AMFers! As Christmas approaches, the streets twinkle with fairy lights and exciting builds for the big day, there’s no denying the power of a well-crafted Christmas playlist to set the mood.
The AMF team would like to think we have pretty good music taste, and we understand the magic that a well-curated set of songs can bring to gatherings, whether it’s a cozy evening in with family, or a lively holiday party.
So, get yourself comfy, grab a brew (or a prosecco, it’s 5pm somewhere), and let’s dive into how you can create a Christmas playlist that’s naughty, nice, and everything in between!
Why Create a Christmas Playlist?
A well-curated Christmas playlist isn’t just background noise – it helps to build the atmosphere of your holiday gatherings. Not to mention, it can help to alleviate the stresses of those last-minute shopping trips!
As we all know, music can make the difference between a decent party, and an unforgettable one. Granted, once you’ve had a few bevs you might not care what music’s playing. But please, think of the kids before you ask Alexa to play Olly Murs’ top hits after Christmas dinner.
Top Tips for Crafting the Ultimate Christmas Playlist
Alright, let’s get down to the nitty-gritty of creating that perfect Christmas playlist.
Balancing Traditional and Modern Tunes
First things first, you’ve got to strike that perfect balance between the classics and the latest hits. Sure, your Nan might love to hear the full “Christmas with Cliff” tracklist, but the nieces and nephews are all about that new Jack Harlow song and would like to hear something from this decade. The best Christmas playlists will always have a nice mix of traditional and more contemporary tracks to cater to all tastes.
Including a Variety of Genres
Diversity is the spice of life, and your playlist should be no exception. When building out your playlist, it’s important to cover a broad range of genres and feature a mix of artists. Christmas music spans a wide spectrum, from classic crooners to indie and Britpop. Mixing it up ensures that there’s something for everyone.
Don’t stick strictly to the tried-and-true; throw in a few unexpected tracks or unique interpretations. A well-rounded selection ensures that your playlist remains fresh, and enjoyable throughout the Christmas period.
Add Personal Favorites!
Christmas is all about fun with family and friends, reminiscing on memories, and making new ones. With this in mind, throw in some songs with meaning to you and your loved ones.
Whether it’s a track that reminds you of a cherished childhood moment, a song that’s become a family tradition, or a recent discovery that’s become a favourite, these personal touches add an extra layer of character to your playlist. Sharing these songs with loved ones can spark conversations, a few terrible dance moves, and a lot of laughs.
AMF’s Top Christmas Songs for 2023
Love them or hate them, if you’re looking for inspiration for your Christmas playlist, here are some of our top Christmas songs:
Popular Christmas Songs
- Fairytale of New York – The Pogues ft. Kirsty MacColl
- Christmas Time (Don’t Let the Bells End) – The Darkness
- Do They Know It’s Christmas? – Band Aid (1984)
- Last Christmas – Wham!
- All I Want for Christmas Is You – Mariah Carey
- Wonderful Christmastime – Paul McCartney
- Step Into Christmas – Elton John
- Lonely This Christmas – Mud
- It’s Beginning to Look a Lot Like Christmas – Michael Bublé
- Sleigh Ride – The Ronettes
- A Spaceman Came Travelling – Chris de Burgh
Modern Christmas Songs
- Christmas Lights – Coldplay
- Santa Tell Me – Ariana Grande
- Underneath the Tree – Kelly Clarkson
- Merry Christmas – Ed Sheeran, Elton John
- Mistletoe – Justin Bieber
- Santa’s Coming For Us – Sia
Classic Christmas Tunes
- White Christmas – Bing Crosby
- Santa Claus Is Coming to Town – Bruce Springsteen
- It’s the Most Wonderful Time of the Year – Andy Williams
- Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree – Brenda Lee
- Frosty the Snowman – Gene Autry
- Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer – Burl Ives
- Silver Bells – Bing Crosby & Carol Richards
- The Christmas Song (Chestnuts Roasting on an Open Fire) – Nat King Cole
- Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas – Judy Garland
- Winter Wonderland – Dean Martin
- Little Drummer Boy – The Harry Simeone Chorale
- Blue Christmas – Elvis Presley
- Let It Snow! x3 – Frank Sinatra
- Frosty The Snowman – Bing Crosby
Fun Christmassy Songs, Covers & Interpretations
- Killing In The Name – Rage Against The Machine
- Merry Xmas Everybody – Oasis
- Winter Song – Sam Fender
- Wintering – The 1975
- You’re A Mean One, Mr Grinch – Tyler, The Creator
- All You’re Dreaming Of – Liam Gallagher
- Last Christmas – Remi Wolf
- Christmas In Hollis – Run-D.M.C
Spotlight on Yorkshire’s Musical Talents
As Yorkshire’s fastest-growing music festival, we’d like to place the spotlight on some local talent that we believe deserves a spot on your Christmas playlist to help mix things up a bit! Check their songs out below and get them saved.
Recommended Artists and Tracks
Reverend & The Makers – Heavyweight Champion of the World
Apollo Junction – Light Up The Sky
Little Man Tate – Sexy In Latin
The Denabys – Sunshine
The Rosadocs – Run Away Instead
The Outcharms – (Who’s Making You) Smile?
Sam Scherdel – Fairytale Of New York – Live
Harri Larkin – Get The Girl Away
CRUZ – Disco Colour Beams
The 48Ks – One of These Days
Matilda Shakes – Fever Dream
Bang Bang Romeo – Shame On You
Have a Great Christmas!
The AMF team would like to wish everyone a Merry Christmas, we hope you have a great day. Don’t worry – there’ll be one more announcement before the year is up…
Andy is a Co-Founder of Askern Music Festival. Experienced in the events industry, there’s no one better for organising huge bands and artists to play in AMF – Doncaster’s biggest party!
