Ever since the world collectively decided to coronate Mariah Carey as the Queen of Christmas, as usual with women in pop culture, the talk of which hopeful Christmas Princesses could replace her almost immediately followed. However, she’s only grown in her festive ferocity over the decade since embracing her Christmas royal status.

This year marks the 30th anniversary of her Queen-making song, “All I Want For Christmas is You,” and it’s clear that Carey’s Christmas confection has inspired many of her musical daughters to follow in her stiletto steps. In their sonic choices, lyrical themes, or festive holiday promotional campaigns, all of pop’s princesses want a piece of Carey’s Christmas monarchy. While she won’t be relinquishing the throne any time this century, she has blessed a few of these Christmas princesses with her coveted stamp of approval.

In this playlist, I’m ranking Carey’s Christmas princesses holistically based on several factors: the quality of their original songs, how genuine and committed they are to the genre, their cultural impact, and their reverence for the Queen.

12. Sabrina Carpenter, “Santa doesn’t know you like I do”

Fresh off of a breakout year as pop’s latest it-girl, Sabrina Carpenter wasted no time entering the Christmas conversation. In the Best New Artist nominee‘s Christmas variety special on Netflix, “A Nonsense Christmas,” she repackaged her 2023 holiday EP, “fruitcake,” for mass consumption. As sassy and sexy as her latest hits, the set is heavy on humorous innuendo that would make even the sweet-as-“Honey” Queen of Christmas Mariah Carey blush. However, on “santa doesn’t know you like i do” Carpenter tones down the innuendo in favor of cutesy Christmas tidings that make it perfect for holiday playlisting.

11. Katy Perry, “Cozy Little Christmas”

Always good for a throwback, this 2010s hitmaker released her first and only Christmas song, “Cozy Little Christmas,” in 2018. Perry put her pop songwriting sensibilities to good use for this bubbly bop that gives a modern twist to the classic Christmas uptempo sound. While there is nothing particularly fresh about its plodding piano and sleigh bell-adorned production, that’s what makes it so, well… cozy. Considering how tritely unremarkable her latest album was, she might want to go full-throwback and consider a Christmas album.

10. Ava Max, “1 Wish.”

Ava Max made her second Christmas contribution this year with the release of “1 Wish,” a supercharged pop confection that is as catchy as it is cheerful. Wholly wholesome, she opts to celebrate the Christmas season by rattling off as many items on her list of must-haves to say that her “1 Wish” is for every day to be like Christmas. Refreshingly, it is not another rewrite of the “All I Want For Christmas is You” theme in different words. Ava Max could certainly deliver a solid Christmas album one day, perhaps that’s her fans’ “1 Wish.”

9. Leona Lewis, “One More Sleep”

Since her debut as the British X-Factor winner, Leona Lewis has been compared to Mariah Carey due to her immense vocal talent and style. Like Carey, Lewis recorded a Christmas album as her fourth set in 2013. Unlike Carey, her career peaked there. Regardless, “One More Sleep” has endured over the decade-plus since its release as a minor but beloved bop inside and outside her fanbase. She reissued the album in 2021 and toured the UK for Christmas in 2023, slowly and wisely nurturing a Christmas legacy.

8. Tamar Braxton, “No Gift”

Tamar Braxton might have a very famous sibling, but she’s a self-proclaimed Lamb. She’s always shown reverence for the Queen. You can hear the influence all over her work. So, it’s no wonder that Braxton would go on to record a Christmas album… and that it’s heavily Mariah-spired. “No Gift” has the same theme as Carey’s quintessential classic, but is on the opposite end of the sonic spectrum. Braxton serves drama on this slow-building ballad that works in several classic Christmas piano interpolations.

7. Jennifer Hudson, “Santa For Someone”

In 2020, Jennifer Hudson joined the Queen of Christmas on a special “Oh Santa!” remix alongside Ariana Grande for Carey’s Apple TV+ Christmas special. In 2023, the trio had a surprise reunion at Carey’s Madison Square Garden Christmas show. Hudson released her first Christmas album this season, “The Gift of Love.” On one of its original tracks, “Santa For Someone,” Hudson masterfully executes a high-energy, horn-driven groove that’s as bombastic as it is festive. While her non-holiday music hasn’t made much of an impact, she stands a chance to make quite the name for herself in the genre. The Queen of tributes, Hudson at covering songs and making them her own. With a successful daytime talk show and Carey’s co-sign, in time, she’ll find her way.

