This year's roundup is bigger than ever, with so many artists putting out new Christmas music. I compiled a list of 25 original songs, 15 beloved covers, and 22 full albums or EPs that are comprised of originals, covers, and collaborations. Christmas is often the one thing that can unite us as we all relish heartfelt Christmas carols, whether joyful, sad, or just plain silly.
Originals
"Christmas Ain't Christmas" by Chris Young – With Chris Young's enveloping baritone, "Christmas Ain't Christmas" offers a moving tribute to the people who make the season meaningful and memorable.
"Christmas At 60 MPH" by Hannah Ellis and Nick Wayne – Husband and wife duo, Hannah and Nick, are simply riding along as they enjoy a holiday on the highway. The lighthearted nostalgia of the original finds its roots in real life, as each year Ellis and Wayne practically meet themselves coming and going in an attempt to visit both sides of their divorced families. They make the best of a tricky situation, however, with a playlist of their favorite carols and warm cups of coffee, as they make a mad dash from one festive gathering to the next.
"Christmas In New York" by Cyndi Thomson - Country singer-songwriter Cyndi Thomson captures the magic and melancholy of the holiday season with her brand-new single "Christmas in New York." Co-written by Thomson with Heather Morgan, the wistful track paints a cinematic picture of love lost against the backdrop of the city that never sleeps.
"Christmas In The Tropics" by Linda Imperial - Just in time for the holidays, Linda Imperial invites listeners to celebrate the season with sunshine and soul through her beloved singles "Christmas in the Tropics" and "Christmas, You and Me."
"Christmas Is All In The Heart" by Steven Curtis Chapman and CeCe Winans - Steven Curtis Chapman and CeCe Winans re-record their beloved Christmas carol 30 years later, and it's better than ever.
"Christmas Snow" by Makenzie Phipps – (From this season of The Voice's Team Snoop!) Makenzie Phipps brings us a gentle, romantic holiday tune that reflects on the warmth and magic of sharing winter moments with someone special.
"Christmas Star" by Brontë Fall - Multi-instrumentalist Brontë Fall submits her worthy entry into the holiday love song canon with "Christmas Star."
"Coldest Night of The Year" by Jessica Willis Fisher - Jessica Willis Fisher's first original holiday song, "Coldest Night of the Year," is a wistful, nostalgic, bittersweet tune you will enjoy daily between now and New Year's.
"For Years" by Grace Humphries - "For Years" is a heartfelt holiday ballad that captures the emotion of love, loss, and the memories that linger during the most magical time of year. The song reflects on the bittersweet feeling of missing someone at Christmas while cherishing the moments that remain close to the heart. With its honest lyrics and beautiful delivery, "For Years" embodies the spirit of the season, filled with love, reflection, and timeless emotion.
"Hearts Christmas Blues" by Christopher Wyze and the Tellers featuring Emma Wilson - Blues singer Christopher Wyze's hit "Stuck in the Mud" was so popular with the jazz/blues set, they recorded two original Christmas songs. Check out "Christmas in Jail" too.
"Hometown Christmas" by Tori Rose - Rooted in nostalgia and wrapped in acoustic charm, "Hometown Christmas" reflects on the charm of small-town traditions.
"Jingle All The Way" by Nelven - NELVEN ushers in the holiday season with the release of "Jingle All The Way," a cheerful and vibrant single that captures the joy and anticipation of Christmas.
"Joy To Your Christmas" Drew Baldridge and Mickey Guyton - Country artists Drew Baldridge and Mickey Guyton are spreading holiday cheer with their new collaboration, "Joy To Your World," which is featured on air throughout Hallmark Channel's "Countdown to Christmas" programming event.
"Kiss This Christmas" by Sheyna Gee - You'll want to get wrapped up with this country cutie as she asks for your kiss this Christmas in this lively, original country single.
"Let It Ring" Dan Ashley - Dan Ashley Spreads Holiday Cheer and the sparkle of Christmas magic with his uplifting new single, "Let It Ring."
"Mistletoe Missin' You" by Ashley Ryan - Rising country vocalist Ashley Ryan ushers in the holiday season with "Mistletoe Missin' You," an evocative, bittersweet single that blends classic country warmth with a nostalgic Christmas glow.
