The 15 School Days of Christmas: Freshen up that holiday playlist

Josephine Wysocki, News Editor

December 10, 2024

With the holiday season approaching, music fans may want additions to their holiday playlists. Image by Brett Sayles via Pexels.com

As the holiday season approaches, music fans may find themselves listening to the same Christmas songs over and over again. Though the classics are amazing, hearing “Jingle Bells” on replay can get a little repetitive. For those who are looking to switch up your holiday playlist, here are just a few underrated songs to consider.

The 15 School Days of Christmas: Freshen up that holiday playlist

“A Dreamer’s Holiday” retains the music style of classic holiday songs. Photo via Matador Records

“A Dreamer’s Holiday” - Julien Baker

“Climb aboard a butterfly / An' take off on the breeze / Let your worries flutter by”

In “A Dreamer’s Holiday,” Julien Baker tells the story of an imaginary, dream-like world.

It is a cover of the song, originally released in 1956. However, Baker’s take on it is a more modern, peaceful version.

Though it is different in many ways, the song retains the music style of classic, slower holiday songs. Though it does not directly reference any specific holidays, the song portrays the same feeling as popular Christmas oldies.

Its unique nature is what makes the song so impressive. It is able to illustrate the Christmas feeling while never actually referencing the holiday itself. Baker’s cover especially uses the background music to further convey the Christmas spirit.

Baker’s lyrical and vocal talent is something to be praised, especially in this song. It is the ideal track for those craving a cozy Christmas atmosphere.
“Merry Christmas, Please Don’t Call” is Bleachers’ latest holiday single. Photo via Dirty Hit

“Merry Christmas, Please Don't Call” - Bleachers

“And the toughest part is that we both know / What happened to you / Why you’re out on your own / Merry Christmas, please don’t call”

“Merry Christmas, Please Don’t Call” is Bleachers’ latest song, released as a single in November. Though it has gained some popularity on social media, it has rarely been played on typical holiday stations.

Jack Antonoff, a member of the band and composer of the song, is known for his distinct style of pop-rock songs. This song is no exception to the trend.

The lyrics follow the singer’s thoughts recalling an old relationship, with the words “please don’t call” repeating throughout the song. This repetition gives a bittersweet feeling to listeners as Antonoff recalls the subject of the song's “awful” nature.

This song is relatively fast-paced, but its sadder lyrics create a perfect “quiet winter” vibe. Overall, “Merry Christmas, Please Don’t Call” is one of the most creative, well written songs of the year, and will likely become a Christmas favorite for many listeners.
“Christmas All Over Again,” featured in “Home Alone 2,” is an upbeat Christmas tune. Photo via A&M Studios

“Christmas All Over Again” - Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers

“And right down our block / Little kids start to rock / Christmas is a rockin' time”

“Christmas All Over Again” is for everyone who loves a fun, upbeat Christmas tune.

The song is featured in “Home Alone 2,” but has been considerably less popular in recent years. However, it shares the same thrilling Christmas feeling as other well-loved holiday songs.

Petty puts tons of energy into the lyrics, which talk about all the best parts of Christmas. His energy, paired with the exciting holiday music in the background, gives the listeners a sense of the cheerful holiday spirit.

This original song, released in 1992, acts as a perfect portrayal of the best parts of Christmas. It recites the best things about the season -- “Everybody's singin' / All the bells are ringin' out.”

Overall, “Christmas All Over Again” deserves its time to shine once again.

About the Contributor

Josephine Wysocki, News Editor

News Editor Josephine Wysocki is a junior and a second-year Purbalite member. She can be found reading or listening to music.

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The 15 School Days of Christmas: Freshen up that holiday playlist

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