SmithĪn underrated maestro whose piano and synthesizer compositions are consistently emotional and triumphant. 'Gloria (Angels We Have Heard on High),' Michael W. Though usually best appreciated in hushed versions, the glorious vocalizing of this trio captivates. 'Silent Night,' Kelly Clarkson, Reba McEntire, Trisha Yearwood Oft-maligned now, but there can be no denying the incredible feat Bob Geldof executed to corral some of the U.K.’s finest – from Bono to Bowie, Duran Duran to George Michael – all in the name of charity. 'Happy X-mas (War is Over),' John Lennon and Yoko Ono and The Plastic Ono BandĪn anti-war song that is devoid of typical holiday sentimentality, the swooping anthem has nonetheless become an annual necessity. The darling vocals of Michael Jackson and his brothers and the unfettered glee in the 1970 arrangement are undiminished.Ĭonsidered controversial in 1953. 'I Saw Mommy Kissing Santa Claus,' The Jackson 5 If you don’t melt at Fogelberg’s delicately rendered line, “as I turned to make my way back home, the snow…turned into rain,” then we’re very sorry you are not in possession of a heart. Written by David Foster and Linda Thompson-Jenner, the sweet ballad is a vital gut check every holiday season. This sinewy rock version was recorded by the band in 1975 at a show in New York and remains a live favorite. 'Santa Claus is Comin’ to Town,' Bruce Springsteen and The E Street Band 'Celebrate Me Home,' Kenny LogginsĪ song for any season, really, with its sentiment of longing to be somewhere familiar. 'Wonderful Christmastime,' Paul McCartneyįilled with a sprightly chorus and a typically melodic bass line, this solo hit recorded during McCartney’s sessions for his “McCartney II” album exemplifies his own consistent cheer. That soaring voice and that impeccable delivery that always sounded effortless equate to a worthy keepsake of Houston’s potency.