"Music City Mistletoe" by Shantell Ogden - Acclaimed country songwriter and storyteller Shantell Ogden delivers a holiday anthem brimming with Nashville charm. The single serves as the title track for her upcoming holiday film, Music City Mistletoe, a feel-good project written and executive produced by Ogden herself, featuring 18 all-original songs co-written with some of Nashville's top hitmakers.
"One More Christmas" by Trace Adkins - Introed with a bluesy saxophone, Trace Adkins wraps us in his velvety vocals as he brings us an original Christmas song about missing a loved one who is no longer with us. It is sure to become a holiday classic.
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"Perfect Christmas" by Elle Townley - Texas singer-songwriter and recording artist Elle Townley is readying for the holiday season with her swanky retro country original, "Perfect Christmas." "I wrote this song with Steven McClintock to bring hope to anyone who feels lonely during the holidays," said Townley. "It's a reminder that even when things feel dark, we can still find light and create our own joy."
"Santa Sleighs It Every Time" by Kevin Beadles - This rockabilly Christmas tune pays a funny, irreverent tribute to the one and only Mr. Claus. Produced by my pal, Sinclair.
"Santa's Got His Baby Something Good" by T. Graham Brown – Confession: This is from 2023, but I missed it and wanted to include it. Nobody does country soul better than T. Graham Brown, and "Santa's Got His Baby Something Good" is a playful, soulful holiday track full of anticipation, joy, and the fun of finding just the right gift.
"The Innkeeper" by Little Big Town - Beloved country quartet Little Big Town ushers in the holiday season with a heartfelt ballad about one of the Christmas season's overlooked characters, "The Innkeeper."
"What To Buy You For Christmas" by Bizz Bigsby - Singer-songwriter Bizz Bigsby rings in the holiday season with the release of his brand-new Christmas single, "What To Buy You For Christmas," that showcases his signature storytelling and charismatic delivery as he navigates the relatable struggle of trying to pick out the perfect gift for the one he loves.
"Where My Heart Is" by Randy Travis - Recorded before his 2013 stroke, the track showcases Travis' unmistakable, timeless vocals. It offers listeners a powerful reminder of his artistry. The song reflects Randy's heartfelt love for the season and its simple joys.
Covers
"Blue Christmas" by Erin Enderlin - Listen to Erin Enderlin's haunting take on the Elvis classic Christmas single. You can feel the ache on this stripped-down, lonely cover of "Blue Christmas."
"Christmas Cookies" by Smithfield - Smithfield covers their fellow Texan, George Strait, with their jingly rendition of his playful single.
"Frosty The Snowman" by Lewis Brice - Lewis Brice puts a country spin on the beloved children's classic recording.
"Hard Candy Christmas" by Hadlie Jo - The sad reality is that Christmas can be difficult for some. Hadlie Jo does a great job bringing this Dolly Parton classic to the younger generation.
"Here Comes Santa Claus" by Jacob Tolliver - Jacob Tolliver turns a Christmas classic into a piano-banger with his rockabilly version of "Here Comes Santa Claus."
"Holiday Road" by Kesha - The multiplatform release of "Holiday Road" marks the latest milestone in what has proven to be a momentous 2025 for Kesha, highlighted by the acclaimed release of her chart-topping sixth studio album . (PERIOD), as well as the biggest headline run of her career.
"Jingle Bell Rock" by Shea Fisher - Australian-born country artist Shea Fisher is bringing her signature charm and country flair to the holiday season with her new single, "Jingle Bell Rock."
"Let It Snow" by Colbie Caillat and Gavin DeGraw - Reuniting their signature harmonies, Caillat and DeGraw bring a warm, modern glow to the beloved holiday classic "Let It Snow."
"O Come, O Come Emmanuel" by Skillet - Skillet has released its first-ever Christmas recording, "O Come, O Come Emmanuel," accompanied by a powerful, moving music video.
