It seems like everyone has their opinions on Christmas songs, but my opinion is what matters the most (half kidding). So here are the best (and worst) Christmas songs—not to be debated.

Best:

“Underneath the Tree” by Kelly Clarkson

Kelly Clarkson (aka the vocal queen) isn’t a stranger to Christmas songs. With her Christmas albums When Christmas Comes Around and Wrapped in Red, there are so many contenders to take the top spot, but Clarkson’s “Underneath the Tree” is a pop-y and upbeat standout. And I’m not the only one who loves the song: it has over 700 million streams on Spotify alone. Because “Underneath the Tree” makes me want to deck the halls and jump for joy, it’s on my nice list.

“Step Into Christmas” by Elton John

“Step Into Christmas” is an absolute earworm that I don’t want to leave my head (FYI: I don’t have brain worms). Elton John puts his own pop-rock twang onto the holiday genre and takes us on a festive journey throughout the song. With playful lyrics like “Welcome to my Christmas Song” and “Step into Christmas, the admission’s free,” he makes sure that all listeners know that Christmas is for everyone. So if you want to join me in my Christmas hot takes, listen to “Step Into Christmas.”

“River” by Joni Mitchell

Make sure you have the Kleenex folks because this one will rip your heart out. Joni Mitchell is often considered one of the best songwriters of all time, and “River” is no exception. The song was actually based on Mitchell’s heartbreak between her and fellow musician Graham Nash. When Mitchell and Nash’s relationship was falling apart, she needed to get away and went on a trip to Europe. The experience was what moved her to write lyrics like “I wish I had a river/ I could skate away on.” Christmas often makes us feel like we have to be joyous all the time because it’s the “most wonderful time of the year,” but to all of those who aren’t feeling as jolly, listen to “River” by Joni Mitchell—because she understands that feeling completely.

“Christmas Wrapping” by The Waitresses

Another song for the less-than-festive folk this holiday season is “Christmas Wrapping” by The Waitresses. Though instead of breaking your heart, the song takes a more cynical approach to the glitz and glam of Christmas. My personal favorite part of the song are the relatable complaints such as “don’t think I have the energy/to add to my already mad rush,” and “I just need to catch my breath/Christmas by myself this year.” Yet despite the almost constant stream of pessimistic comments, the song’s protagonist has her happy ending (involving some forgotten cranberries). “Christmas Wrapping” is a great example of storytelling through song (with a holiday theme of course) so it is Kayla approved.

“Merry Christmas Happy Holidays” by NSYNC

Now let’s move to the most early 2000’s song on this list: NSYNC’s “Merry Christmas, Happy Holidays.” After the previous two not-so-dance-friendly songs on the list, this one makes me want to bust a move! The smooth vocals from the members and the cheerful lyrics like “feel the love in the room from the floor to the ceiling,” and “happiness ‘cause love’s in the air” make me appreciate this time of year even more. Least to say, “Merry Christmas, Happy Holidays” is Kayla certified and endorsed. 👍

Worst:

“I Want A Hippopotamus for Christmas” by Gayla Peevey

Now I don’t think it’s a surprise that this is one of the worst Christmas songs ever, but oh my goodness it’s worse than you think. The squeaky voice paired with the nonsensical lyrics is enough to send Santa back to the North Pole. While I’m aware Gayla Peevey was 10 when she sang this, there are definitely other songs where she didn’t have to utilize the shrilly-ness in her voice. Also a hippopotamus would crush her with one step; what’s the point in getting one if you’re going to end up flat as a pancake anyway? So basically this song is annoying and doesn’t make me want to bust a Christmas jig.

“Mistletoe and Holly” by Frank Sinatra

Now this one might be a hot take because it was sung by music legend Frank Sinatra, but I just really don’t love how bland this song is. It’s boring, people. Of course Sinatra is great, but the slow tempo and mundane melody that “Mistletoe and Holly” is laced with makes me want to be put down. So I’m sorry Mr. Sinatra, but this song does not make me want to sing along (nor fly to the moon). Also, I don’t want a tasty pheasant.

“I’ll be Home for Christmas” by Camilla Cabello

Finally we have “I’ll be Home for Christmas.” But wait, put your torches and pitchforks down people. I mean the cover of the song by Camilla Cabello is one of the worst Christmas songs. I love the original by Bing Crosby; it’s classic. But the Camilla Cabello one does not give it justice. While her voice sounds okay, it’s the way she pronounces the words in the song. She blends the words together which results in a song that sounds like a big old pile of blech. As a word to Camilla Cabello, learn how to correctly pronounce “Christmas”. It’s not pronounced “Quismois”!