One of the best parts of the holiday season is the music; but after 20+ years, even “Jingle Bell Rock” can get a little old. Here’s a few amazing covers to liven up your holiday!
Sleigh Ride – Fun.
This is my favorite holiday song and I could honestly make a list of just my favorite versions, but I’ve practiced some self sontrol and decided to offer you one of the best, a poppy, modern adaptation from Fun. It’s ‘modern’ but stays true to the musicality and general vibe of the holiday classic.
Baby It’s Cold Outside – Lady Gaga and Joseph Gordon-Levitt
Just when you thought that this song was played out, here comes Lady Gaga and JGL with a gamechanger. The gender reversal makes it feel like a new, feminist friendly, version of a holiday standard. Not to mention, if I had Joseph Gordon Levitt in my room at Christmas, I’d do anything-even sing and dance- to keep him there. Can I get an Amen?
Angels We Have Heard on High – Home Free
The harmonies! A glorious acapella cover that somehow makes a beautiful song beautiful-er (I know “beautiful-er” isn’t a word, but it’s the holidays so you have to forgive me). You’re welcome.
Mistletoe – Colbie Caillat
I first heard this song in a Forever 21 and had no idea this was a Christmas song until the chorus – partially because I was hunting for a party dress and partially because the cover sounds like a typical Colbie Caillat ditty. Caillat’s beachy sound helps us imagine that there’s sand and waves down the block, in stead of snow drifts. Hey, we can’t all have Christmas in California.
Dear Santa – Tim McGraw
Because I’d love to wake up to Tim McGraw under my tree, but love Faith Hill too much to ruin the best marriage in country. Having him serenade me all month will have to do.
Sam Smith – Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas
After releasing an album called In The Lonely Hour, it’s not surprising that Sam Smith chose to cover this 40s hearbreaker, but his perfect (and I mean perfect) vocals keep us listening in spite of the less-than-jolly vibe.
Santa Claus Is Comin’ To Town – Bruce Springsteen
Do Christmas like an American!
Follow HCND on Twitter, like us on Facebook, Pin with us, and show our Instagram some love!