As the holiday season approaches, it's time to dust off your favorite Christmas playlists and add some fresh tunes to elevate your holiday spirit. While classic Christmas songs hold a special place in our hearts, modern covers by younger artists bring a unique twist to these timeless classics. From chill ballads to upbeat dance tracks, there's something for everyone to enjoy this festive season.
Whether you're a fan of pop, rock, or alternative music, the following list of top 20 best Christmas covers will surely get you in the holiday mood. These selections showcase the versatility and creativity of contemporary artists who have put their own spin on traditional Christmas songs. So grab a cup of hot cocoa, snuggle up by the fire, and let's dive into this wonderful world of modern Christmas music!
Modern Takes on Holiday Classics
When it comes to finding good Christmas albums featuring younger or more modern singers, there are plenty of options beyond Michael Bublé and Pentatonix. Many contemporary artists have released their own versions of classic Christmas songs, offering fresh perspectives that appeal to today's audiences. These updated takes often incorporate current musical styles while still maintaining the essence of the original tracks.
Some popular choices include Mariah Carey's iconic All I Want For Christmas Is You, which has become a modern holiday staple, as well as Justin Bieber's rendition of Mistletoe and Ariana Grande's collaboration with The Weeknd and Ty Dolla $ign on Santa Tell Me. Each artist brings their unique voice and style to these beloved songs, creating memorable listening experiences for fans around the globe.
In addition to individual tracks, many modern singers have released full-length Christmas albums showcasing their interpretations of various holiday favorites. These projects allow listeners to experience an entire collection of reimagined classics all in one place, making them perfect additions to any seasonal playlist.
Alternative Yuletide Coolness
For those seeking something different from the usual Christmas fare, there are numerous cool Christmas songs available that offer an alternative take on the holiday spirit. Bands like Weezer, AC/DC, Alice Cooper, Guns N' Roses, and even the Sex Pistols have all contributed their own edgy versions of traditional carols. These rock-infused renditions provide a refreshing change of pace during the festive season.
Weezer's We Wish You A Merry Christmas combines catchy melodies with quirky lyrics, while AC/DC's Mistress For Christmas adds a heavy metal edge to proceedings. Meanwhile, Alice Cooper's Santa Claus Is Coming To Town transforms the cheery tune into a darker, more ominous affair. Fans of punk rock may enjoy the Sex Pistols' irreverent take on Jingle Bells, which strips away sentimentality in favor of raw energy.
These unconventional covers not only showcase the diverse ways artists can reinterpret familiar material but also cater to listeners who prefer less conventional sounds during the holidays. By incorporating elements of rock, punk, and other genres, they create a distinct atmosphere that stands apart from mainstream offerings.
Festive Rock Anthems
Rock music lovers needn't worry about being left out when it comes to celebrating Christmas through song. There exists a wealth of fantastic rock covers of classic Christmas tunes just waiting to be discovered. Artists such as My Chemical Romance (MCR), Fall Out Boy (FOB), David Bowie, and others have delivered powerful performances that capture both the excitement and nostalgia associated with the holiday season.
My Chemical Romance's cover of White Christmas features haunting vocals over dramatic instrumentation, giving the traditionally gentle piece an intense makeover. Similarly, Fall Out Boy injects youthful exuberance into their version of Do They Know It's Christmas? resulting in an invigorating listen. Then there's David Bowie's legendary duet with Bing Crosby on Peace On Earth/Little Drummer Boy, blending two very different voices into something truly magical.
By exploring these rock interpretations of cherished Christmas songs, fans can discover new dimensions within familiar compositions. They serve as reminders that no matter what genre you prefer, there's always room for innovation and expression when honoring the joyous occasion of Christmas.
