It’s hard to believe Christmas is just over two weeks away. Whether you’re the type to pull out the holiday decorations as soon as the trick-or-treaters go to bed or if you prefer to finish your shopping on Christmas Eve, there’s always time to tune in to some classic holiday jams.

Now, I know what you may be thinking - the neverending loop of overplayed Christmas songs you hear on the radio or at the mall can get kind of annoying. That’s why this year I wanted to change it up a bit and give you a list of holiday songs you might not have heard of.

While it may be hard to compete with tried and true classics, like Mariah Carey’s “All I Want For Christmas,” which seems to start its slow creep up the charts as soon as the summer ends, the last decade has brought some incredible new holiday jams that feel like they’ve always been with us. There’s no better way to describe them than the new holiday classics.

Let’s take a look at some of the modern holiday jams that have what it takes to sit with the golden oldies!

“Underneath The Tree” by Kelly Clarkson

An instant classic, this track has everything you could ever ask of a Christmas song. Oh-so catchy melodies, perfectly cozy lyrics and festive sleigh bells are all characteristic of traditional holiday music, and yet “Underneath The Tree” still feels fresh and new. Clarkson’s vocals are as strong as ever here, not to mention her epic writing skills.

“Mittens” by Carly Rae Jepsen

Seriously underrated, this next holiday song is delicate yet passionate. The focus this time of year often gets put on being overly joyous and festive, but this season can be lonely and depressing for many. Warm and fuzzy like a hug, or indeed a good pair of mittens, this song offers comfort and reassurance that you’re not alone in your feels. Acoustic guitar and other light instrumentals elevate the beauty of this song even more.

“Last Xmas” by Allie X (Cover)

A new take on an old classic, Allie X’s cover of Wham!’s ‘Last Christmas’ is equally as heartbreaking and emotional as the original with modern pop finishings. Electronic-pop vibes make this song more danceable (albeit with tears in your eyes) and Allie X’s pouty yet powerful vocals deliver the heartwrenching tale with a touch more sass, #You’llNeverFoolMeAgain.

“Christmas Tree Farm” by Taylor Swift

Another timeless song to add to your holiday rotation is one by none other than Time Magazine’s Person of the Year, Taylor Swift. Perpetually stuck in my head ever since its release in 2019, this track perfectly sets the scene for a cozy little Christmas. Prepare to be transported to a snowy dream world and reminisce about your childhood holiday memories. 

“Make It Through December” by Phoebe Bridgers (Cover)

There’s no way I could create this playlist without mentioning this cover by Phoebe Bridgers. Taking Merle Haggard’s country holiday song and putting her signature melancholic, indie folk twist on it, Bridgers brings more of our attention to the lyrics. Tackling loneliness and unemployment while still feeling hopeful overall, this track is an important reminder of the realities that many families face this time of year.

“Take Me Home For Christmas” by Dan + Shay

No matter your stance on country music this song by Dan + Shay is hard to disagree with. Looking to live in an adorable holiday rom-com? I think we’ve found it. With southern charm, heartwarming lyrics and vocal runs for days,  this is the perfect song to soundtrack all of your favourite winter activities. Did I mention they have four more original Christmas songs?

Find even more must-listen tracks for the holidays in the full playlist!