By Eloise Churchman

Starting with Bublé, obvi

As cliché as this phrase is, it’s that time of the year again when many of us indulge in all the festivities, from the controversial sprouts to a decadent calendar and, of course, the music. 

Christmas songs are iconic and you can’t tell me otherwise. Whack on a bit of Bublé and everything pretty much falls into place. Whether you like religious songs, modern bops or a bit of every and anything, there’s something for you.

So, if you find yourself craving a really good Christmas playlist, (not that 20+ year-old one your mum has on repeat every year), take a look at these 30 tunes that are essential for the festive season. And yes, there are many-a classic on here, but a sprinkling of modern hits too.

1. Holly Jolly Christmas – Michael Bublé

Mr Claus himself. Does this need any more explanation?

2. All I Want For Christmas Is You – Mariah Carey

Do we have ourselves a Miss Claus?

3. Man with the Bag – Jessie J

I wonder what she means…

4. Peace On Earth/Little Drummer Boy – Bing Crosby, David Bowie

It’s physically impossible not to sing along with icons!

5. You’re a Mean One, Mr Grinch – Tyler, The Creator

The best Christmas movie in a song? Yes please.

6. Hot Chocolate – Tom Hanks

Sorry, my mistake. This is the best Christmas movie.

7. Santa Baby – Eartha Kitt

The only acceptable version of this song- sorry Bublé.

8. Step Into Christmas – Elton John

Gavin and Stacy Christmas special, anyone? (and while we’re here, what did happen on that fishing trip..)

9. 8 Days of Christmas – Destiny’s Child

Is any event complete without a bit of Bey?

10. Driving Home for Christmas – Chris Rea

My sympathies go out to anyone having to deal with the festive traffic

11. Stop the Cavalry – Jona Lewie

In what other song does a kazoo bring so much joy?

12. Jingle Bell Rock – Bibby Helms

Calling Regina George…

13. Thank God it’s Christmas – Queen

It’s Queen. That’s justification enough.

14. Fairytale of New York – The Pogues

It simply isn’t Christmas before you hear this

15. Christmas Wrapping – The Waitresses

An absolute radio staple

16. Santa Tell Me – Ariana Grande

Ariana asking all the important questions as per

17. Sleigh Ride – The Ronettes

Three minutes six seconds of pure festive fever. And yes, those seconds are cherished

18. One More Sleep – Leona Lewis

Bleeding’ lovely (get it?)

19. Christmas Lights – Coldplay

Is there any type of music that Chris Martin can’t pull off??

20. Mistletoe – Justin Bieber

Bringing back the classic Bieber vibes, Christmas edition

21. Hark! The Herald Angels Sing – Frank Sinatra

His voice transforms every tune in the best possible way

22. Feliz Navidad – José Feliciano

Perfección.

23. Deck the Halls – Nat “King” Cole

Even his name sounds festive

24. Joy To the World- Nat “King” Cole

Should we just add the whole of his Christmas album to this list?

25. Snowman – Sia

This belongs straight in a John Lewis ad

26. I Wish It Could Be Christmas Everyday – Wizzard

The ideal way to spend the year (although our bank balance might not agree)

27. Santa Claus is Coming To Town – Jackson 5

The perfect example of a festive R&B

28. Count on Christmas – Bebe Rexha

Bebe brings it every time and we’re here for it 

29. Scrooge – The Muppets

I think the muppets should cover every song, tbh

30. Warm This Winter – Gabriella Cilmi

Brb, just crying into my mulled wine

So, get adding to your streaming platform and Christmas will have tunes that everyone will love! (and seriously, if you’re a Polar Express hater, give it one more chance)