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Try something new this season!
By Erin Watson — Written on Dec 17, 2020
If you’re sick of those typical holiday songs playing constantly in every store and on every radio station this time of year, we have some obscure Christmas songs that you probably haven't heard of before — but they're so good!
The classics are classics for a reason, of course. But there are plenty of other fantastic holiday songs out there that don’t get the attention they deserve.
Underrated & Obscure Christmas Songs
Read on to change up your holiday playlist this season; you’ll never want to go back!
1.“Santa, Teach Me to Dance” by Debbie & The Darnels
A funky Christmas tune by 60's girl group Debbie & The Darnels, this upbeat song will have you dance wrapping all your presents this year!
2. “It Must Be Santa” by Bob Dylan
You may not typically associate Bob Dylan with Christmas but that’s all about to change with this catchy tune. Put it on next time you’re in the mood to really get in the holiday spirit.
3. “Please Daddy (Don’t Get Drunk This Christmas)” by the Decemberists (John Denver cover)
A slightly sad title, this song is one of those where you don’t realize how sad it is until you look up the lyrics because it’s so catchy. It’s on you can tap your foot to as you sing the ballad with all your heart.
4. “Christmastime (O Yeah)” by Barenaked Ladies
If you want a more relaxing and chill song for your holiday mix, this song is perfect to listen to on a cold winter’s night.
5. “Donde Esta Santa Claus?” by Augie Rios
Augie Rios creates the perfect fun little song to hum to yourself this season with “Donde Esta Santa Claus?” It’s just so incredibly catchy!
6. “Elohai, N'Tzor” by Pink Martini
Based on a Jewish prayer, this song is both beautiful and relaxing and is incredibly unique. Say goodbye to the basics and try something new!
7. “The Christmas Song” by The Raveonettes
Chill vibes meet the holidays with this Raveonettes song. Slightly rock, slightly Christmas, all fun.
8. “My Dear Acquaintance (Happy New Year)” by Regina Spektor (Peggy Lee cover)
You’ll be looking toward the new year with this beautiful and peaceful song. It’s the perfect tune to ring in 2021.
9. "Dear Santa (Bring Me A Man This Christmas)" by The Weather Girls
Famous for their hit song “It’s Raining Men,” The Weather Girls are back and better than ever with this Christmas hit!
10. "Christmas In Jail – Ain't That A Pain" by Leroy Carr
Blues fans will adore this song by Leroy Carr with its interesting title and catchy beat. Put it on next time you’re in the mood for some bluesy vibes.
11. "I Remember Christmas" by The Drifters
Combining the nostalgic feeling of past Christmases, with a catchy tune and poignant lyrics, this is the quintessential holiday song.
12. "I'm Gonna Lasso Santa Claus" by Brenda Lee
Recorded when she was just 11, this song is full of fun and sass. Say hello to your new singing obsession.
13. "Christmas Rhapsody" by Pledge Drive
A remarkable parody of Queen’s “Bohemian Rhapsody,” Pledge Drive adds the holiday kick we didn’t know we needed to the beloved classic.
14. “Ludacrismas” by Ludacris
If you didn’t know rapper Ludacris had a Christmas song, you are not alone. This is one of the best genre mashups out there, with what sounds like a hardcore rap song that is actually about the holidays and Santa Claus. It’s also ridiculously catchy.
15. “Ave Maria” by Chris Cornell with Eleven
An unexpected artist to cover a Christmas song, but it actually really works. It’s a unique take on the classic song and one you should add to your mix this season.
16. “Patapan/Noel Nouvelet” by Nancy Rumbel
A little different from the typical holiday song, this is a lovely little instrumental tune that feels a bit magical and captures the vibe of the holidays perfectly.
17. “Sweeney’s Buttermilk” by Micheal O’Domhanail
Another instrumental song, this one is perfect for anyone obsessed with fiddles and Irish music. It’s tons of fun and will have you spinning around your home.
18. “Don’t Shoot Me Santa” by The Killers
This rock/Christmas song is funky and definitely not a typical holiday song. The Killers deliver a unique tune to try out this season.
19. “A Winter’s Tale” by Queen
Queen does what Queen does best in this lovely winter song. This is one you can really belt out in the car on your way to work.
20. “Space Christmas” by Allo Darling
A simple melody and a great tune to hum along to, try this song if you’re in the mood for something new.
21. “10,000 Watts” by Crystal Antlers
Adding some rock into your holiday, this song is anything but typical. It’s perfect for all those head-banging rock fans!
22. “I Heard the Bells on Christmas Day” by Johnny Cash
Who doesn’t love Johnny Cash? Who doesn’t love Christmas music? The two combine in this wonderful song that will be your new favorite.
23. “Nutmeg” by John Legend and Stephen Colbert
An unlikely duo, this silly and sexual song is both ridiculously funny and catchy at the same time. It’s definitely not your typical holiday tune!
24. "Five Pound Box of Money" by Pearl Bailey
Telling like it is in this holiday song that’s all about how money is the best present to give, Bailey wows with this catchy little Christmas tune.
25. "Lonely Pup" by Adam Faith
A 1960’s hit that should never be forgotten, this song is ideal for those classic Christmas song lovers.
26. “All I Need Is Love” by Ceelo Green and The Muppets
What a combination this is! Who would have thought rapper Ceelo Green and The Muppets could create such an iconic Christmas classic?
27. “Ukrainian Carol” by Spencer Brewer
A classic song, but one of our favorites unique versions, this song is a classic for a reason. Why not try a different version this season?
28. “We Three Kings” by Charm City Junction
Another Christmas favorite, “We Three Kings” gets an update with this version by Charm City Junction. Try this version out if you feel like humming the tune for the rest of the day!
29. “Return Of The Magi” by John Doan
An ideal song to curl up to or unwind from a hard day at work with, this instrumental song is the epitome of Christmas peace.
30. “The Little Drum Machine Boy” by Beck
Sleighbells and cowbells combine in this wild and funky Christmas tune by Beck. It’s seven minutes long so strap in for some interesting sounds and unique lyrics.
Erin Watson is an Editorial Intern, Her main focuses are entertainment, relationships, and horoscopes.