The final stretch between Thanksgiving and winter break can feel longer than the entire summer. Between being cooped up in Bobst Library and bracing yourself against the brutal wind chill, it’s easy to overlook the holiday markets, lit trees and seasonal joy all around the city. Whether you’re chasing the nostalgia of your childhood Christmas or simply counting down the days until the semester ends, the sappy charm of holiday tunes are sure to get you feeling festive. The next time you stroll through the city, here’s a collection of songs to keep your spirits high during one of the most magical times of year.
“Bless the Telephone” by Labi Siffre
Although not explicitly a seasonal song, “Bless the Telephone” perfectly complements the coziness of colder months. Labi Siffre’s gentle vocals and light guitar strumming make it feel like a lullaby — not to mention that the lyrics are some of the sweetest ever, as Siffre sings to his long-distance sweetheart, “It’s nice to hear you say ‘hello’ / And ‘how are things with you — I love you.’” He captures the excitement of a phone call to a loved one in an incredibly charming tune.
— Skylar Boilard, Performing Arts Editor
“Winter Things” by Ariana Grande
As someone who’s cherished Florida’s 80-degree winters for the majority of my life, Boca Raton-born Ariana Grande perfectly captures the comfort of a warm holiday season in “Winter Things.” Against acoustic instrumentation, she sings, “My jacket don’t get no love, no hats and no gloves / Not even a chance to rain / But my baby’s in town and we’re gonna do some winter things.” Though most winter tunes romanticize the quintessential white Christmas, Grande’s track speaks for those who are perfectly content swapping snow and scarves for sun and shades.
— Amelia Knust, Music Editor
“It’s the Most Wonderful Time of the Year” by Andy Williams
I am a firm believer that this song can be endlessly replayed in retail stores as soon as Nov. 1 hits. Andy Williams’ rich vocals are the heart of “It’s the Most Wonderful Time of the Year,” embodying sentimental spirit throughout. As he sings “There’ll be much mistletoeing / And hearts will be glowing when loved ones are near,” his cheer is impossible to resist, turning even the most bitter scrooges into holiday enthusiasts. Whenever I hear this tune, it immediately transports me to a flurry of nostalgia, watching Christmas films with my family and being awestruck at glowing lights. Even if some claim it’s overplayed, this one will forever live fondly in my heart.
— Ellie DaSilva, Staff Writer
“Christmas Everyday” by Gia Farrell
Complete with literal sleigh bells and insane riffs, “Christmas Everyday” has all the components of a hype holiday anthem. Gia Farrell’s bright pop tone and energetic backup singers work perfectly with the song’s incredibly relatable lyrics — I, too, wish it were Christmas every day. The tune, which describes the anticipation for one of the best days of the year, makes for a fabulous finals week pick, capturing the desperation for some Christmas joy.
— Annie Emans, Staff Writer
“Christmas Time Is Here” by Vince Guaraldi Trio
The season doesn’t feel complete without a rewatch of the 1965 classic “A Charlie Brown Christmas” — and this song, which is featured in the film, is the best way to set the tone. “Christmas Time Is Here” is a warm hot chocolate and cozy blanket in song form. Its gentle jazz timbre alone puts holiday stresses at ease, and when played while Charlie Brown ice skates with his friends, it encapsulates the nostalgia and bittersweet emotions of the winter season. Peppier Christmas tunes are good for frantic trips to find last-minute gifts, but this all-timer is “Fun for all that children call / Their favorite time of year.”
— Ellie Miller, Staff Writer
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