Grande, and Kelly Clarkson demonstrate that there’s still room for innovation in holiday music, offering tracks that resonate with today’s audiences while honoring the spirit of the season.
Conclusion
Contemporary Christmas music is proof that the holiday genre isn’t stuck in the past. By blending modern sounds with timeless themes, artists like Mariah Carey, Sia, and Kanye West are creating holiday songs that feel both fresh and enduring.
Looking to update your holiday playlist? Dive into these modern hits and experience the magic of a new era in Christmas music! 🎄