6. Kelly Rowland, “Love You More at Christmas Time”

Kelly Rowland began her Christmas story in 2000 when Destiny’s Child recorded their first-ever Christmas song for a Rosie O’Donnell Christmas album. For you post-Millennial generation folks, I can’t even explain that for you right now. But it was a thing. Anyway, the trio released a full-length Christmas set the following year, on which Rowland had a solo cover of “Do You Hear What I Hear” heavily inspired by Whitney Houston’s rendition.

Through the years Rowland has continued to flirt with her festive side, recording several more Christmas tracks, the highlight of which is “Love You More at Christmas Time.” This original was recorded for her first Lifetime Christmas film, “Merry Liddle Christmas.” The film went on to have two sequels. With “Love You More at Christmas Time,” Rowland, like Carey, masters the pop crossover sound while maintaining her R&B sensibilities for the upbeat, romantic track. It’s been over a decade since Rowland’s last full-length album, and once she finally follows that up, it’d be nice if she recorded a solo Christmas album one day.

5. Ariana Grande, “Santa Tell Me”

In true Lamb fashion, Ariana Grande wasted no time releasing Christmas music. In 2013 and 2015, she dropped Christmas EPs; in 2014, she released her biggest holiday hit: “Santa Tell Me.” The sweet sing-a-long checks all the boxes that we’ve come to expect from a modern pop Christmas carol – thanks to Ms. Carey. Year after year, “Santa Tell Me” has become more popular, partly due to Grande’s own growing popularity, and just the simple fact that Christmas songs thrive on nostalgia. Her Christmas profile has also been aided by popular duets with the Queen of Christmas (on “Oh Santa!”) and Kelly Clarkson.

Still, it’s been 10 years since “Santa Tell Me” dropped, and nearly that for “Christmas & Chill.” While Grande’s artistry has grown over the years, her Christmas music is stuck in her less interesting musical past. With her improved vocal skills and matured sound, she could be higher on this list if she released a full-length Christmas set now– one that’s a little more Broadway and a little less “chill.”

4. Tori Kelly, “25th”

Severely underrated songstress Tori Kelly took advantage of all that pandemic free time and dropped one of her generation’s best Christmas albums. She worked closely with R&B legend Babyface to produce the album, and it does not disappoint. Kelly was even nominated for the Best Traditional Pop Vocal Album GRAMMY for the set. While all three of her original tracks are quite good, “25th” is the album’s shiniest, stickiest moment. It combines all the expected, Christmasy, sonic elements – a horn section, cheerful piano, jingling sleigh bells, a saxophone solo – with cutesy but not too cliched lyrics and a sing-a-long melody that’re ready for caroling. Of course, then there’s those signature Tori Kelly vocal acrobatics. 

Another thematic daughter of Carey’s “All I Want,” Kelly manages to pull it off without it sounding reductive. Similarly, she’s also done the only commendable cover of Carey’s classic – an acoustic rendition that was included as a bonus track on the deluxe edition of A Tori Kelly Christmas – as a tribute to Carey according to a 2020 interview. Only a top tier heiress could pull of that challenge.

3. JoJo, “December Baby”

The second December Baby on our list, Joanna “JoJo” Levesque lands just above her Sagitarrius sister Tori Kelly because when it comes to Christmas, JoJo has been down. Her first foray into the festive season was in 2004 – months after her debut album dropped, she performed at the annual Christmas in Washington special. Throughout the years, she’s done several live and recorded covers. She even recorded a masterful cover of Carey’s “Miss You Most (At Christmas Time)” in 2018, to “pay homage to the QUEEN Mariah Carey. Imagine being so dope that you single handedly own an entire holiday season!!!?! Her voice and writing has enchanted and inspired me since I was a little girl.” JoJo’s faithful rendition was emotive and expertly executed. 

In 2020, like Tori Kelly, she dropped her first full-length Christmas album, “December Baby.” Of the original tracks, the title track is the most upbeat and festive, a younger, more groovy sibling of “All I Want.” Though another original, “Wishlist” with PJ Morton, is actually the superior song – and a sibling to “Miss You Most” – I wanted to keep this playlist on the happier side. The infectious “December Baby” is an excellent entry into the Christmas canon that’ll have you grooving all December long.

