If you’re like me, you like the holidays a lot. The decorations, the festivities, and especially the break. And if you’re even more like me, you’re a music geek, always looking for new songs and new bands that won’t be on B96 or KIIS FM. That’s why I prepared for the season of cheer by compiling a list of holiday songs that I wouldn’t get tired of, and I am more than happy to share this music with you all. Be warned, these are mostly Christmas songs, yet they might not be your average happy, cheery, songs for tree decorating. But if you have an open mind and diverse music library, this list will be perfect for you.

1. White Winter Hymnal – Fleet Foxes This is a popular one, whether your childhood choir did a rendition of this eerie holiday tune, or you had a Pentatonix phase like the rest of us. As you can tell from the title, this is a winter song, and if you don’t listen too closely to the lyrics it’s simply an upbeat holiday classic. If you do…have fun figuring out what the heck Fleet Foxes was talking about.
2. Blue Christmas – Bright Eyes This stripped down version of an Elvis Presley classic is sung by Conor Oberst of the folk rock band Bright Eyes, from the 2002 “A Christmas Album”. For those of you spending the holiday season alone, or who like a heart-wrenching tune here and there, this is the song for you.
3. We’re The Lucky Ones – The Marías Now if you’re one of the lucky ones, and have someone to spend the cold months with, this slow 2020 love song from The Marías might be one that makes you want to hang the mistletoe.
4. I Won’t Be Home for Christmas – blink-182 My personal favorite on this list, I Won’t Be Home for Christmas is an original blink-182 single that initially went unreleased. This humorous head banger is one I recommend for those who may be on the Scrooge side of things this Christmas, which I imagine is a lot of us this year.
5. A Great Big Sled – The Killers Scratch the last note, this one is my favorite. From the makers of the iconic heartbreak anthem, Mr. Brightside, A Great Big Sled is a less…cynical tune from the Killers. If you’re looking for a song to dance around to while screaming at the top of your lungs, this one’s for you.

While there are tens and hundreds more alternative holiday songs for your listening pleasure, I’ll let you enjoy these few over the coming weeks. I hope you enjoy the recommendations, and feel free to share your favorite holiday song, pop, rock, or whatever else floats your boat.