The morning after Thanksgiving, I awaken to the joy of knowing that I can truly listen to Christmas music. Even though I heard hints of these magical songs starting Nov. 1, the day after Thanksgiving is truly the time to start listening.

Since Christmas is only 3 weeks away, here are the Royal Reporter’s top 12 best Christmas songs to listen to.

(Before reading this, it is important to recognize that this list took many long hours to debate and started numerous wars in the journalism classroom. Also, this list is not in order.)

1. “Christmas – Baby Please Come Home” – U2 and Mariah Carey

“Baby Please Come Home” is the perfect song to listen to on a drive when in the Christmas mood. Both Mariah Carey and the band U2 did their own amazing versions of this song. 10/10 *chefs kiss*

2. “White Christmas” – Bing Crosby

One of my mom’s favorite, “White Christmas” reminds me of a special memory I have with my mom. We would always choose a day the week before Christmas and watch the “White Christmas” movie. (A movie that sparked my love for musical theatre).

3. “Jingle Bell Rock” – Bobby Helms

“Jingle bell rock” is not only fun to listen to, but is also featured in the iconic movie, “Mean Girls.”

4. “Run Run Rudolph” – Chuck Berry

This upbeat Christmas song is the perfect song to dance to and immediately puts anyone in the Christmas spirit.

5. “The Christmas Song” – Nat King Cole

This song is truly the theme song of Christmas. A classic that’ll make you want to roast chestnuts on an open fire. Nat King Cole knew what he was doing.

6. “Rocking Around the Christmas Tree” – Brenda Lee

Colleen Schmitt ’23, who has a special memory with this song, said, “I really enjoy this song because my family and I usually listen to it when we start decorating our Christmas tree. It always lifts my spirit.”

7. “All I Want for Christmas Is You” – Mariah Carey

No explanation needed. Great song to listen to after taking finals in my opinion.

8. “Last Christmas” – Wham

I believe my first Christmas memory was when my dad sat me down and played the “Last Christmas” music video. I loved the song so much; it was actually the first song I ever learned to play on my ukulele (which I still play today). “Last Christmas” will always have a special place in my heart.

9. “Believe” by Josh Groban

Anna DiCrisi ’22 had very strong opinions to be shared about this list states, “This is the most beautiful version of the best Christmas song “Believe.” You can’t tell me otherwise.  Josh Groban has the voice of an angel and I am personally offended by you if you don’t agree with me.”

10. “Please Come Home for Christmas” – The Eagles

Elena Walz ’22 stated “Please Come Home for Christmas,” specifically by The Eagles is objectively the best Christmas song forever and will be for ever and ever and ever. Amen.”

11. “Its Beginning to Look a Lot like Christmas” – Michael Buble

Another Christmas classic, Michael Buble sang this song with such elegance and passion. This song will make you want to walk around in a snow-filled park and reminisce over Christmas memories.

12. “Cool Yule” – Louis Armstrong

Keira Sarni ’22 stated, “Best. Christmas. Song. Ever. It’s my dad’s favorite Christmas song, and we love to blast it in the car!”

Honorable song mentions:

1. “Carol of the Bells” – Trans Siberia orchestra
2. “Linus and Lucy” – Vince Guaraldi
3. “Feliz Navidad”- Jose Felicia

Every Christmas song is special to each individual for different reasons. The overall purpose of Christmas songs is to bring friends and family togther to celebrate the Christmas season and rejoice in Christmas memories. Comment down below what your favorite Christmas song is.