2. Kelly Clarkson, “Christmas Eve”

Of all of the Princesses on this list, nobody is working harder or more actively to secure her place as Christmas royalty than Kelly Clarkson. Having released two Christmas albums and entered the top 10 of the Billboard Hot 100 this week with her first original, “Underneath the Tree,” Clarkson has made a name for herself in the holiday genre. While that song is her most well-known and fits the cookie-cutter mold of what’s expected of an uptempo, pop Christmas song, my favorite Clarkson uptempo original is “Christmas Eve.”

Originally released as a standalone single in 2017, “Christmas Eve” ditches the romantic trope, popularized by “All I Want” and later emulated in Clarkson’s own “Underneath the Tree,” and instead celebrates the holiday itself. Clarkson delivers it superbly, lyrically, vocally, and production-wise. It’s high-energy and festive to the max. Penned by Clarkson and her musical director Jason Halbert, it shows that she has a knack writing for this sort of song. The only thing keeping Clarkson from the top of my list is that it does feel like she’s going almost too hard to earn her crown, rather than let it gracefully come to her. I respect the hustle, but nostalgia takes time. In the case of “Underneath the Tree,” it had a ten-year crawl to the top 10. It’s too bad that song is too cookie-cutter to be truly magical.

1. Britney Spears, “My Only Wish (This Year)”

On the polar opposite end of the spectrum is the Princess of Pop, Britney Spears, who reigns this list. My favorite Christmas original, out of all the songs by all of Mariah’s daughters, is her only holiday offering: “My Only Wish (This Year).” Unlike Clarkson, Spears has ignored the song’s existence since its release in 2000. There are no live performances, no music videos, and Spears doesn’t do anything to promote it during the holidays. In 2020, her label issued a vinyl single, and it was featured in the 2021 Netflix film, “Single All the Way.”

Released in 2000, just six years after Carey’s “All I Want,” it is perhaps the first to emulate its stylistic sensibilities. Perhaps being the first is why it’s also done the best. It’s Britney at her peak: pop perfection. She also delivers one of her best, most genuine vocal performances. Overall, what makes the song so good is that it’s so innocent. She was a young, new, but hugely successful star hungry to give her all to every song she sang. At the same time, she wasn’t trying to lay down the next Christmas classic, land a hit single, or become the Queen of Christmas. That expectation wasn’t there in 2000. She just had a damn good time, and made a damn good song. Just like Mariah Carey did in 1994, with “All I Want for Christmas is You.” But Britney if you hear me… it’s time to claim your crown.

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Listen to 97 Tracks: Sounds of Christmas

97 Minutes of Christmas Playlists

Volume 1, curated by John

Volume 2, curated by Vincent:

Volume 3, curated by Jordan

Volume 4, curated by Mario

Volume 5, curated Andrew

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In all its cheery glory, that 4-minute-long song has unequivocally become the starting point for season’s greetings. But unlike Carey’s coveted holiday anthem, a darker side to the most wonderful time of the year looms over the heads of many who are in desperate need of some yuletide spirit. A side that is, in fact, the complete opposite of the star’s jubilant number-one hit, and best voiced by another cut from the Mariah Carey Christmas catalog, “Miss You Most (At Christmas Time).”

“Miss You Most” serves as one of the three tracks written and performed by the songstress from her first holiday album, Merry Christmas. A stark contrast from the jingling grandeur that decorates “All I Want For Christmas Is You” from start to finish, “Miss You Most” is a lot less merry and bright, and a lot more teary and dim. As Carey’s voice soars over a quiet, piano-driven backdrop, the song’s agonizing lyrics are a painful reminder of how the season of merriment could also be the most devastating when there’s no one to share it with. “Every other season / Comes along and I’m alright / But then I miss you most at Christmas time,” she sings. Be it a lost love, a former friend, or even death, “Miss You Most” carries the painful sentiments to these kinds of adversities that so many are forced to face in the midst of gift giving and tree trimming – regardless of how much of it they try to avoid. In a 2019 interview, Carey opened up about the song during a Q&A session in support of the 25^th anniversary of Merry Christmas. “People tell me it’s a really, brutally sad song,” she said. “Some people get depressed around the holidays, and I totally understand that, that’s why there has to be something for everyone.”