"O Come All Ye Faithful" by Jordan Davis - Multi-platinum singer-songwriter has released "O Come All Ye Faithful" as part of Spotify Singles: Holiday Collection. "'O Come All Ye Faithful' was a song he always loved growing up, and is proud to put his spin on it for the holiday season.
"Santa Claus is Comin' to Town" by The Kody Norris Show - An upbeat, nostalgic tribute to hometown holidays, traditions, and the spirit of gathering with the people and places we hold dear, with a bluegrass vibe we have come to love.
"Silver Bells" by JD Shelburne and Crystal Gayle - Kentucky-born country standout JD Shelburne and Grand Ole Opry member and multi-award-winning country artist, Crystal Gayle, have added a fresh, heartfelt version of "Silver Bells" that has been produced to give a traditional country feel to the much-loved carol.
"White Christmas" by Scotty McCreery - Scotty McCreery has released his rendition of Irving Berlin's classic Christmas song, "White Christmas." He stated, "I love Christmas music and sing it throughout the year. 'White Christmas' is one of my favorite Christmas songs, and I especially love The Drifters' version as well as Elvis's version. I decided it was now time to do my own version."
"Winter Wonderland" by Exile - American country rock legends and Kentucky Music Hall of Fame inductees Exile have recorded and released "Winter Wonderland," one of the most beloved and frequently recorded holiday songs ever. The band stated, "We've loved 'Winter Wonderland' our whole lives and are happy that we finally got to record it, our way!"
EPs and Albums
A Cherry Valley Holiday by Carter Faith – Nashville's newest country star, Carter Faith, shares a new two-song holiday collection today. A Cherry Valley Holiday features a rendition of The Eagles' "Please Come Home for Christmas," and a new original song, "Nothin' for Christmas," with William Beckmann.
Bells on Belles by Belles - Rising country artist Belles ushers in the holiday season with the release of her EP, Bells on Belles, featuring reimagined holiday classics, "Silver Bells" and "Jingle Bell Rock." Infused with her signature country flair and modern charm.
Christmas in Belfast by Rend Collective - Irish-Folk worship band, Rend Collective delivers festive renditions of five holiday classics and three cozy new originals, including "The Reason" and "Room At The Inn."
Christmas Memories Unlocked by Jeremy Calloway - Christmas has always been his favorite time of year, and Jeremy Calloway's new EP, Christmas Memories Unlocked, offers his fans a heartfelt soundtrack to celebrate the birth of hope and the spirit of giving.
Evergreen Christmas Sessions by Hunter Hayes - Blending his signature heartfelt storytelling and genre-bending musicianship, Hayes reimagines four beloved holiday favorites. From the upbeat sparkle of "Winter Wonderland" and the electrifying energy of "Run Run Rudolph" to the timeless comfort of "Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas" and the gentle warmth of "Silent Night," the collection showcases his expansive artistry.
Every Day is Christmas by Chris Blue - Chris Blue, the Winner of NBC's The Voice Season 12, has a Christmas cover album that is not to be missed. Note track #2 Joy To The World (Unspeakable Joy), which features Voices of Lee, from my alma mater, Lee University.
Feels Like Christmas by Mickey Guyton - Feels Like Christmas marks Mickey's first full-length holiday album, serving fans a fresh sound that showcases her versatility as an artist. Note the track "Sugar Cookie," an original song that is the perfect soundtrack for those who love holiday baking.
I'll Be Home For Christmas by Drew & Ellie Holcomb - Drew & Ellie Holcomb are award-winning songwriters whose harmony-rich Americana has earned sold-out tours, beloved holiday traditions, and appearances on national TV. This holiday collection pairs beloved classics with warm, stripped-back arrangements that spotlight the Holcombs' harmonies and the nostalgic, family-centered spirit they're known for.
Jingle Jangle Rock by RaeLynn - With three original tracks and three covers, platinum-selling country artist RaeLynn is bringing a little honky tonk to the holiday season. From rowdy to reverent, Jingle Jangle Rock serves as the perfect soundtrack for a Country Christmas – full of lighthearted spirit and wrapped in a burlap bow. "Redneck Christmas" is my favorite off the record.
