Have a holiday party coming up and need to choose some songs to play? Want to listen to something new while hanging out with friends and family? Have they banned you from playing Mariah Carey‘s “All I want for Christmas” AGAIN? Well, we’re here to help add some spice to your holiday playlist. Here are 12 songs that you absolutely need on your holiday playlist.
1. Sleigh Ride by TLC
Although originally performed by The Ronettes, TLC’s rendition of “Sleigh Ride” is a fan favorite for its hip-hop beats, catchy lyrics, and flavorful video. We also live for Lefteye’s cute rap and adlibs. Not to mention, this is one of the best songs to have a karaoke battle to.
2. “Feliz Navidad” by Jose Feliciano
This timeless 70’s classic is sure to make the room feel inviting and full of comfort. “Feliz Navidad” is the perfect song to have on your playlist for when you want to have a glass of wine while dancing around the room. This song also makes for the perfect party song due to its upbeat nature and repetitive but catchy lyrics.
3. “Christmas In Hollis” by Run-DMC
The underrated holiday classic, Run-DMC’s “Christmas In Hollis” is a holiday playlist must-have! This song is perfect for when you want to introduce a fun and vibrant energy to the atmosphere. If you were to throw an office holiday party, I guarantee everyone would immediately get hype and rap along.
4. “Run Rudolph Run” by Chuck Berry
This thrilling holiday classic is a sure way to get your party started! Within the first second of the song, you and your guests will be breaking out into a dance frenzy. This song is also a great pick-me-up when you’re out doing some holiday shopping.
5. “Last Christmas” by Ariana Grande
While this song is a bit sad, Ariana Grande’s rendition has an upbeat nature about it that will have you and your guests wanting to dance instead of cry in a corner. In fact, you and your guests could pull off a slightly choreographed (or impromptu) TikTok dance to the song to make the party even more entertaining.
6. “8 Days of Christmas” by Destiny’s Child
What would your playlist be without the ultimate holiday classic that is Destiny Child’s “8 Days of Christmas”? Tasteless! That’s what it would be. This song is perfect for when you’re having a drink, relaxing, and unboxing gifts with your guests.
7. “This Christmas” by Christina Aguilera
Christina Aguilera’s rendition of “This Christmas” is a favorite for those who like to be a little extra. This song is perfect for karaoke at the office holiday party. We can almost guarantee there will be at least one person dramatically singing Aguilera’s adlibs and runs on top of the dessert table.
8. “Ain’t a Lonely Christmas Song” by Tayla Parx
Talented actress and singer-songwriter, Tayla Parx takes holiday joy to another level with her song “Ain’t a Lonely Christmas Song”. The soft techno beats and Parx’s soothing voice makes this song perfect for a chill holiday party or friendly get-together. If this isn’t on your playlist, you are missing out!
9. “One More Sleep” by Leona Lewis
The talented songstress Leona Lewis makes the holidays feel like love, joy, and paradise with her song “One More Sleep”. This upbeat tune will make you want to hang around friends and loved ones all day to spread the holiday joy!
10. “I’m Black and I’m Proud” by James Brown
Although not the average holiday song, James Brown’s “I’m Black and I’m Proud” is considered one of the most provocative songs in music history. Nonetheless, it is a powerful song for the holidays. This song is a must-have on your playlist especially if you are celebrating Kwanzaa.
11. “Presents” by Bryson Tiller featuring Kiana Ledé
Bryson Tiller’s “A Different Christmas” is filled with holiday bops! From “Presents” to “Lonely Christmas”, you’ll never get tired of listening to this album. Fan favorite, “Presents” featuring Kiana Ledé, is an upbeat love ballad that is sure to create feelings of happiness with those you’re surrounded by.
12. “Chimney” by Sebastian Mikael
Sebastian Mikael’s “Chimney” takes a different route to bringing in the holidays with “Chimney”. This sultry ballad is perfect for when you’re curled up with you boo or when you’re cooking dinner with friends and family. This song is a must-have for your playlist for those days when you want to relax or reminisce.
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