Despite not joining the ranks of becoming yet another holiday classic, Mariah Carey fans have continuously shown “Miss You Most” some much needed love with each passing Christmas. And, even though we’ve never gotten a full live performance of the song by the chanteuse herself (except for a tiny excerpt in 2018), the Christmas ballad has begun to trickle into musical memory in recent years, having been covered by singer-songwriter JoJo and even comedian Billy Eichner on “The Late Late Show” last year. But this isn’t enough for Carey’s army of #lambs, who await and pray that each coming holiday season will be the year that “Miss You Most” earns a spot in any of the star’s seasonal projects. Now, that would really make all of our wishes come true.

The post “Miss You Most,” Mariah Carey’s Searing Seasonal Offering appeared first on THE 97.

It would be more fitting to call Snowflakes a holiday album, or rather, a seasonal/winter album because, except a few Christmas references here and there, it’s more of a typical Toni Braxton with some holiday input.

The album starts with the dramatic bells and strings intro of “Holiday Celebrate,” a midtempo R&B number co-written by Toni’s sister Tamar (who also sings the background vocals prominently) about celebrating the holidays with a loved one and all the joys that come with it.

Miss Toni then pairs up with Shaggy for a holiday escape to Jamaica on the notes of the tropical-sounding “Christmas in Jamaica.” The guitar-laced bop bears the signature sensual Toni Braxton vocals, which set the tone for the album throughout.

“Snowflakes of Love” brings us back to more arctic temperatures and its romantic Jazz vibe recalling the great cinematic Christmas classics from the 1940s such as “Winter Wonderland.” The Jazz continues with a brilliant rendition of Vince Guaraldi’s “Christmas Time Is Here” from A Charlie Brown Christmas.

By the middle of the album we’re back into Toni’s territory with “Santa Please…” a sensual plead for a romantic getaway and “This Time Next Year” which enlists Babyface on a heartbreaking ballad with the flawless vocals we’re used to hearing on Miss Braxton’s bombastic ballads.

After a cozy rendition of “The Christmas Song,” the album closes with a new orchestral version of “Snowflakes of Love” and a Trackmasters remix of “Christmas in Jamaica” to spice things up even further with a harder beat.

Overall Snowflakes is a coherent album if you like the sultry and lush vibes Toni is known to offer. The original songs are strong, but they lack the Christmas mood and are more of Toni Braxton songs with a hint of cheer. Still a recommended listen!

Listen to Snowflakes by Toni Braxton

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First released on her second Christmas album, 2010’s Merry Christmas II You, “Christmas Time is in the Air Again” is simply perfection. Composed by a pair who are independently legendary, together, Mariah Carey and Marc Shaiman literally crafted up magic.

The exquisitely orchestrated ballad is has that classic, timeless feel that one would expect to hear from a vintage Christmas song. Lyrically, Mariah expertly weaves ornaments of Christmas into a relatable love story. The song is structured into four verses, with no real hook — just the repetition of the song’s title. Really, each verse is like a hook itself, the way Mariah has skillfully structured it. Throughout the four verses, she mentions Christmas chimes and cheer, evergreens that “sparkle with lights,” falling “like the snow, so deep in love,” occupied mistletoe, and the memories that come along with it all. Even Christmas icons Mr. Grinch (who “can’t resist warming up”) and Ebenezer Scrooge (who “makes a Christmas wish for a honey to hold”) are mentioned.

Melodically and vocally, Mariah delivers on both fronts with a melody that sticks and vocals that warms the soul. There is no reason this song should not be perched among the most beloved Christmas songs of all time. To her credit, Ms. Carey has certainly done her due diligence in promoting the song throughout the years. Let’s go back in time, shall we (with the Ghost of Christmas Past)?

“Christmas Time is in the Air Again”
Live Through the Years

On her ABC Christmas special in 2010:

At the Rockefeller Center Tree Lighting in 2012:

At Michael Buble’s Christmas Special in 2013:

At the Beacon Theatre “All I Want For Christmas is You” residency, 2014-18:

With Babyface, at Mariah Carey’s Merriest Christmas special, 2015:

On The Late Late Show, in 2019:

In Mariah Carey’s Magical Christmas special, 2020:

The post Mariah Carey’s “Christmas Time is In the Air Again” Through the Years appeared first on THE 97.

