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Best of Brakfast Episode 174 Yana Bolder
Christmas Day has a soundtrack all of its own. From the moment the first mince pie is unwrapped to the last sip of leftover mulled wine, certain songs seem to follow us wherever we go. Some make us sing along with glee, while others… well, let’s just say we quietly reach for the skip button. Here’s a look at the Christmas tracks we can’t escape, why they’re everywhere, and why some are secretly loved or hated.
The Most Played Christmas Songs Ever
Certain tracks have become inescapable during the festive season. Classics like “All I Want for Christmas Is You” by Mariah Carey, “Last Christmas” by Wham!, and “Fairytale of New York” by The Pogues dominate playlists, radio airwaves, and shopping centre sound systems year after year. Their catchy melodies, singable choruses, and nostalgic appeal make them perennial favourites—and for many, hearing them immediately sparks memories of past holidays.
Streaming and radio stats show these hits surge to the top every December. Whether it’s a nod to tradition, nostalgia, or simply habit, these songs have cemented themselves as Christmas Day staples.
The Songs People Secretly Love… and Hate
Not every Christmas classic is universally adored. Some tracks evoke strong opinions. “Do They Know It’s Christmas?” by Band Aid can be a tearjerker for some, while others roll their eyes at its repeated airplay. Conversely, upbeat tunes like “Merry Christmas Everyone” by Shakin’ Stevens or novelty songs like “Grandma Got Run Over by a Reindeer” have a cult following, even if listeners wouldn’t admit it out loud.
There’s a delicate balance between festive cheer and festive fatigue, and each family’s playlist is unique. Some tracks are treasured because of personal memories; others survive purely because of tradition—or relentless repetition.
Why Certain Tracks Never Go Away
Why do some songs persist year after year? The answer lies in a mix of nostalgia, marketing, and musical catchiness. Radio stations, retail playlists, and streaming services all play a part in ensuring certain tracks become seasonal mainstays. Mariah Carey’s vocal gymnastics, Wham!’s 80s synth hooks, and The Pogues’ bittersweet storytelling create emotional triggers that are hard to ignore.
Moreover, these songs are generational glue—they connect families, old friends, and even strangers singing along in stores or around the Christmas tree. Once a song is linked to memories of Christmas past, it becomes virtually untouchable.
The Verdict
Whether you love them, hate them, or secretly tolerate them, Christmas Day songs are part of the holiday experience. They evoke memories, spark arguments, and sometimes inspire spontaneous dance-offs in the living room. The most played songs have earned their place in tradition, and for better or worse, they are unlikely to disappear anytime soon.
So, this Christmas, as you unwrap presents and pour the festive drinks, take a moment to embrace the soundtrack—even if it’s one you’ve secretly been avoiding all year. After all, it wouldn’t feel like Christmas without it.
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