80s Christmas Songs: Nostalgic Holiday Hits

The 1980s were a vibrant decade full of memorable music, including a unique collection of Christmas songs that continue to bring joy to listeners. These festive tracks are beloved for their catchy melodies and nostalgic charm, capturing the spirit of the season in a way that feels timeless.

A festive living room with a glowing fireplace, a decorated Christmas tree, and a record player playing classic 80s holiday tunes

Why do 80s Christmas songs still hold a special place in our hearts during the holiday season? The answer lies in the way these songs blend holiday cheer with the distinct sounds of the decade, offering a musical journey that’s both fun and heartfelt. Exploring the top tracks from this era highlights the enduring appeal and influence of these classic holiday tunes.

1. Wham! – Last Christmas

“Last Christmas” by Wham! is a classic holiday song that still resonates with many people. Released in 1984, this song is known for its catchy melody and emotional lyrics that capture the bittersweet nature of love during the festive season.

  • Song Name: Last Christmas
  • Album: Music from the Edge of Heaven
  • Release Date: December 3, 1984

Why we included this song on the list

“Last Christmas” remains a staple in Christmas playlists around the world, showcasing Wham!’s ability to blend pop melodies with heartfelt storytelling. Its enduring popularity is evident as it continues to chart decades after its original release, making it a must-have on any list of 80s Christmas songs.

Interesting or fun facts about the song

“Last Christmas” didn’t initially reach the number one spot in the UK charts, as it was kept off by Band Aid’s “Do They Know It’s Christmas?” Nevertheless, it has since become one of the most recognized Christmas tunes. The song finally entered the UK top ten in 2020, and its official music video can be enjoyed on YouTube.

2. Band Aid – Do They Know It’s Christmas?

  • Song Name: Do They Know It’s Christmas?
  • Album: Do They Know It’s Christmas?
  • Release Date: December 3, 1984

Why we included this song on the list

“Do They Know It’s Christmas?” by Band Aid is a significant song from the 80s that captured the attention of the world. It was created to raise funds for the Ethiopian famine crisis. Its social impact and timeless message about caring for those in need during the festive season make it a memorable tune.

Interesting or fun facts about the song

The song was co-written by Bob Geldof and Midge Ure. It featured an impressive lineup of artists, including members of U2, Duran Duran, and Wham!. The track was recorded in just one day and became a major success, raising millions for charity. The project laid the groundwork for future collective musical efforts like Live Aid. More detailed information can be found on its Wikipedia page.

3. Run-D.M.C. – Christmas in Hollis

“Christmas in Hollis” by Run-D.M.C. is a standout holiday hip-hop track from the 1980s. This song manages to bring the festive spirit to life with a fresh, urban twist. Its catchy beats and fun lyrics make it a memorable addition to any Christmas playlist.

  • Song Name: Christmas in Hollis
  • Album: A Very Special Christmas
  • Release Date: 1987

Why we included this song on the list

Run-D.M.C. broke new ground by blending holiday cheer with hip-hop, a genre not typically associated with Christmas songs. This innovative approach made “Christmas in Hollis” a refreshing take on a holiday classic. It stands out for its unique rhythm and relatable story-telling style.

Interesting or fun facts about the song

The song was featured in several movies and TV shows, like Die Hard, adding to its widespread recognition. Its music video includes scenes of New York during Christmastime, capturing both the festive atmosphere and the lively energy of Hollis, Queens. Run-D.M.C.’s performance in the 1987 CBS TV special “A Very Special Christmas” helped cement its place in holiday music history.

4. Paul McCartney – Wonderful Christmastime

  • Song name: Wonderful Christmastime
  • Album: McCartney II (Recorded during sessions, non-album single)
  • Release date: November 1979

Released in November 1979, “Wonderful Christmastime” is a delightful holiday song crafted by Paul McCartney during the sessions for his album McCartney II. This catchy tune is known for its upbeat melody and festive spirit.

Why we included this song on the list

Paul McCartney’s “Wonderful Christmastime” is regarded as one of the best 80s Christmas songs, capturing the joyful atmosphere of the holiday season. Its simple, cheerful theme and memorable lyrics resonate with listeners, making it a holiday favorite year after year.

Interesting or fun facts about the song

  • The song was McCartney’s first solo single since 1971.
  • It was released after Wings’ final album, marking a significant shift in McCartney’s music career.
  • “Wonderful Christmastime” regularly charts in the top 10 during the holiday season, proving its lasting appeal.

