Well, it's official. Thanksgiving is over, and we're barreling into the Christmas season. Of course, for all of us college students, a couple weeks of classes and finals stand between us and that glorious time called Christmas break. That being said, we don't have to wait to start getting into the Christmas spirit, and what better way than listening to Christmas music? Whether you're buried in homework, or curling up with a cup of hot cocoa and a good book, here are fifteen Christmas songs you do not want to miss this season:
"The Secret of Giving"--Reba McEntire
I grew up on Reba McEntire's Christmas album. She does a fantastic job with the classics, but my favorite of her songs is "The Secret of Giving." It's sweet, unique, and a little different from the usual Christmas songs we hear all season.
"Winter Wonderland"--Michael Buble
If you don't know who Michael Buble is--or have never heard his Christmas album--you need to stop whatever you're doing and go listen to it right now. Seriously, his old-school crooner voice brings to mind a modern Frank Sinatra, and well, if this rendition of "Winter Wonderland" does not make you want to drink hot chocalate and curl up by a fire after building a snow man, nothing will.
"All My Christmases"--Jillian Edwards
Edwards' folksy style is a fun diversion from the more traditional sound of Christmas pop and country. "All My Christmases" is perfection. It's the type of Christmas music that captures the relaxing and cozy atmosphere that we all love about Christmas.
"Mistletoe"--Colbie Caillat
I'm a huge fan of Colbie Caillat's music in general, and her playful take on Christmas in "Mistletoe" is sure to make you one too.
"Breath of Heaven (Mary's Song)"--Amy Grant
This is one of the most beautiful Christmas songs I've ever heard. It brings us back to the real meaning behind Christmas and captures the heart of a young girl undergoing an incredible miracle. Seriously, it made me tear up the first time I heard it.
"White Christmas"--Bing Crosby
No list of Christmas songs would be complete without Crosby's rendition of "White Christmas". It's a holiday classic--just like the movie it comes from.
"Sleigh Ride"--Clay Aiken
Again, an updated take on a Christmas classic. It's a beautiful song for a snowy drive.
" Baby, It's Cold Outside"--Ella Fitzgerald & Louis Jordan
This might be my all-time favorite holiday song. It's not specifically about Christmas but more about winter in general. There are plenty of terrific versions out there, but Fitzgerald's rendition is one of my favorites.
"I'll Be Home for Christmas"--Josh Groban
Whether you're heading home for the holidays yourself or missing the people you love who you cannot be with this Christmas, this classic song will give you all the feels.
"All I Want for Christmas Is You"--Idina Menzel
The Frozen and Wicked star with a powerhouse voice brings the perfect rhythm to this pop-style Christmas favorite. Just try to stop yourself from singing along, I dare you.
"Let It Snow, Let It Snow, Let It Snow"--Lady Antebellum
Get all cozy and wait for the snow to start falling...or if you're like me, living some place where snow would be a Christmas miracle, listen anyway...after all, a girl can dream of a white Christmas, right?
"A Holly Jolly Christmas"--Burl Ives
I guarantee you have heard this one before, but it's such a perfect Christmas song that it had to go on the list. You can't listen to this song without ending up in a merry mood.
"Go Tell It On The Mountain"--Rebecca Roubion
Robin's slower, folksy take on this classic song should definitely be on your holiday playlist this year. It's a beautiful song that also shares the true story of Christmas in between its catchy choruses.
So, what are you waiting for? Go turn on that Christmas music. Happy Listening!