Rock Around the Christmas Tree: The Best Christmas Song Covers
Ho ho ho, guys! It's that time of the year again when we dust off our Santa hats, put up the mistletoe, and start humming our favorite Christmas tunes. But why stick to the originals when there are so many amazing Christmas song covers out there that put a fresh spin on the classics? Let's dive into some of the best ones that'll have you feeling festive in no time! Guys, explore more in Guides And Explainers and christmas song covers.
Wham! - Last Christmas (George Michael's Solo Version)
Kicking off our list is none other than the king of Christmas pop himself, George Michael. While Last Christmas was originally released by his band Wham!, it's his solo version that truly makes the holidays feel fa-la-la-fabulous. George's soulful voice and the song's jazz-infused arrangement give this classic a whole new lease on life. It's like the musical equivalent of a cozy Christmas sweater – warm, comforting, and oh-so-stylish.
Elvis Presley - Blue Christmas (Live Version)
The King of Rock 'n' Roll, Elvis Presley, might not have been known for his Christmas cheer, but his live version of Blue Christmas is enough to make even the Grinch feel festive. Recorded during his 1968 Comeback Special, this performance is pure magic. Elvis's smooth vocals, coupled with his signature swagger, transform this melancholic tune into a sultry, smoldering holiday hit. It's like a glass of eggnog spiked with a little something extra – you know it's naughty, but you can't help but love it.
The Pogues feat. Kirsty MacColl - Fairytale of New York (Live Version)
Now, let's get a little rowdy with one of the most iconic Christmas song covers of all time – Fairytale of New York by The Pogues and Kirsty MacColl. This live version, recorded at the BBC Radio Theatre in 2005, is a perfect blend of punk rock attitude and Christmas cheer. With its raw, emotional lyrics and the duet between Shane MacGowan and Kirsty MacColl, it's a heartwarming tale of love, loss, and the magic of Christmas. It's like a Christmas pudding filled with booze and bad behavior – it might not be pretty, but it sure is delicious.
The Beach Boys - Little Saint Nick (From A Christmas Album)
Who said Christmas songs had to be slow and sentimental? The Beach Boys' Little Saint Nick is a surf-rock anthem that'll have you shredding imaginary guitar solos and carving up the snow like a wave. This track, from their 1964 album A Christmas Album, is a quintessential example of the band's signature harmonies and catchy melodies, all wrapped up in a festive package. It's like catching a wave on a crisp winter's day – exhilarating, fun, and guaranteed to put a smile on your face.
Mariah Carey - All I Want for Christmas Is You (Live Version)
We couldn't have a list of the best Christmas song covers without including the queen of Christmas herself, Mariah Carey. While her original version of All I Want for Christmas Is You is already a timeless classic, her live performances of the song are nothing short of magical. Mariah's powerful vocals, coupled with her unparalleled showmanship, make this track a must-listen during the holidays. It's like a Christmas gift that keeps on giving – you can't help but feel like a kid on Christmas morning every time you hear it.
Bob Dylan - Christmas Blues (From Christmas in the Heart)
Bob Dylan might not be the first artist that comes to mind when you think of Christmas music, but his 2009 album Christmas in the Heart is a hidden gem that's well worth a listen. Christmas Blues is a standout track from the album, featuring Dylan's signature gravelly vocals and a laid-back, bluesy arrangement. It's a Christmas song for the misfits and the rebels, the ones who prefer a shot of whiskey to a cup of hot cocoa. It's like a Christmas party at the local dive bar – gritty, authentic, and full of surprises.
Fleetwood Mac - Christmastime (From Mirage)
Fleetwood Mac's Christmastime might not be the most well-known Christmas song, but it's certainly one of the most enchanting. This track, from their 1982 album Mirage, features Lindsey Buckingham's signature guitar work and Stevie Nicks' ethereal vocals, creating a dreamy, otherworldly atmosphere. It's like a Christmas song that's been spun from stardust and moonlight – it might not be traditional, but it's undeniably magical.
The Killers - Christmas in L.A. (From Don't Shoot Me Santa)
The Killers' Christmas in L.A. is a modern Christmas classic that'll have you feeling like you're in a cheesy, feel-good holiday movie. With its catchy, upbeat melody and Brando's signature falsetto, it's a song that's impossible not to sing along to. It's like a Christmas song that's been written by a bunch of kids who snuck into the studio after hours – it's fun, it's cheeky, and it's guaranteed to put you in a festive mood.
The Ramones - Merry Christmas (I Don't Want to Fight Tonight) (From Acid Eaters)
The Ramones might be known for their punk rock anthems, but their Christmas song Merry Christmas (I Don't Want to Fight Tonight) is a surprisingly sweet and sentimental track. With its catchy melody and Joey Ramone's heartfelt vocals, it's a Christmas song that's perfect for the misfits and the rebels. It's like a Christmas carol that's been written by a bunch of kids who just want to stay home, eat cookies, and watch TV – it's simple, it's honest, and it's full of holiday cheer.
Bing Crosby & David Bowie - The Little Drummer Boy/Peace on Earth (From Bing Crosby's Merrie Olde Christmas)
Last but certainly not least, we have the legendary duet between Bing Crosby and David Bowie. Recorded in 1977, this track features Bowie's haunting vocals and Crosby's smooth croon, creating a truly unique and unforgettable Christmas song. It's a musical meeting of the minds that's as magical as it is unexpected. It's like a Christmas carol that's been sung by angels and aliens alike – it's otherworldly, it's enchanting, and it's guaranteed to give you goosebumps.
There you have it, folks – our list of the best Christmas song covers that are guaranteed to make your holidays a little bit brighter. So crank up the tunes, pour yourself a glass of eggnog (or something stronger, if that's your thing), and get ready to rock around the Christmas tree like there's no tomorrow. Happy holidays, and remember – Santa's watching, so be good... or at least try to be!