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AROUND THE TREE — When it comes to Christmas music, there are a lot of choices — maybe too many choices.
If you tend to tense up when it's your turn to play DJ, never fear! We've got your back. Here are some holiday playlists to get things started, whatever the occasion.
When all you want for Christmas is Mariah Carey
If you're looking for the perfect pop playlist, there's no choice but to start with Mariah Carey.
From there, you can take it anywhere you want. Maybe some Jonas Brothers? Sure. John Legend? Of course. Kyle Minogue? Yes, please.
When you want a new twist on the old classics
Maybe you like the old stuff — Andy Williams, Dean Martin, Bing Crosby — but you need a little more energy.
The "Christmas Remixed" compilations pair the old classics with DJs like Dan the Automator and Utah's own Kaskade. Christmas never felt so dancey.
When you want to listen to 'Last Christmas' over and over
In 1984, Wham! recorded what is either the worst Christmas song ever written or the best. (I'm going with the latter.)
If the original isn't for you, maybe one of these covers will be. Who does it best? Taylor Swift? Ariana Grande? Gwen Stefani? Leslie Odom Jr.? Jimmy Eat World gets my vote.
When you're looking for the perfect Chrismukkah soundtrack
Sure, combining the words Christmas and Hanukkah goes all the way back to the 1800s. But it wasn't until Seth Cohen celebrated the holiday on "The O.C." in 2003 that the name really took hold.
Chrismukkah led to a lot of drama for Seth, Ryan, Marissa, and Summer but, more importantly, it spawned a fantastic soundtrack — and my favorite Christmas song of all time, "The Christmas Song" by The Raveonettes.
When you're missing The Lower Lights
COVID-19 has ruined a lot of things this year, including Utah folk collective The Lower Lights' annual Christmas concerts.
Luckily, you can stream both of their Christmas albums, "Come Let Us Adore Him" and "Sing Noel."
Lower Lights Christmas playlist
When you're only willing to listen to Christmas music in punk rock form
Even punks celebrate Christmas — in their own way. The Misfits identify best with the Grinch. The Vandals (and later No Doubt) believe you can't spell "joy" without "oi!" And they all agree that Christmas music is best played fast and loud.
What are your favorite Christmas songs? Share in the comments.
