It's that time of year again, and holiday music is upon us. The melodies flow out of speakers on the streets, and play on repeat at coffee shops and department stores alike. Careening around corners and finding their place stuck within your head all the way until January is almost over, there is no escape. Due to the fact that I work in an establishment that exclusively started playing holiday music on November 30th, I've come up with a ranking of the top five all time best versions of classical holiday songs -- along with my favorite lyric from each.
5. "This is the Time" - Michael Bolton and Wynonna Judd
Best Line: "This world will find its way somehow/I've got all that I need right here, right now"
Though not necessarily considered by all a holiday song, or a classic at that, this duet depicts what the holiday season is actually about: love. The gradual increase of tempo and intensity make this a great karaoke song to perform while decorating your house for the holidays.
4. "Santa Claus is Coming to Town" - Bruce Springsteen
Best Line: "You better be good for goodness sake (better be good for goodness sake)"
Who knew that it would be Bruce Springsteen to top out the charts at number nine? This version of a classic makes the list due to the big brass instruments in the chorus and the fact that you can't help but dance when this tune is played. Plus all the laughing throughout this song just screams jolly holiday cheer!
3. "Carol of the Bells" - Trans-Siberian Orchestra
Best Line: So there aren't any words in this…but the intensity helps it make the cut.
Imagine running through the holiday sales to this song, searching for the best present out there for that special someone. The lack of lyrics to a well known song makes this version of "Carol of the Bells" cinematic in a way that highlights the subtle drama of the holiday season. Even without lyrics, all listeners know the song by heart -- and that's what makes it a classic.
2. "All I Want for Christmas" - Mariah Carey
Best Line: "I don't care about the presents underneath the Christmas tree/I just want you for my own"
It wouldn't be a holiday song list without Mariah Carey's "All I Want for Christmas." Though sometimes overplayed, play this song and every person in the room will be forced to sing along. Other artists have tried to cover this hit, but every remake will pale in comparison to Carey's. The pop nature of this song makes it a toe tapper in comparison to some slower holiday hits.
1. "Baby it's Cold Outside" - Margaret Whiting and Johnny Mercer
Best Line: "Think of my lifelong sorrow/If you caught pneumonia and died"
Although there's controversy over this song, it takes the cake in my book for top holiday song. The Whiting and Mercer version encapsulates the traditional background of the holiday season, as well as the joy and playful nature of sharing it with someone you love. Listening to this song with a cup of hot chocolate while watching the snow fall would make for the loveliest of winter days.