A literal December Baby herself, JoJo recorded her first Christmas song in 2018 when she covered Mariah Carey’s “Miss You Most (At Christmas Time).” Her gorgeous homage earned her praise from the Queen of Christmas herself.  The following year, she covered yet another classic: Nat King Cole’s “The Christmas Song.” Seemingly, this foray into Christmas music inspired JoJo to record a Christmas album in 2020.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f8-jPJMJnZU

Consisting of 5 original songs, 4 covers, and 4 “caroling” interludes, December Baby clocks in at just 28 minutes. Indeed, it is short, but well worth the listen. Let JoJo’s modern Christmas masterpiece be the soundtrack to all your holiday jam sessions.

December Baby, the originals

The bulk of the album consists of new cuts, all of which were co-written by JoJo alongside friends-and-collaborators Brian Wiggans and Austin Brown (yes, of the Jackson family). The album’s title track is a standout and my personal favorite. On “December Baby,” JoJo gives a fresh spin on the Christmas love song. While its theme is not unlike that of Mariah Carey’s “All I Want For Christmas Is You” that made such songs all the rage, musically, “December Baby” is fresh and modern sounding. Yes, it’s got some sleigh bells and other festive sounds sprinkled about the track, but mostly, it’s an R&B groove that has all the Christmas “warm and cozies” without sounding reductive.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aj8OPVTvJ7M 

Another standout among the originals is “Wishlist,” a duet with PJ Morton, which was helmed by the same trio (JoJo, Brown and Wiggins), alongside PJ Morton, Billy Steinberg, and Josh Alexander. “Wishlist” is one of those gut wrenching Christmas ballads about love and loss that surely hits home for many. It is a beautiful song, and most definitely a tear jerker. The soulful piano ballad certainly could become a modern classic if the duo plays their cards right!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZlAayK06ofY

It ain’t all broken hearts and tears, though. There’s also some grown-and-sexy Christmas moments on December Baby. A pair of ‘em, in fact: “Wrap Me Up,” and “Coming Home.” On these tracks, JoJo straddles the line of “naughty or nice,” serving up two jams that are sure to help set the mood at Christmastime. Meanwhile, on “North Pole,” JoJo delivers what sounds like it could be the toy factory’s theme song. It’s haunting, yet a bop, sort of serving the same feels as “Carol of the Bells.” Except, instead of ballerinas pirouetting, this track might inspire some light twerking instead.

December Baby, the covers and carols

For the covers, JoJo keeps it super classic with her picks, and makes every moment a soulful one. Her take on “The Christmas Song” is a modern, R&B inspired take on the classic that still manages to be faithful and respectful of the original. Jo’s signature vocals elevate this track and all the covers she takes on: “Noelle” (her middle name), “Silent Night,” and “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas” are all gorgeous, as well.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0CYdYsvCULA  

Between tracks, JoJo gives us snippets of some other Christmas carols as she pretends to be out caroling door to door. “We Wish You a Merry Christmas,” “What Child Is This,” “Deck the Halls,” and “O Come All Ye Faithful” are all featured in this manner. They’re quick but endearing little additions to the album.

December Baby, what’s next?

The great thing about Christmas albums is that they can be revisited year after year. JoJo’s first endeavor into the genre proves that she certainly should not stop now. Her one of a kind voice, creative originals, and refreshing takes on the classics are undeniably a sleighing success. In the years to come, I would love to hear more festive moments from the December Baby. Until then…

Listen to December Baby by JoJo

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Over the course of her career, the pop diva has made it clear just how important the Christmas season is to her. After several of her childhood Christmases were foiled in the hands of her “dysfunctional” family (as noted in her 2020 memoir, The Meaning of Mariah Carey), Carey has since made it a point to celebrate every Christmas as nothing but merry and bright. This included releasing not one, but four holiday albums, a yearly trip to the snowy slopes of Aspen, Christmas tours, Apple TV+ specials, a children’s book and accompanying film, merchandise, and this year’s “Mariah Menu” designed for McDonald’s. Christmas really is that big a deal for the superstar. And from these festivities, her fans have not only been gifted with many exquisite covers of holiday classics, like “O Holy Night” and “Christmas (Baby Please Come Home),” but also a handful of her own masterfully crafted seasonal gems – other than that one – written and performed by the chanteuse herself. “When Christmas Comes” is one of those gems.

