Best New Christmas Albums of 2024
Ho Ho Ho and welcome to another exciting edition of my yearly Best NEW Christmas Albums review! There’s a lot to unpack this year. I’ve listened to over 70 albums, totaling almost 800 songs. That’s almost 45 hours of new Christmas music! Like usual there’s some real good things happening this year, aaaaand some real bad things. I’ve done all the work for you so you can skip all the crap, and go straight to the good stuff. You will not find a more complete list of new Christmas albums, nor will you find a more unbiased review of them anywhere online. I know because I’ve looked. I look every year because surely there’s someone out there doing this better than me, right? Welp, there isn’t. There’s a few others out there, but none that have listened to ALL the albums, tell you which ones to skip, AND provide you with multiple playlists depending on your genre preference for your listening pleasure. You won’t even find a full accurate playlist on Spotify, except for mine. Again, I’ve checked. Someday someone’s going to pay me for this, but for now I’m just doing it because I’m completely f*cking crazy. So let’s get to it!
I think 2021 spoiled us. Back when everyone was stuck in their homes quarantining, artists had nothing to do, so a ton of them went into the studio and recorded Christmas albums. Since then the list of big stars to release albums each year has dwindled a bit. This year is no different, but there’s still some great things to check out from some well known names, and some not so well known names. This year we have new music from Brett Eldredge, Little Big Town, Jennifer Hudson, Dan + Shay, Ben Folds, Jimmy Fallon, Tower of Power, Jason and Travis Kelce, Jordan Sparks, Ruben Studdard, Steve Perry, The Jonas Brothers’ dad (how random, right?), Clay Aiken and many many more. This was also an unusually good year for new ORIGINAL Christmas music, so if you’re the type of person who is sick and tired of the same old Christmas songs, then you’re probably not even reading this. But in case you are, I have some good news for you later.
But first, let’s review what in my opinion, makes a “good” Christmas album. In order for any new Christmas song or album to be worthy it must meet at least 1 of the following 3 criteria:
1. It’s fun
2. It’s Sentimental
3. Nostalgic
Quick note for new readers: Everything below is clickable. The album cover will take you to the full album on Spotify. Song titles will take you to the individual song on YouTube. Then the Spotify and Apple Music Playlists are at the end. Here we go!
Jennifer Hudson – The Gift of Love
There’s no questioning the talent of Jennifer Hudson. She’s literally an EGOT winner. But this album was so exhausting. I don’t mind a little bit of drama, but this entire album is just unbelievably over the top dramatic. For example, check out this ridiculous Jingle Bells. Jennifer, it’s Jingle Bells. Save the drama for O Holy Night. That being said, there’s still a couple worth checking out. Specifically this very interesting version of Carol of the Bells, and this much better and funkier arrangement of Jingle Bells.
Ben Folds – Sleigher
This was disappointing. This is the first of many new original Christmas albums this year, and unfortunately this one missed the mark. If you love Ben Folds, then you’ll probably like it, but if you’re just a casual fan, you can skip this one. Not a single song grabbed me.
Kevin Jonas Sr – Ready Set Glow
Yes, this is Kevin Jonas Sr…the father to the Jonas Brothers. This isn’t a bad album…but..most of it sounds like your friends’ dad who knows how to sing got himself a karaoke machine and set it up in the living room on Christmas Eve. It has some charm to it in that very specific way, but…you can skip it. But if your curiosity gets the better of you and you want to check it out, then go with ChrisMess. It’s on there twice. Once just him, and then again at the end with some “friends.”
Gabby Barrett – Carols and Candlelight
I’ve never heard of Gabby before, but her voice is very well suited for Christmas songs, and reminds me a bit of Carrie Underwood. There’s a lot of good stuff on here, but if you’re only going to check out one song, make it be this hauntingly beautiful arrangement of O Come O Come Emmanuel. Go Tell It On The Mountain, which features for King & Country is also very cool, and her version of Grown Up Christmas List might be better than the original. I like this girl a lot.
Keith Harkin – a cosy Christmas
I don’t know who this guy is, but I absolutely LOVE his voice, especially with his Irish accent and the little bit of Irish flair sprinkled throughout. This is packaged as a Christmas album, but…that’s a bit of a stretch. There are only 4 actual Christmas songs on the album, but I can see the connection with the others. There’s not quite enough Christmas on here for me to put it on my best of list, but the album is so good on its own, it’s worth a mention. The cover of this album makes it look like it’s going to be a fun, silly album, when in fact it’s the exact opposite of that. This is a serious and intentional mostly acoustic album. It’s worth a listen, even after the Holidays. If you’re only going to listen to one song, make it be the Elvis cover of Can’t Help Falling in Love. It might be the best cover of that song I’ve ever heard. And if you like that one, then First of May, Raise Another Glass, Hallelujah, and River are also going to speak to you.
