17 Underrated Christmas Songs: Surprise Everyone!

Hey fellow groove enthusiasts! TBone here from Level Tunes. As a DJ and die-hard music aficionado, I’ve always been on the hunt for those hidden gems that don’t get the airplay they deserve.

We’ve all grooved to “All I Want for Christmas Is You” and “Last Christmas,” but what about those festive bangers that slip under the radar?

That’s right, I’m talking about the underrated Christmas tracks that deserve a spot on your holiday playlist.

I decided to dig deep into my vinyl collection and compile a list of 17 Christmas songs that might’ve escaped your ears. Trust me, these are worth the listen!

Here are the best underrated Christmas songs that you can check out:

List Of Underrated Christmas Songs

underrated Christmas songs in a list format:

1. “Christmas Time is Here” by Vince Guaraldi Trio

Album: A Charlie Brown Christmas Year: 1965 Label: Fantasy Vince Guaraldi’s jazzy renditions have warmed many a heart through the iconic “Peanuts” animations. Though “Christmas Time is Here” may ring a bell, it often gets overshadowed by more commercial hits. The gentle piano chords combined with a children’s choir evoke nostalgia. Choosing this was a no-brainer; it’s timelessly soothing.

2. “River” by Joni Mitchell

Album: Blue Year: 1971 Label: Reprise Records While not strictly a Christmas song, Joni Mitchell’s melancholic “River” speaks to the longing and reflection that can accompany the season. The haunting piano lines and Joni’s crystalline voice paint a poignant winter landscape. I chose this because the raw emotion makes it a beautiful alternative holiday tune.

3. “Star of Wonder” by Sufjan Stevens

Album: Songs for Christmas Year: 2006 Label: Asthmatic Kitty Sufjan offers a fresh, indie-pop take on the traditional carol. It’s whimsical, delicate, and features Stevens’ signature multi-instrumental magic. If you want something both familiar and new for the holidays, this is a perfect pick.

4. “Christmas Card from a Hooker in Minneapolis” by Tom Waits

Album: Blue Valentine Year: 1978 Label: Asylum Records Tom Waits is known for his gritty voice and narrative lyrics. This song, while having a cheeky title, is deep, touching, and beautifully raw. I included it for those who love a story-driven song with a hint of bluesy charm.

5. “Christmas in the Room” by Sufjan Stevens

Album: Silver & Gold Year: 2012 Label: Asthmatic Kitty Yes, another Sufjan entry. But can you blame me? This song is warm, intimate, and speaks of the joy of simply being with loved ones. It’s a reminder that the best part of Christmas isn’t the gifts but the shared moments.

6. “Just Like Christmas” by Low

Album: Christmas Year: 1999 Label: Kranky This indie rock Christmas song has a unique blend of dreamy vocals and upbeat tempo. Low creates a nostalgia-infused track that’s both joyous and reflective. I chose it for its infectious energy and unmistakable indie charm.

7. “Christmas Wrapping” by The Waitresses

Album: Wasn’t Tomorrow Wonderful? Year: 1982 Label: Polydor An often-overlooked 80s gem, this song combines post-punk energy with holiday storytelling. Patty Donahue’s vocals are as witty as they are catchy. I adore this for its blend of sass and festive cheer.

8. “That Was the Worst Christmas Ever!” by Sufjan Stevens

Album: Songs for Christmas Year: 2006 Label: Asthmatic Kitty Though it carries a melancholic title, there’s beauty in this soft, acoustic-driven track. Sufjan paints a vivid picture, and I chose it for its stark contrast to typical joyous carols.

9. “In the Bleak Midwinter” by James Taylor

Album: James Taylor at Christmas Year: 2006 Label: Columbia James Taylor’s soul-soothing voice brings magic to this classic hymn. The acoustic guitar and gentle arrangements make this a sublime listen. It’s a song of hope, perfect for quiet winter evenings.

