To combat the same versions of the same Christmas songs played to no end, Marquee has assembled a list of holiday alternatives; from the bitter, to the soulful, to the heartbreaking, to the traditionally joyful this playlist will put you in the holiday spirit in a new way.
1. “White Christmas”— Otis Redding
Perhaps the greatest Christmas song. Otis gets the most out of each. and. every. word. Also, at the end it sounds like he’s belting “mayonnaise! mayonnaise!” It’s great.
2. “White Winter Hymnal”—Fleet Foxes
A thoroughly pleasant song—like a snowflake on your tongue.
3. “Christmas in Prison”— John Prine
Written as a letter from a prisoner during the holidays, this song has our favorite Christmas lyrics. Prine describes snow falling on the prison yard in a way that manages to be unsentimental, a little funny and sad in the way only he can.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jj-Vff5HPhc
4. “What Christmas Means to Me”— Stevie Wonder
Just try not to get a little happier listening to this.
5. “Pretty Paper” — Roy Orbison
Sometimes Christmas songs are sad. And who better to sing a sad song than Roy Orbison?
6. “Christmas Card from a Hooker in Minneapolis”— Tom Waits
And sometimes Christmas songs are really, really sad. Tom Waits is a Christmas downer in the most beautiful, poignant way.
7. “Christmas Treat”— Julian Casablancas
The lead singer of The Stroke’s takes on a song that originated as a sketch on SNL making for a solid listen any day.
8. “Happy Hanukkah”— Matisyahu
A surprisingly catchy ode to the holiday from everyone’s favorite Orthodox Jewish reggae rapper.
9. “Christmas (Baby, Please Come Home)” — Darlene Love
This song is a Christmas gift from producer Phil Spector’s gorgeous wall of sound and Darlene Love’s infectious vocals.
10. “Auld Lang Syne” — Andrew Bird
This take on the New Year’s Eve classic gives the song new life and levity. Andrew Bird’s version will help you welcome 2014 on a bright note.
11. “Fairytale of New York” — The Pogues
A Christmas scene in New York complete with the Pogues rough edges and thick Irish accents, this song manages to be lewd, deeply sad and joyful at the same time.
12. “Please Daddy (Don’t Get Drunk This Christmas)— The Decemberists
Another sad Christmas story disguised as a jaunty holiday sing-a-long.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=19uFC3KqR8M
13. “Getting Ready For Christmas” — Paul Simon
A creative take on the excitement for Christmas that makes for a nice mix up from the classics.
14. “Everyday Will be Like a Holiday” — William Bell
Soul is one of the best genres for Christmas songs. It can be emotional and festive without coming off cheesy and this William Bell tune is one of the best there is.