The Ultimate Christmas Playlist: The Most Streamed English Songs Every Year

When the first chill of winter hits the air and shop windows start sparkling with lights, you know it’s time. It is time to “defrost” the holiday playlists!

Christmas just wouldn’t be the same without the music. While new songs are released every year, there are certain classics that dominate the charts decade after decade. These are the tracks that define the holiday season.

Here is a roundup of the most-listened-to English Christmas songs that are essential for your holiday playlist this year.

1. The Modern Anthem: “All I Want for Christmas Is You” – Mariah Carey

“I don’t want a lot for Christmas, there is just one thing I need…”

No Christmas list is legal without the “Queen of Christmas” herself. Released in 1994, this song has become a cultural phenomenon.

  • The Vibe: High-energy Pop/R&B with sleigh bells that make you want to dance immediately.

  • Why it rules: It consistently returns to #1 on the Billboard Hot 100 every December. It is arguably the most successful holiday song in modern history.

  • Watch it: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aAkMkVFwAoo

2. The Nostalgic Classic: “Last Christmas” – Wham!

If Mariah brings the party, Wham! brings the feelings. This 80s synth-pop masterpiece is perfect for those who love a bit of nostalgia.

  • The Vibe: A bittersweet tale of heartbreak set to a catchy, upbeat melody.

  • Fun Fact: It is one of the most covered songs in history, with versions by artists ranging from Taylor Swift to Ariana Grande, but the George Michael original remains the gold standard.

  • Watch it: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E8gmARGvPlI

3. The Retro Favorite: “Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree” – Brenda Lee

For years, this song sat at #2 behind Mariah Carey, but it recently claimed the top spot!

  • The Vibe: Pure 1950s rockabilly charm. It feels like a warm, vintage holiday party.

  • Pop Culture Moment: You likely know this song from the iconic “fake party” scene in the movie Home Alone.

  • Did you know? Brenda Lee was only 13 years old when she recorded this vocal powerhouse performance.

  • Watch it: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TFsZy9t-qDc

4. The Fun Starter: “Jingle Bell Rock” – Bobby Helms

You can’t hear that opening electric guitar riff without smiling. This is another staple of the American holiday season.

  • The Vibe: Upbeat, swinging, and incredibly catchy. It’s the perfect song to play while decorating the tree or opening gifts.

  • The Legacy: From the dance scene in Mean Girls to shopping mall speakers everywhere, this song is timeless.

  • Watch it: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZnDmmiiFSUU

5. The Warm Embrace: “It’s Beginning to Look a Lot Like Christmas” – Michael Bublé

If Christmas had a voice, it would sound like Michael Bublé. His 2011 album Christmas revived the traditional “crooner” style for a new generation.

6. The New Classic: “Santa Tell Me” – Ariana Grande

While most Christmas hits are decades old, Ariana Grande managed to break through with a modern favorite.

  • The Vibe: A cute, R&B-infused pop track about the hesitation of falling in love during the holidays.

  • Why it works: It captures the sound of Gen Z and Millennials while still feeling festive enough to fit in with the classics.

  • Watch it: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nlR0MkrRklg

7. The Global Party: “Feliz Navidad” – José Feliciano

Sometimes, simple is best. With its bilingual lyrics (English and Spanish) and repetitive chorus, this is a song that everyone knows how to sing.

  • The Vibe: Pure joy. It is impossible to be sad while listening to this track.

  • The Message: “I wanna wish you a Merry Christmas from the bottom of my heart”—a simple, heartfelt wish that transcends language barriers.

  • Watch it: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N8NcQzMQN_U

💡 Bonus Tip: Creating Viral Holiday Content?

Are you planning to use these songs for your next TikTok, Reel, or YouTube Short? Music sets the mood, but the right audio details seal the deal.

To make your content truly stand out this season, you need more than just a backing track. Check out our guide on the Top 10 Sound Effects for Viral Christmas Videos to give your videos that extra festive sparkle (think sleigh bells, Santa’s laugh, and magical chimes!).

🎧 How to Build the Perfect Holiday Playlist

To keep the energy flowing at your holiday gathering, try following this flow:

  1. Start High: Kick things off with All I Want for Christmas Is You or Jingle Bell Rock to get people excited.

  2. Mellow Out: Transition into the dinner hour with Michael Bublé or White Christmas (Bing Crosby).

  3. End Strong: Finish the night with sing-along anthems like Feliz Navidad or We Wish You a Merry Christmas.

Music is the quickest way to get into the holiday spirit. Whether you are spending the holidays with family, friends, or enjoying some peaceful time alone, let these timeless melodies fill your home with warmth.

Wishing you a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year! 🎄✨