It doesn’t take a genius to realize that 100 different versions of Rudolph or Frosty will drive anyone crazy. Part of the fun for our Music Designers is to introduce you and your customers to lesser known Christmas gems throughout our Christmas options in every genre. These Top 10 Holiday Discoveries are guaranteed to eliminate Jingle Bell burnout!
“Snow Globe” by Matt Wertz (Pop/Rock)
With an infectious sound and rhythm, this uplifting song brings offers a light, airy and fun entry to any playlist, reminiscent of “Deck the Halls” and Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree.”
“Christmas In Harlem” by Kanye West (Hip-Hop)
There are very few retail appropriate Hip Hop Christmas songs out there, other than Run DMC’s “Christmas in Hollis” and Busta Rhyme’s “Grinch 2000.” Kanye delivers a laid-back track with an oh-so-cool retro vibe that will add a little swagger to your holiday playlist.
“Christmas All Over Again” by Tom Petty (Rock)
Just like any Tom Petty hit, this song is just so versatile, catchy and straight to the point that it’s hard to keep from singing along. There isn’t a huge selection of classic rock holiday music out there, so this makes for a nice change between more orchestral and pop-oriented songs that we often hear during the season.
“Christmas Time” by Phil Wickham (Inspirational)
This unique track combines modern instrumentation with traditional flourishes such as jingle bells and glockenspiel to create an authentic feel of a wonderfully wintry wonderland.
“Christmas at the Zoo” by The Flaming Lips (Alternative)
This track is the complete opposite of a holiday standard, but it’s still very festive in its own way and a great alternative selection for businesses and brands who want something a little quirky.
“Bringing In a Brand New Year” by B.B. King (Blues)
As much as the holiday season is about Christmas and family gatherings, it is also about the anticipation of a New Year and new beginnings. We love the up, fun and happy message of this song by B.B. King and we use it often for restaurants and retail outlets who are looking for a holiday sound that isn’t nostalgic.
“Vive Le Vent” by Dalida (Vintage/International)
Because everything sounds better in French! This rare 1960 gem by Italo-French singer and actress Dalida offers up a refreshing, joyous interpretation of the mundane (and often cloying) “Jingle Bells.”
“Toy Jackpot” by Blackalicious (Hip-Hop)
This upbeat track perfectly conveys the rush of a kid jumping up and down waiting to tear through the gifts under the tree. Avoiding any holiday clichés, it also stands alone as memorable, non-explicit Hip-Hop perfect for youth-oriented programming.
“Holiday Face” by Dent May (Pop)
A rising independent star and current favorite, Dent May released this synthy indie pop gem in 2010 and it works great with businesses and brands looking for an upbeat and diverse holiday sound.
“All My Bells are Ringing” by Lenka (Pop)
Fun, catchy, and perfect for retail environments, and it’s a true original – how refreshing!
– Submitted by Janica Chang, Amy Frishkey, Deidre Gott, Carly Grimm, Justin Main, Trevor Pronga and Janice Williams, Music Design