Taken from the hitmaker’s second holiday album, 2010’s Merry Christmas II You, “When Christmas Comes” was written and produced by Carey and James Poyser. The R&B track features Carey’s unmissable, velvet-coated voice, layered over a heavy dose of soul, trumpets, and live instrumentation. Unlike many, many modern-day Christmas songs, “When Christmas Comes” takes you right back in time to days of holidays past, thanks to its classical, big band ensemble. Since its release, it has been performed on all of Carey’s subsequent holiday tours, as well as the star’s 2010 ABC Christmas Special – Mariah Carey: Merry Christmas to You. Though, a voice like Mariah Carey’s needs no assistance, singer-songwriter John Legend skated his way onto the track’s single release version. With two of the biggest voices in R&B coming together to spread some holiday cheer, it’s almost impossible to think of a better way to get into the Christmas spirit – especially after their short but sweet “Jingle Bells” addition right before the song’s climactic ending.

Throughout the song, Carey is certain that the “gift of love” will help save the Christmas season. “But baby, if you spread love / Someday it might be enough / To heal each other one by one,” she croons. The track is so smooth that it’s practically unfitting to not have a cup of hot cocoa (or a glass of Carey’s new Black Irish cream liqueur) in your hands, while you sit back and indulge in all its merriment. And, having a gentle snowfall outside your window, amidst twinkling tree lights, will most definitely have you listening to this song on repeat until the day Christmas finally does come.

The post “When Christmas Comes” Cements Mariah Carey’s Seasonal Crown appeared first on THE 97.

Actually, the group’s foray into Christmas music began in 2000 with the recording of two original tracks. The group lent their talents to a second curated Christmas album by Rosie O’Donnell (yes, you read that right; what a time, chyle) via the song “Spread a Little Love on Christmas Day.” On a special edition rerelease of their sophomore album The Writing’s on the Wall, they also included what would go on to be the title track and lead single of their Christmas album, “8 Days of Christmas.” Beyoncé co-wrote and co-produced both original songs. Though they may sound a bit dated (especially with the Rosie shout out on “Spread a Little Love”), they are both undeniable bops, and the basis upon which the idea for the a Destiny’s Child Christmas album was born.

It’s no surprise that the girls’ label wanted them to do a Christmas album: they were signed to Columbia Records, which was also home to Celine Dion and Mariah Carey (until 2001), whose Christmas albums were monster successes in the 90s. Like Mariah and Celine when they released theirs, Destiny’s Child were at their peak stardom, so what better time to make their mark on the holiday music landscape? Beyoncé, Kelly and Michelle somehow found time in their busy schedules to record covers of a handful of Christmas standards, but also craft a few new tracks, as well.

I briefly chatted with Michelle, not for a formal interview, but just to see if she had any anecdotes to share about her memories attached to 8 Days of Christmas. She recalled that, “It was a very busy time! We were touring and having to find an hour here and there to record!” That certainly tracks; as a fan then and now, I remember being surprised when they announced the Christmas album. My reaction was like, “when did y’all have time to do this?!” Nevertheless, I was perched at home on Halloween at 11 years old, not trick-or-treating, but bopping to Christmas music instead. Anyway, Michelle also hilariously recounted that there might have been some “sinus infections and tons of congestion on a few of the songs!” If so, we would have never known, because the vocals on 8 Days of Christmas are one of its highlights.

Upon its release, reviewers weren’t exactly kind to the trio’s take on Christmas. In fact, I remember writing a scathing response to one Tracy E. Hopkins (I still remember her name to this day) for the way she dragged the album in her Rolling Stone review. I was eleven years old at the time, so surely that was not my finest nor most mature piece of writing. Twenty years later, I can understand why critics didn’t quite get the album. In 2001, most Christmas music adhered to the notion that it should be able fit in with the classics. While that remains true today for the most part (especially if you want your own perennial hit like Mariah Carey’s), things have evolved a bit. Dare I say, Destiny’s Child made it cool to make Christmas music that sounds more modern. They took their early 2000s sound, tossed in some sleigh bells and tidings of comfort and joy, and said “Merry Christmas, from Destiny’s Chiiiild!” The ladies harnessed their “girl power” and channeled it into a festive moment that, 20 years later, still has fans saying, “yes it feels like Christmas!”. Plus, the new girls since have definitely taken note: from Ariana Grande’s Christmas and Chill, to JoJo’s December Baby, it’s clear there is a market for more modern sounding Christmas music. It’s time to embrace the modern Christmas bop, people; give Phil Spector’s wall of sound a rest.

