Undeniably, Christmas songs are the biggest indicator that the holiday season is officially upon us.
In the Philippines, it’s almost impossible to not hear holiday classics everywhere as early as September 1st. Whether it’s on the car radio and your neighbor’s karaoke machine, or across department stores and in your favorite restaurants, these songs effortlessly help us embrace the Christmas spirit as we count down the days ’til December 25th.
Despite how many years or even centuries it’s been since some of these Christmas classics were first written, their timeless quality never falters, especially thanks to our favorite artists continuing to reimagine them time and time again.
Last year, Billboard Philippines put together a list of 12 holiday songs to help you countdown to Christmas. This time, we’re helping you spread some joy and cheer with these classic covers of 12 Christmas favorites that will help you get ready to celebrate the holidays this 2024. Check them out below!
Michael Bublé – “It’s Beginning To Look A Lot Like Christmas”
Kicking off this list is an appropriately titled cover from traditional pop icon Michael Bublé. Originally written in 1951 by flutist, conductor, and composer Meredith Wilson, Bublé reinvents this track as his own, serving as the perfect way to capture the growing wonder and excitement as the holiday season slowly comes in full swing.
Laufey – “Santa Baby”
Jazz up your Christmas this 2024 with this cover of “Santa Baby” by jazz-pop icon Laufey. This lighthearted, chipper tune about putting together an extravagant Christmas wishlist was originally released in 1953 and performed by singer-actress Eartha Kitt alongside composer Henri René and his orchestra.
Regine Velasquez – “O Holy Night”
In more ways than one, Christmas often has such profound effects on people, and what better way to encapsulate that than with the powerful vocals of Asia’s Songbird herself? Backed by a piano and a string section, Regine Velasquez-Alcasid reimagines this perennial Christmas carol about the birth of Jesus Christ, with her distinct, timeless voice taking center stage and breathing new life into this serene holiday favorite.
Phoebe Bridgers – “Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas”
Originally written in 1943 by Hugh Martin and Ralph Blane for the 1944 musical film Meet Me in St. Louis, indie rock singer-songwriter Phoebe Bridgers delivers a heartfelt take on this hope-filled holiday track. Whereas the likes of Frank Sinatra’s popular version feels like cozying up by a fire, Bridgers’ serene take on this Christmas classic feels more like much-needed warm hug – a reassurance of better days ahead.
Urbandub – “Last Christmas”
Heartache is not a feeling one would often associate with an event like Christmas but this 1984 hit from pop duo Wham! sure has proven that possible since its release.
Filipino rock veterans Urbandub are no strangers to having somber and poignant songs of their own. With just a little bit of extra melancholy and a lot more electric guitars thrown in, it’s no surprise that their spin on this undeniable Christmas favorite doesn’t feel out of place in their discography.
Mariah Carey – “Santa Claus Is Comin’ To Town”
We couldn’t have a Christmas songs list without, arguably, the Queen of Christmas Songs herself. Released in 1994, pop icon Mariah Carey puts her own spin on this jolly 1934 hit written by J. Fred Coots and Haven Gillespie. Now, 90 years later, it still continues to leave us feeling the holiday spirit with Carey’s take making it even more timeless than it already is.
Justin Bieber – “Silent Night”
While many know him for his upbeat pop anthems, Justin Bieber is no stranger to going more serene with his musical offerings. Take his heartfelt rendition of this universally popular Christmas carol. Originally composed in 1818 and first recorded in 1905, “Silent Night” is officially recognized as the most recorded Christmas song ever, with Bieber’s piano-driven, soulful take undeniably remaining a favorite of countless in recent history.
Jay R – “Christmas Song”
Otherwise known as “Chestnuts Roasting on an Open Fire,” “The Christmas Song” was first recorded by the Nat King Cole Trio in 1946, with its 1961 version with a full orchestra going on to cement its status as an ultimate Christmas hit. Filipino R&B icon Jay R brings his smooth and soaring voice to the timeless classic, backed by slow drumming and soulful piano melodies to get you into the proper holiday mood.
aespa – “Jingle Bell Rock”
Ever since their debut, K-pop girl group aespa have never shied away from becoming experimental with their music. They are widely known for always bringing a touch of almost unpredictable creative flair into each release they put out. Their cover of “Jingle Bell Rock” is no different, showcasing a more synth- and bass-driven take on the Bobby Helms hit from 1957, complete with an all-new rap verse to spice things up.
Darren Espanto – “O Little Town Of Bethlehem”
Throughout the first ten years of his musical career, Darren Espanto and his voice have captured (and continue to capture) the hearts of countless listeners far and wide. Even when one goes back to the beginnings of his career, there was always certain ethereal charm to it. Which is why his take on this long-standing Christmas carol unsurprisingly feels like a match made in heaven.
My Chemical Romance – “All I Want For Christmas Is You”
My Chemical Romance might be one of the last bands you’d associate Christmas with. If so, their headbang-inducing rendition of this festive Mariah Carey hit from 1994 might just change your mind.
From its hard-hitting yet melodic guitar riffs to frontman Gerard Way’s unmistakable signature vocals, the alternative rock veterans have taken one of the biggest Christmas songs in modern history and elevated it to new, emo heights for you to mosh (or open presents) to.
BINI – “Joy To The World”
Many came to know the wonders and joys of P-pop thanks to them this year, so it’s only fitting that we cap this list off with our Nation’s Girl Group. Providing a fresh spin on this cheerful Christmas classic from 1719, BINI are sure to bring joy to anyone’s world with this fun little cover, complete with modern upbeat instrumentals, powerful vocals, and even a tasteful rap verse thrown in for good measure.