For more about this song, visit the Wikipedia page on Wonderful Christmastime.

5. Elton John – Step Into Christmas

  • Song Name: Step Into Christmas
  • Album: Stand-alone single
  • Release Date: November 1973

“Step Into Christmas” by Elton John is a classic holiday tune that has remained popular through the decades. Released in 1973, this upbeat song is full of festive spirit and joy. With its catchy melody and lively chorus, it gets people in the mood for holiday celebrations.

Why we included this song on the list

This song makes the list of top 80s Christmas songs due to its continued popularity and timeless appeal. Although it was released in the early 70s, “Step Into Christmas” found a strong audience in the 1980s. Its bright, cheerful sound and fun lyrics encapsulate the energy of the season.

Interesting or fun facts about the song

“Step Into Christmas” was co-written with Elton John’s longtime collaborator, Bernie Taupin. The song achieved great success, reaching #1 on the Billboard Christmas Singles chart. The lyric video and the official singalong video are popular on YouTube. The song came with a B-side titled “Ho, Ho, Ho (Who’d Be a Turkey at Christmas)” which adds another festive element to its release.

6. The Waitresses – Christmas Wrapping

“Christmas Wrapping” by The Waitresses is a well-loved holiday track that first appeared on the 1981 compilation album A Christmas Record. It later featured on their 1982 EP I Could Rule the World If I Could Only Get the Parts.

  • Song Name: Christmas Wrapping
  • Album Name: A Christmas Record
  • Release Date: 1981

Why we included this song on the list

The Waitresses managed to blend a fun narrative with catchy music. The song is notable for its spoken-word lyrics, which tell the story of avoiding holiday stress and unexpected encounters.

Interesting or fun facts about the song

The song was written and produced by Chris Butler. Patty Donahue provided the vocals. Many fans appreciate its unconventional approach to Christmas music with a new wave twist, making it stand out during the holiday season. Despite its initial lack of success, it has grown to become a festive favorite in more recent years. For more information, visit the Wikipedia page on Christmas Wrapping.

7. Cyndi Lauper – Early Christmas Morning

Cyndi Lauper’s song “Early Christmas Morning” adds a unique touch to any holiday playlist. Released in the late 1990s, this track blends pop with holiday cheer. Known for her distinctive voice, Lauper brings her vibrant style to this festive tune.

  • Song Name: Early Christmas Morning
  • Album Name: Merry Christmas…Have a Nice Life
  • Release Date: 1998

Why we included this song on the list

“Early Christmas Morning” captures the joy and warmth of the holiday season. Lauper’s energetic performance makes it a standout Christmas track. Its infectious melody and lively rhythm make it an excellent choice for anyone looking to add a festive spark to their celebrations.

Interesting or fun facts about the song

Despite being part of a well-known artist’s repertoire, “Early Christmas Morning” was initially released only in Japan. The track was co-written by Lauper and Jan Pulsford in 1996.

Over time, it has become a cherished part of her Christmas album offerings, bringing smiles to listeners around the world. Lauper’s album is full of spirited and heartfelt songs, with this track being a highlight.

8. The Pogues – Fairytale of New York

  • Song Name: Fairytale of New York
  • Album: If I Should Fall from Grace with God
  • Release Date: 1987

Fairytale of New York by The Pogues is a staple among 1980s Christmas songs. The song features the voice of Kirsty MacColl alongside Shane MacGowan. It combines a bittersweet story with a memorable melody.

Why we included this song on the list

This song stands out because it offers a unique take on Christmas music. Instead of the usual holiday cheer, it tells a more nuanced story. The lyrics depict a down-on-their-luck couple experiencing a mix of nostalgia and hope during Christmas.

Interesting or fun facts about the song

Fairytale of New York is often considered a classic holiday duet. Even though it never reached the top of the charts, it has earned a lasting reputation. It is widely regarded as one of the greatest Christmas songs, partly due to its unconventional approach. It continues to appear on many festive playlists.

9. Queen – Thank God It’s Christmas

Released in 1984, “Thank God It’s Christmas” is a festive single by the renowned British rock band Queen. Written by Brian May and Roger Taylor, this song captures the spirit of the holiday season with its mesmerizing melody and vocals by Freddie Mercury.