The Milk Carton Kids – Christmas in a Minor Key
I’ve been a fan of these guys for years. If you haven’t heard of them, think of them like a modern Simon & Garfunkel. A folk duo with intricate guitar accompaniment and lovely and impeccable harmonies. If you’re in a mellow mood, you’ll like this one. There’s not a bad song on here, but the ones I particularly liked were God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen, O Come All Ye Faithful, and What Child Is This.
Phil Wickham – Hallelujah! It’s Christmas
I’m not sure what it is about the cover of this album, but I think it wins the best cover award this year. Phil Wickham has a very pleasant voice. This is a very thoughtful album and it definitely hits on the “sentimental” requirement. My only complaint, though, is that there’s nothing fun on this album. We could use one of those here. If you like the more religious side of Christmas music, then this is the album for you. But even if you don’t, there’s still some things to check out here. Here We Come a-Caroling is a cool way to start an album. Don’t hit next until the harmonies start. It’s worth it. He also gives a fresh take on Deck The Halls, which is pretty cool, plus I love the piano mix (I’m a nerd, I know). A Cradle in Bethlehem is fantastic, and blending it in with O Holy Night works really well. My wife will very much like this one. Lastly, he puts new lyrics to O Christmas Tree, which is something I didn’t know we needed, but I’m glad he did.
Alright, let’s get to the top albums!
#5
Brett Eldredge – Merry Christmas (Welcome to the Family)
My first introduction to this guy was in 2021 when he won my best Christmas album of the year award. I was excited when I heard he was releasing another one this year and fully expected it to score high. What I didn’t expect was for it to be the first of many very good all original Christmas albums. Typically I’m not a fan of new original Christmas music, but this year for some reason, people came out swinging with originals. Brett Eldredge is one of them. If you’re sick of the same old Christmas songs, then this album is for you.
Favorite Tracks
Season of Lights and Wonder – One of the best original songs I heard this year.
Who Will You Be Kissing on New Years Eve – Nice duet with Ida Rose
Welcome to the Family (Reprise) – Reprise to the first track of Merry Christmas (Welcome to the Family). He talks about the different characters of his family, which I think most people will relate to, then pairs each one with a quick instrument solo. This song will make you smile.
#4
Dan + Shay – It’s Officially Christmas: The Double Album
It’s in the title. This is a double album. 10 classic Christmas songs, and 10 original Christmas songs. Man, these boys have been busy. You’ve heard me say it every year, but I still swear I’m not a country guy. I don’t like most country music. But, every year at Christmas time these country artists show up and do it right. Dan + Shay have definitely done right with this one. Some of the originals are a bit cheesy, but it’s the finest cheese that pairs well with wine.
Favorite Tracks
Santa Claus is Coming to Town – This is a fun blues version with good instrumental solos.
Let it Snow – Nothing fancy. Just nice harmonies and a tasty little piano solo
Parson Brown – Silly premise, but a very catchy song with a good groove
#3
A Philly Special Christmas Party
I will never understand how the Kelce brothers and their football friends consistently put out very solid Christmas music. They’ve been releasing singles the last few years, but we finally have a full Christmas album from them this year, and yep, it’s pretty great. I found myself shaking my head while listening to the album, just because they have no business being this good. I want nothing more than to have a Christmas party with these guys.
Favorite Tracks
Having a Party – Soulful swing tune with some tasty sax sprinkled in.
It’s Christmas Don’t Be Late – You know the Alvin & The Chipmunks version of this from way back in the day? Well here’s the Kelce version of it, and it’s great.
It’s Christmastime – This is impressive. Both Travis and Jason have really nice singing voices, and I don’t hear any obvious autotune, either. Add in Boyz II Men and this one is a perfect smooth jam Christmas song.
Loud Little Town – This is a duet with Jason Kelce and his wife, Kylie, who apparently can also sing?! It’s very sweet, and so is the music video. Get yourself someone who looks at you the way Jason and Kylie look at each other.
Parting Glass – An Irish a capella trio. Impressive.
#2
Home Free – Any Kind of Christmas
These guys are a country a capella group. In 2013 they won the 4th season of the NBC show The Sing-Off. Don’t worry, I had never heard of them either! Now, I realize the a capella genre is a pretty specific taste. It’s not for everyone. I don’t always love it, but I can appreciate super talent like the people in Pentatonix. Home Free is basically Pentatonix, but all male, and they’re impressively good. Also, they’re from Mankato, Minnesota!? This album hits all 3 of my requirements very hard. Fun. Sentimental. Nostalgic.
Favorite Tracks
Somewhere in My Memory (Intro) – This is a very cool arrangement, and how it plays right into the next track is great.
Santa Claus is Coming to Town – Track 2 that flows from track 1. Look, this isn’t for everyone, but these guys do it so well.
O Come, All Ye Faithful – Pentatonix who? A very thoughtful arrangement with of course flawless harmonies.
Let Me Come Home – I was not expecting the heartbreaking story in this song. I can’t relate, but I know people who can. Check this one out. Someone needs this.
