Ten Christmas Tunes You Can’t Do Without This Holiday Season [POLL]
There are thousands upon thousands of Christmas songs that have been done, and redone, by tons of artists.
Most are of the traditional variety, like "O Holy Night," "Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer," "Sleigh Ride" and "I'll Be Home for Christmas." Others are original tunes recorded for an artist's special Christmas album, and re-recorded by very few -- if any -- other artists. Everyone has a list of holiday songs they enjoy most. Here are ten of my personal favorites.
- 1
Do They Know It's Christmas? - Band Aid
I never get tired of this one! It features most of my favorite artists of the 80's...Simon LeBon of Duran Duran, Sting, Bono of U2, George Michael from Wham!, Paul Young, Boy George (yes, I liked Culture Club, too). And, of course, DD's John Taylor jamming on the bass. This one is tops for me every Christmas.
- 2
Last Christmas - Wham!
NOT to be confused with the redone Taylor Swift version! This tune, written by George Michael, was the B side to Wham!'s 1984 hit "Everything She Wants." I've loved it ever since.
- 3
Step Into Christmas - Elton John
This original Christmas tune was written by Elton John and Bernie Taupin, and released in 1973. All these years later, it's still a fun and uplifting piece of work.
- 4
Wonderful Christmastime - Paul McCartney & Wings
No Beatles fan could go without hearing this one during the Christmas season. It's a feel-good holiday favorite!
- 5
Run Rudolph Run
Whether sung by Bryan Adams, Sheryl Crow or Chuck Berry, I really haven't heard one bad version of this one. It's so much fun!
- 6
Santa Claus is Coming to Town - Bruce Springsteen
I've heard a lot of versions of this classic, but this is my favorite -- mainly because of saxophonist Clarence Clemons' Ho Ho Hos in the background near the end. And The Boss can't seem to quit laughing while he's singing.
- 7
All I Want for Christmas Is You - Mariah Carey
Why do I like this one? I really can't say. Maybe it's because it came out in her earlier days, when I actually liked and appreciated her work. It's just a fun song, and she does it well.
- 8
Please Come Home for Christmas - Jon Bon Jovi
I was a HUGE Bon Jovi fan once upon a time. That's the main reason I had to include this. The song itself makes me a little sad.
- 9
Sleigh Ride - Brian Setzer Orchestra
Let's face it, this guy can really put on a show! His holiday tunes are just as much fun as his others. Check out the live video if you don't believe me.
- 10
Duck the Halls - The Robertsons
This new tune for 2013 is one you simply can't live without if you live in Louisiana. It's hilarious! And given the recent Phil Robertson controversy, sales on the album are expected to soar!
- 11
HONORABLE MENTIONS
There are a few tunes that didn't make the Top 10 that are still enjoyable. I love "Happy Xmas (War is Over)," but could really do without Yoko Ono's vocals. "O Holy Night" by Josh Groban is beautiful. And "Jingle Bell Rock" by Hall & Oates and the Barry Manilow/Expose version of "Jingle Bells" are tons of fun.