Christmas music is an essential for the holiday season. What is a Christmas memory without festive music playing in the background?
I am sure almost every Christmas song is someone’s favorite and holds a special place in their hearts; But nonetheless not all of these songs were created equal.
As a self-proclaimed professional listener of music, I will be sharing my favorite Christmas songs and a couple that should have never been brought into the studio.
“Cindy Loo Who?” – Sabrina Carpenter
In 2023 Sabrina Carpenter graced us with her Christmas album, “Fruitcake.” Track three, “Cindy Loo Who?” Does not necessarily reflect the Christmas spirit in its lyrics, but rather incorporates the sounds of a traditional Christmas song. I think it is a cool experimental take on the classic Christmas song.
“All I want for Christmas is You” -Mariah Carey
Let’s be honest, it would not be Christmas without Mariah Carey. To be frank, the reason it is my favorite has nothing to do with Carey’s vocal talent or how catchy the song is. I love the song because it embodies the start of the season. Nothing beats the memes of Carey trapped in ice that slowly cracks as Christmas approaches.
“Is it New Year yet?” – Sabrina Carpenter
“Is it New Year yet?” is another song from the album “Fruitcake.” Like many other songs on the track it does not conform to the regular christmas song standard, but it is definitely an original take. Instead of discussing the joy of the holiday season, Carpenter comments on the displeasure of the holiday season. She mentions the family arguments, loneliness and disappointment. The song, although depressing in premise, has an upbeat tempo. It is a fun song if you want to mix it up a bit.
Despite my overall love of Christmas, I have a problem with some of the songs.
“Baby it’s Cold Outside” -Dean Martin
If there was a competition for creepiest songs ever this song would be in second place, right behind “Every Breath You Take” by The Police. “Baby it’s Cold Outside” tells the story of a man and a snowstorm basically holding a woman hostage. She wants to leave Mr. Dean Martin, just let her.
“Last Christmas” – Wham!
This song has some pretty great remakes. The queen of Covers Kelly Clarkson executed it perfectly; however, ‘Wham!’ Did not. The song itself has nothing wrong with it is just that it sounds bad to be frank, in comparison to Clarkson’s version.
“Mistletoe” –Justin Bieber
I love pop music, however one Parker Durrance, claims it is repetitive and formulaic; while I would usually disagree with him I will make an exception for “Mistletoe.” This song has, basically, one word. And you guessed it! It’s Mistletoe.
Even if I dislike some of these songs I understand that every Christmas song is a favorite of someone’s. No matter how bad they are, it is the memories that count.
