Holiday songs have a unique ability to evoke nostalgia and joy making them an essential part of festive celebrations. Whether it’s the timeless classics like “Jingle Bells” and “Silent Night”or modern favorites like “All I Want for Christmas Is You,” these tunes create a lively atmosphere that brings people together. The melodies and lyrics often carry cherished memories, reminding us of holiday traditions, cozy gatherings, and the spirit of giving. Each person’s favorite holiday song is a soundtrack to the season, contributing to the warmth and magic of this special time of year.
Have a listen to what some local residents are jamming to this month.
Daisy Bibb Miller Davidson, Ortega
If COVID taught us nothing else, it was painfully clear how important celebrations are in our lives with Christmas at the top of the list completed by a joyful soundtrack to set our spirits in high gear.
From classics like Bing Crosby’s White Christmas to Feliz Navidad to Michael Jackson swearing he saw Mom kissing Santa, we all have favorites! Topping my list is Bruce Springsteen belting out his live version of Santa Claus is Comin’ to Town questioning our annual behavior, Bob Geldof’s classic compilation of Do They Know It’s Christmas. I remain in awe of his impressive feat of assimilating such incredible talent and the song itself reminding us of our blessings.
However, nothing beats a packed, well-decorated church on Christmas Eve ending with a candlelit a Capella singing of Silent Night. That moment of true peace and pause in the midst of the hustle and bustle reminds our family who brings us together in blessed celebration. Merry Christmas.
Brenda Miley, Westside
- Rocking Around the Christmas Tree, by Brenda Lee. This one puts me in the Christmas spirit and makes me want to sing along and dance. It never gets too old.
- Bells Will Be Ringing, by Charles Brown. It’s a beautiful song that means so much to me personally. Music brings out all sorts of emotions for me.
- It’s Christmas Time, Elvis Presley. I’ve loved this song ever since I was a little girl and I would sing my part when he says, “You wanna see me in a big black Cadillac.”
Larry Neill, Southside
I listen to Christmas music regularly during the holidays. Doesn’t Nat King Cole’s Chestnuts Roasting On An Open Fire say Christmas to everyone? It is so good and no one can sing it like him. When I decorate my tree I listen to classical Christmas music. It’s relaxing and puts me in the holiday spirit.
I am a Christmas music fan and I enjoy the various aspects of Christmas. Oh Holy Night is at the top of my list which tells us about the true meaning of Christmas. It’s tied for first place as my all time favorite along with Mary Did You Know but it depends on who’s singing it. The classic White Christmas is good for the nostalgia of Christmases gone by. The song that really resonates with me and touches my heart is I’ll Be Home for Christmas because it reminds me of my time in the service as a young man ten thousand miles away from home on a very special holiday.
Photo Credit: Any Lane