10. “Christmas Must Be Tonight” by The Band

Album: Islands Year: 1977 Label: Capitol Records Roots rock meets the nativity story in this heartfelt rendition. The Band’s rich harmonies and poignant lyrics bring a rustic charm that feels both earthy and divine.

11. “It Doesn’t Have to Be That Way” by Jim Croce

Album: Life and Times Year: 1973 Label: ABC Records Jim Croce’s tender voice sings of lost love during the holiday season. Its heartfelt lyrics and classic folk-rock sound make it a must-listen for those who appreciate a touch of melancholy with their mistletoe.

12. “She Came Home for Christmas” by Mew

Album: Frengers Year: 2003 Label: Sony Danish alternative rock band Mew offers a hauntingly beautiful track. Its atmospheric soundscapes combined with emotive lyrics make it a unique addition to the festive playlist.

13. “A Great Big Sled” by The Killers feat. Toni Halliday

Album: (Single) Year: 2006 Label: Island A modern Christmas rock anthem, this song captures the spirit of youth and holiday excitement. The Killers’ vibrant sound, paired with Halliday’s vocals, is simply infectious.

14. “Christmas for Cowboys” by John Denver

Album: Rocky Mountain Christmas Year: 1975 Label: RCA John Denver’s crystal-clear voice sings of a cowboy’s Christmas out in the West. It’s serene, picturesque, and perfect for those who love a touch of country twang.

15. “Fairytale of New York” by The Pogues feat. Kirsty MacColl

Album: If I Should Fall from Grace with God Year: 1987 Label: Stiff Records A modern classic that’s often overlooked, this song is a blend of Irish folk and punk. Its raw, narrative-driven approach makes it an unforgettable Christmas story.

16. “Christmas Was Better in the 80s” by The Futureheads

Album: (Single) Year: 2010 Label: Nul Records A cheeky nod to nostalgia, this track by The Futureheads is a fun, upbeat reminder of Christmases past. It’s a festive romp, perfect for dancing around the tree.

17. “Winter Song” by Sara Bareilles & Ingrid Michaelson

Album: The Hotel Café Presents Winter Songs Year: 2008 Label: Epic This delicate ballad is a duet of pure harmony. Bareilles and Michaelson’s voices meld in a poignant reflection on love and winter. It’s a gentle reminder of the beauty in simplicity.

Fun Facts: Underrated Christmas Songs

“Christmas Time is Here” by Vince Guaraldi Trio

• Fact: The song was written specifically for the 1965 TV special, “A Charlie Brown Christmas”. Interestingly, the special almost didn’t air. Executives at CBS found it too slow and the jazz music unconventional. Of course, it’s now considered a classic.

“River” by Joni Mitchell

• Fact: While “River” is often played during the Christmas season due to its festive references, Mitchell wrote it as a reflection on a failed romantic relationship. It’s actually one of her most-covered songs, with over 500 known recordings!

“Star of Wonder” by Sufjan Stevens

• Fact: Sufjan Stevens has released a whopping 100 Christmas songs over various albums and EPs. His fascination with the holiday season has led to an eclectic mix of original tracks and covers.

“Christmas Card from a Hooker in Minneapolis” by Tom Waits

• Fact: The song is written in the form of a letter from a prostitute to her old friend and former lover. It takes a twist at the end, revealing that the letter might not be all it seems. Waits is known for his storytelling prowess, and this song is a shining example.

“Just Like Christmas” by Low

• Fact: The band Low is known for their slow-tempo, minimalist sound, often described as “slowcore.” But “Just Like Christmas” is a departure, being one of their most upbeat songs.

“Christmas Wrapping” by The Waitresses

• Fact: Patty Donahue, the lead vocalist, speaks most of the song rather than sings it, which gives it a unique charm. The track recounts the singer’s year and culminates in a surprising Christmas Eve reunion with an ex-boyfriend.

Hope those underrated songs will rock your Christmas parties!

Thanks for reading.

TBone