Twenty years have passed since Destiny’s Child released 8 Days of Christmas, and while the album might not sound like what most consider to be “classic” or “timeless” Christmas music, it gave us several gems and holds a special place in my heart. Surely, any Destiny’s Child fan must feel the same. In celebration of the album, I have ranked all 14 tracks: the 12 from the original release, plus its two 2005 bonus tracks.

8 Days of Christmas, Ranked

14. Little Drummer Boy (featuring Solange)

“Little Drummer Boy” is one Christmas song that I just do not like, and not even my favorite artist Destiny’s Child can save it here. Still, it was cute to hear a young Solange again join the trio for this Christmas moment. Four years later, she would pen an original Christmas song for the girls. More on that one further up the list.

13. Platinum Bells

A spin on the carol “Silver Bells,” DC3’s “Platinum Bells” is more like an interlude on the album. It’s cute and fun, but clocking in at 90 seconds in length, it doesn’t quite stack up to the rest of the songs.

12. Silent Night (Beyoncé’s solo)

I might get dragged for this, but I hope the Hive can find it in their hearts to chill this holiday season. I was in the BeyHive before there was a Hive, so let’s not okay?! “Silent Night” has never been my favorite Christmas song… I’ve always found it kind of boring, to be frank. Yes, it’s a beautiful song and I can respect it as such, and most talented vocalists tackle it gorgeously, but I can never really get into it. Maybe once per season, maybe during a live performance, but, otherwise… I usually skip it. Beyoncé serves up some vocal acrobatics on her version, as expected, though at times it does feel like a bit too much.

11. Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer

The ladies’ rendition of “Rudolph” ranks this low not necessarily because I don’t love their version, but I just don’t really adore this song in particular. Of course, it’s a classic and conjures up childhood memories, but it’s still a children’s song at its core, so I listen to it sparingly. That being said, they certainly sound great here. Their version was not released in 2001, though. It sounds as though it was recorded then (I asked Michelle, she couldn’t remember), but it wasn’t released until 2005. They promoted it with an adorable claymation video that acted as a cross promotion for the 2005 DVD rerelease of the classic 1964 animation film. The song was also added to 8 Days of Christmas as a bonus track for its 2005 rerelease on DualDisc (surely the kids have NO clue what that is!).

10. White Christmas

Though it might be of the shortest Christmas carols, “White Christmas” is also one of the most beloved. Destiny’s Child takes it on similar to how they later collaborated on Michelle’s “Say Yes” – they each sang the carol through once, putting their individual vocal spins on it on each go-round, and layering it up with their signature harmonies. They sound great doing so, of course, but it sort of leaves us begging for more. This might’ve been another moment to go the “medley” route, perhaps mixing it in with “Winter Wonderland” or “Let It Snow,” to make the moment last a bit longer.

9. Do You Hear What I Hear? (Kelly’s solo)

For her solo track, Kelly chose to take on a religious song as well. Modeled after Whitney Houston’s definitive version of the classic, Kelly’s rendition of “Do You Heart What I Hear?” is simply beautiful. Kelly has made it well known that she has always been a huge Whitney fan, so it is no surprise that she was heavily inspired by Ms. Houston for this cover. Had she differentiated her version a bit more, it might rank higher here. Still, don’t let its placement here take away from the fact that the Kelly’s version is well worth a listen and placement on your Christmas playlists!

8. This Christmas

The trio takes on Donny Hathaway’s classic “This Christmas,” giving it an early 2000s modern twist musically, with a vocal arrangement that is mostly faithful to the original. The fact that it’s a trio singing the song, each taking their own verse, helps to differentiate the Destiny’s Child version from the many other covers (most good, some bad) that exist of this classic.

7. A “DC” Christmas Medley

As the title suggests, this is a medley of Christmas classics, with a Destiny’s Child spin. The trio sleighs through bits of several holiday favorites: “Jingle Bells,” “Frosty the Snowman,” “Holly Jolly Christmas,” “Deck the Halls,” and “Here Comes Santa Claus,” with “Santa Claus Is Comin’ to Town” functioning as the song’s hook. It’s a clever way to quickly bop through these short little classics, and works especially well as a group moment, which each of the ladies leading a carol of their own.

