Ben Choi-Harris (I): “Underneath the Tree” by Kelly Clarkson
Kelly Clarkson’s vocals are amazing in any performance, but “Underneath the Tree” truly showcases her skills. It became a popular new Christmas song after many years of covers, making it a banger for any holiday party and the entire winter season.
Hannah Stoll (I): “If It Be Your Will” by HAIM
A Leonard Cohen classic covered by the three HAIM sisters (Jewish icons!) in a 2019 compilation album Hanukkah+ features various artists covering classic Hanukkah songs. This is a beautiful and spiritual rendition of the song that is perfect for bringing some light to a cold and dark night.
Andrew Zheng (I): “Last Christmas” by Wham!
“Last Christmas” is one of those songs that you never remember learning the lyrics for but know them anyway because of its popularity and catchiness. The song gives listeners a nostalgic feeling of the vibes surrounding the holiday season that excites anyone.
Alex Le (II): “Jingle Bell Rock” by Bobby Helms
Any holiday playlist needs “Jingle Bell Rock” on it; it is incomplete without the song. As probably one of people’s first additions, it is a complete classic for the season, and it would be disrespectful to the song if it is not included.
Ross Wilson (II): “Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree” by Brenda Lee
“Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree” was released in 1958. After half a century, it is no wonder that the classic song is so popular. Even if nobody attending Boston Latin School was alive when the song was released, it still carries nostalgia for many people. The new holiday music would be nothing without the old to support it, so this addition is much appreciated.
Juliet McVay (II): “is it new years yet?” by Sabrina Carpenter
Sabrina Carpenter has a full holiday-themed album and even a new holiday special on Netflix, so she is well-versed in the season. “is it new years yet?” may not be a classic choice, but it does have the background jingle of bells and features fun lyrics about wishing for New Year’s, while being tired of relatives and getting annoyed with those pesky happy couples.
Vicky Su (II): “All I Want for Christmas is You” by Mariah Carey
Although no song can be dubbed the anthem of the holidays, “All I Want for Christmas is You” comes pretty close. Everybody who hears this song knows what time of year it is and it never fails to get people in the spirit to both celebrate and dance. Such an iconic song cannot be skipped when it brings such excitement of winter and festivities.
Anneliese Yu (IV): “Santa Baby” by Laufey
This song is a well-loved classic and has been covered by many artists. Laufey’s cover has a unique style and vocals that give the track her own flare while fitting in with the original classic. The song is perfect for a quiet snowy night during the holiday season wrapped in blankets, next to a fireplace.