The Greatest Gifts of All – Now THIS one I can relate to, and I bet you can, too. Growing up with Christmases not being the same as they were, and missing loved ones, and realizing a little too late what life’s greatest gifts really are. It’s a GREAT song.
#1
Jimmy Fallon – Holiday Seasoning
I assumed I would like this album, but I did not expect it to get the #1 spot at ALL. Let’s face it, the people that like Jimmy Fallon don’t like him for his amazing singing voice. He can sing, sure, but he’s not great. The autotune on his voice is a bit distracting at times, but the obvious fun he had while making this album with all of his famous friends more than makes up for it. It’s easy to forget how good of a writer Jimmy is. Skip the first song, though. It’s terrible. Everything else is great, and nothing but FUN.
Favorite Tracks
Holiday – A song this fun and this catchy has staying power, I think. With Jonas Brothers.
Hey Rudy – Rudolph has needed a new song for awhile. This one with The Roots slaps. Did I use that word right?
Wrap Me Up – Meghan Trainor released a Christmas album in 2020 that was awful. This song makes up for it. Great pop song.
You’ll Be There – Jimmy and Justin Timberlake, possibly the greatest bromance of all time. It’s hard to hate it. This is a groovy little reggae tune.
How You Know It’s Christmastime – Great lyrics on this song. Just Jimmy and a guitar and some autotune.
Chipmunks & Chestnuts. This is not a good song, but the absurdity of Jimmy’s voice had me laughing so hard. His stupid falsetto is just…perfect. Lolz
Just because an album didn’t make my list doesn’t mean there weren’t some very good things on it. There’s a decent amount of singles and EP’s that are worth a listen, too. We haven’t even talked about Amy Grant, Little Big Town, Kelly Clarkson, Tower of Power, Callista Clark, Jessica Vosk and a lot more that all had good things this year. I just don’t have the time to write about EVERYTHING. There’s also still going to be new albums and songs that trickle in these next few weeks, so just because my review is done, my work is not. As new things drop I’ll be listening and adding them to the proper playlists.
If you’re a yearly reader of my review and you’re not utilizing my playlists, you’re really missing out. I have one for everyone, no matter what your tastes are. Note: All playlists are best enjoyed in SHUFFLE MODE.
The Full Master List of New Christmas Songs
This is every single song I’ve listened to this year. It’s all the new stuff all in one place. There isn’t another playlist like this anywhere online. Trust me. You can find playlists that say they are the new Christmas songs of 2024, but they’re not. They’re either not complete, or they’re not accurate and have songs from other years. If you want 45+ hours of new Christmas music, whether it’s good or bad, this is the one. You’ll have to click the link and open it in Spotify to access the entire list. Apple Music users click here
Best of 2024 Christmas
If you only want the BEST of the new Christmas songs this year then this is the one for you. It contains all of the songs mentioned above, plus all the other good ones. You’ll have to click the link and open it in Spotify to access the entire list. Apple Music users click here
2024 Original Christmas
This was a surprisingly good year for original Christmas music. Every year people try, and every year there’s a lot of misses. Here’s every original Christmas song this year. You’ll have to click the link and open it in Spotify to access the entire list. Apple Music users click here
2024 Best Original Christmas Songs
Like I said, a lot of people try writing new Christmas songs, and they don’t always work. Here are only the BEST original songs from this year. Take it from a guy who typically does not like original Christmas songs, there’s some real good stuff in here. You’ll have to click the link and open it in Spotify to access the entire list. Apple Music users click here
2024 Instrumental Christmas
If you’re more of an instrumental music lover, then I’ve got you covered. Here are all the new instrumental Christmas songs for this year. You’ll have to click the link and open it in Spotify to access the entire list. Apple Music users click here
But wait, there’s more! I also have ongoing playlists that I add to each year.
Christmas by the Fireplace
This is the playlist for when the kids are in bed, and you’re relaxing on the couch with your significant other. The tree is lit, the fireplace is on, and there’s a glass of wine in your hand. This one is quickly becoming my favorite playlist. You’ll have to click the link and open it in Spotify to access the entire list. Apple Music users click here
Christmas Groove
This is the fun playlist for when you want to shake your butt a little. It’s funky groovy fresh takes of Christmas songs. Perfect for a Christmas party, or just wanting a little festive funky cheer while you’re cleaning the house. You’ll have to click the link and open it in Spotify to access the entire list. Apple Music users click here
Ultimate Christmas Playlist
This is it. The mack daddy of Christmas playlists. It’s the ULTIMATE playlist that includes all the classics you know and love from your childhood, plus all the new modern stuff from the last 5 decades, including my picks from this year and every other year. “Alexa, play my Ultimate Christmas Playlist on shuffle” is something that’s said a LOT in our house. You’ll have to click the link and open it in Spotify to access the entire list. Apple Music users click here
Merry Christmas to all, and to all a good night! See you next year.