Leann Rimes Greatest Hits Christmas by Leann Rimes - Leann Rimes has recorded so many Christmas songs that she has now created a Greatest Hits album of just Christmas songs. This collection reflects the memories, prayers, and playfulness she has poured into the season.
Luke Bryan Christmas by Luke Bryan - Five-time Entertainer of the Year winner Luke Bryan is releasing new music just in time for the Holidays, Luke Bryan Christmas. The three-song EP is out today and features a collaboration with award-winning singer-songwriter Ella Langley, "Winter Wonderland."
Merry Merry-achi Christmas by Abby Anderson - You don't listen to Abby Anderson, you experience her. Check out the four tracks of Tex-Mex Christmas on her latest EP.
Peace, Love and Cowboys by Lainey Wilson - Peace, Love, & Cowboys (Holiday Edition) is a 3-song EP featuring a new holiday version of Wilson's "Peace, Love, & Cowboys," "Let It Snow! Let It Snow! Let It Snow!" with Bing Crosby, and a rendition of George Strait's "Christmas Cookies." https://youtu.be/44wRMxYz1bo
Piano Diaries- Christmas By Toby Gad - After decades shaping some of pop music's most defining hits, GRAMMY®-winning and Diamond-certified songwriter Toby Gad turns inward this season with the release of his first, all-originals holiday album, Piano Diaries, featuring artists such as Jordin Sparks, Victoria Justice, Loren Allred, Sam Ryder, Anthony Gargiuia, Megan McKenna, and more.
Santa Baby" by Cali Tucker - Cali Tucker is spreading her own brand of Christmas cheer with Santa Baby, a six-song EP that pairs Tucker's unmistakable vocals with six Christmas classics—each interpreted in her signature style that blends warmth, soul, and sparkle.
Smoky Mountain Christmas The Dugger Band - With four original songs, the Dugger band brings their southern hometown spirit to the holidays with their EP, Smoky Mountain Christmas.
Snow Globe Town by Brad Paisley - A mix of 16 covers and originals, Snow Globe Town is Paisley's 2nd Christmas Album. He stated, "I had so much inspiration writing songs for Hallmark's 'A Grand Ole Opry Christmas' movie that it sparked a real creative energy that was honestly hard to stop, so we made an entire album." Check out "Leave The Lights on Now."
Tender Tennessee Christmas by T.G. Sheppard & Kelly Lang - Both accomplished musicians, husband and wife duo T.G. Sheppard and Kelly Lang make Christmas magic when they cover beloved Christmas carols together. The album features classics like "Mary Did You Know," "Hard Candy Christmas," and "White Christmas," along with originals "My First Christmas Without You," "Christmas in Mexico," and more. But their rendition of "Tender Tennessee Christmas" may be my favorite off the record. They stated, "When we were choosing songs for the project, the lyrics brought us comfort, so we decided to include them on the album. What a thrill it was to film the video at the Johnny Cash Cabin Recording Studio. You could feel the history within the walls."
The Christmas Record by Little Big Town - Before doing a Christmas residency at the Ryman Auditorium, Little Big Town released the album, The Christmas Record, with a mix of covers and originals.
The Holidays by Lamont Landers - Rising Americana and soul star Lamont Landers releases two Christmas songs, "This Christmas" and "Someday At Christmas."
This Winter's Night Vol. 2 by Lady A - Lady A is in the middle of their first-ever Christmas tour. The cozy mix of 11 sparkling sing-alongs, instant-favorite originals, modern-take classics, and timeless traditions is all packaged in warm harmony in preparation for the holiday season. Lady A delivers festive fun with the video for the whimsical "Winter Wonderland" as they take fans behind the scenes of the making of the album.
Wishin' For Christmas Deluxe Edition by Kimberly Dawn - Kimberly Dawn is bringing the holiday spirit in full swing with her new album, Wishin' For Christmas, a vibrant blend of traditional country charm and modern flair. With cheeky, contemporary titles like "Snowflake State of Mind" and "Ho Ho Holdin' You," she takes the nostalgia of Christmas and infuses it with fresh, youthful energy in her 15-track album.
Click here for the Spotify playlist.
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Bethany Bowman is a freelance entertainment writer. You can follow her blog, Instagram, and X.