6. Home For the Holidays

“Home From the Holidays” is a song recorded for a Walmart ad campaign in 2005, and was included on a Walmart-exclusive edition of the album. Co-written and co-produced by Beyoncé’s sister Solange, “Home For the Holidays” is yet another Christmas jam by the trio. Truly, its beat slaps, and is good enough to be a non-Christmas song. However, its lyrics about going “home for the holidays” to celebrate with family make it a bop fit for the holidays. If it was a little more Christmas-y, musically, it’d likely rank higher on my list. Still, I love the song, and I am so glad that it was finally uploaded to streaming this year!

5. O’ Holy Night (Michelle’s solo)

Of course, Michelle Williams reminds us of the true reason for the season with her solo number, a gorgeous cover of the classic hymn, “O’ Holy Night.” Produced by her brother Erron Williams, Michelle’s rendition is a fresh, soothing reimagining of the heavenly hymn. The song was actually the first time fans ever got to hear Michelle solo track. She masterfully glides through the lead vocals, and the layered background vocals. Michelle’s version remains one of my favorite takes on “O’ Holy Night.”

4. 8 Days of Christmas

With its simple refrain of “Doesn’t it feel like Christmas? Yes, it feels like Christmas!” this song is one that never fails to conjure up the Christmas spirit within. Sure, it’s one of those love songs with a little Christmas cheer sprinkled on top. Some might call the song “superficial” because its verses are about all of the gifts “mybabygaytame” but let’s remember, the song is clearly inspired by “12 Days of Christmas,” which is just the same. Ultimately, the song is a fun, festive romp that is the perfect combination of early 2000s pop and cheer-full Christmas vibes. Also, you’ve gotta love the Tina Knowles Lawson designed Sexy Santa outfits they wore during the promo tour.

3. Spread a Little Love on Christmas Day

“It’s beautiful outside and the wind is whistling; I look outside my window as I see my neighbor’s Christmas tree; the snow is falling, my spirit’s feeling happy, I’m feeling even better ’cause I got my family next to me,” Beyoncé sings to open Destiny’s Child’s first-ever Christmas song. It’s a sentiment that is repeated in countless Christmas songs, and one that never fails to lift spirits. On “Spread a Little Love on Christmas Day,” the girls express gratitude for their blessings and, as the title suggests, spread love to all of their listeners, no matter where in the world they may be. Musically, the song sounds like it could’ve fit in on Survivor, but lyrically, there’s no mistaking that the song is filled with Christmas cheer. For that reason, it has always been one of my favorites.

2. Opera of the Bells

Certainly the best cover on the album, Destiny’s Child’s version of “Carol of the Bells” is aptly retitled “Opera of the Bells.” This a cappella moment finds the trio united in harmony, and impeccably so. As with most versions of this classic carol, DC3’s version is equally haunting and powerful. It’d truly be something to hear Beyoncé, Michelle and Kelly perform this one today; their voices have only improved over the years, and no doubt they would slay this, effortlessly. The last time they performed it live was in 2004.

1. Winter Paradise

This has always been my favorite song on the album. It’s simple, yet perfectly heartwarming. Co-penned and co-produced by Beyoncé, this DC3 original is underrated and deserving of its flowers. I wish it had been a single so that it could have received more shine. Lyrically, it hits all the Christmas points and serves up all the Christmas warm and fuzzies. I also love the vocal arrangements here; Michelle, Kelly and Beyoncé all have equal opportunities to shine.

Listen to Destiny’s Child’s 8 Days of Christmas

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Much has been said about the mythical star that shone bright on Christmas Eve and guided men to worship Jesus (the animals characters in the movie, in this instance), but rarely it is mentioned in Christmas songs. Like a prophet Mariah tells of the Star as a guiding light to redemption, an inner voice to listen to when no one will believe in you, turning it into an inspirational moment like only she can.

Mariah’s twins Roc & Roe and (her longtime background singer, and friend) MaryAnn Tatum’s son Jaden provide the backing vocals for the refrain and have accompanied Mariah on stage during live performances at her Christmas shows.

The song, just like the movie, is clearly aimed at its core audience, children. However, there’s always something magical about the pairing of Mariah and Christmas that captures listeners of all ages.

“The Star” was nominated for Best Original Song at the 75th Golden Globes.

Listen to “The Star” by Mariah Carey

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