  • Song Name: Thank God It’s Christmas
  • Album: Non-album single
  • Release Date: November 26, 1984

Why we included this song on the list

“Thank God It’s Christmas” stands out for its emotional depth and warmth. The combination of heartfelt lyrics and a captivating sound creates a perfect Christmas atmosphere. The song spent six weeks on the UK charts during the 1984 holiday season, illustrating its impact and popularity.

Interesting or fun facts about the song

The track was not included in a studio album, making it a unique addition to Queen’s discography. It became a seasonal favorite despite not achieving a top ten position, peaking at number 21 in the UK charts. Its enduring charm lies in Mercury’s powerful voice, which adds a special touch to the holiday spirit.

10. Bruce Springsteen – Santa Claus Is Comin’ to Town

Bruce Springsteen’s take on “Santa Claus Is Comin’ to Town” is a staple of holiday music from the 1980s. Known for his energetic performances, Springsteen brings a rock vibe to this classic Christmas tune.

  • Song name: Santa Claus Is Comin’ to Town
  • Name of the album: In Harmony 2
  • Release date: 1981

Why we included this song on the list

This version of “Santa Claus Is Comin’ to Town” stands out because of Springsteen’s lively stage presence and the infectious energy he brings to the song. His performance captures the spirit and excitement of Christmas, making it a favorite during the holiday season.

Interesting or fun facts about the song

Bruce Springsteen began performing this song live in the early 1970s. It was later released as part of the album In Harmony 2 in 1981. The song became more prominent when it was featured as the B-side of a promo single in 1985. During his concerts, it’s not unusual for Springsteen to throw in this festive track, delighting audiences around the world.

Cultural Impact of 80s Christmas Songs

Christmas songs from the 1980s have left a lasting mark on modern culture. These songs have influenced holiday music today and continue to appear in film and television.

Influence on Modern Holiday Music

The 1980s brought forth iconic Christmas songs that reshaped the holiday music landscape. With artists like Wham! and Band Aid crafting tunes that mixed pop elements with holiday themes, these tracks became timeless. For instance, Wham!’s “Last Christmas” blends emotional storytelling with catchy melodies, setting a standard for future holiday hits.

These songs often showcased innovative production techniques and heartfelt lyrics, inspiring modern artists to emulate their style. As a result, current Christmas music borrows heavily from the 80s, maintaining a nostalgic connection while infusing contemporary elements.

Legacy in Film and Television

The presence of 80s Christmas songs in film and television has helped cement their cultural significance. Movies and TV shows frequently use these tracks to evoke nostalgia and enhance festive atmospheres. Films like “Love Actually” prominently feature tracks such as “Christmas Wrapping” by The Waitresses to capture the era’s essence.

Additionally, songs from this decade often appear in holiday-themed episodes and commercials, highlighting their ongoing popularity. This recurring use reinforces the past decade’s influence, blending today’s media environments with an evergreen sense of holiday cheer.

Musical Characteristics of 80s Christmas Hits

80s Christmas hits often feature signature synth sounds that define the decade’s pop and holiday music. These songs captivate listeners with smart, catchy melodies and memorable lyrics that remain popular today.

Characteristic Synth Sounds

A defining feature of 80s Christmas songs is the use of synthesizers, which added a modern and electronic touch to festive tunes. The synths in these songs provided layers of sound that created a warm and dynamic atmosphere, perfect for the holiday season. For example, “Do They Know It’s Christmas?” incorporated synths to emphasize its uplifting message, making it a staple of the era.

The blend of electronic soundscapes with traditional holiday themes helped 80s Christmas hits stand out from those of previous decades. Synthesizers allowed for innovative arrangements that guided listeners through the bright and sometimes experimental musical landscapes of the decade. These instruments became essential in crafting a new kind of Christmas spirit in music.

Catchy Melodies and Lyrics

Catchy melodies and engaging lyrics are central to 80s Christmas songs. With simple yet memorable hooks, these songs invite listeners to sing along and feel the celebration. Tracks like “Funky, Funky, Xmas” by New Kids On The Block used playful lyrics and energetic beats to grab audiences’ attention.

These songs often focused on themes of joy, togetherness, and holiday cheer, wrapped in radio-friendly formats. This combination ensured that they could be easily remembered and played repeatedly, ensuring their long-lasting appeal. The emphasis on choruses that everyone could join in on played a crucial role in solidifying these songs as holiday classics.

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