Unwrapping Joy: Office Favourites for the Ultimate Christmas Playlist

Christmas is once again upon us! And is there anything that gets people into the Christmas spirit more than Christmas music? Every year we all dust off the old classics, but everyone has their favourites that always get them into that Christmas spirit which is why I surveyed the office for everyone's favourite Christmas songs!

Paul:

Paul’s favourite Christmas Song is the 1978 Christmas Hit “Christmas Wrapping” by The Waitresses. "Christmas Wrapping" by the Waitresses is a holiday song that originated from a request by their record label, Ze Records, for a Christmas record. Written by Chris Butler, the guitarist and songwriter, the song features a sarcastic and tongue-in-cheek attitude toward Christmas. The lyrics tell the story of two people meeting during the holiday season, with humorous references to small turkeys and supermarket chains. Despite initial reluctance, the song became a surprise hit, showcasing a mix of influences from the New York music scene, including elements of rap and funk. The catchy and humorous nature of "Christmas Wrapping" has made it a memorable and enduring holiday classic.

Ellie:

"Merry Christmas Everyone” is Ellie’s favourite Christmas song.

"Merry Christmas Everyone" is a festive and upbeat Christmas song performed by Shakin' Stevens. Written by Bob Heatlie and produced by Dave Edmunds, it was initially meant for release in 1984 but was delayed a year to avoid competing with other high-profile Christmas releases. The song's music video, filmed in Sweden, features a young girl named Samantha visiting 'Santaworld' and meeting Shakin' Stevens. The song topped the UK charts in 1985, becoming Shakin' Stevens' fourth number-one hit. With its catchy tune and holiday spirit, "Merry Christmas Everyone" remains a beloved classic and a staple in Christmas music playlists.

Chloe:

A much more modern song, Chloe’s favourite is Arianna Grande’s “Santa Tell Me”.

"Santa Tell Me" by Ariana Grande is a Christmas song where the singer seeks guidance from Santa Claus regarding matters of the heart. She expresses a wish not to fall in love hastily and asks for assurance that the romantic relationship will endure. The song is thought to reflect Ariana Grande's personal experiences, particularly her hesitation about entering a new relationship with rapper Big Sean shortly after ending her previous one with YouTuber Jai Brooks. The lyrics convey a sense of caution and a desire for certainty in matters of love during the holiday season.

Clynton:

Clynton’s favourite Christmas song is the 1980 hit “Stop The Cavalry” by Jona Lewie. "Stop The Cavalry" by Jona Lewie originally had no Christmas theme, focusing on soldiers in the Crimean War and later expanded to encompass the broader context of all wars, particularly World War I. Released in the summer, it topped the French charts as an anti-war song. The Christmas connection was added later, drawing on the historical significance of the Christmas truce during World War I. The song narrates a soldier's desire to be home for Christmas, emphasising the loneliness and harsh conditions faced on the front lines. Stiff Records recognized its potential as a Christmas hit and, in a festive transformation, incorporated a Salvation Army brass band playing kazoo parts and a tubular bell to enhance its Christmassy vibe. Despite reaching number 3 in the UK charts in 1980, the song faced tough competition from St Winifreds School Choir and John Lennon, securing its place in musical history as a beloved, albeit unconventional, Christmas classic.

Connor:

The Darkness’s “Christmas Time (Don't Let the Bells End)” is what takes Connor’s favourite Christmas Song spot. "Christmas Time (Don't Let the Bells End)" by The Darkness is a playful departure from traditional Christmas songs, featuring Justin Hawkins' signature falsettos and a humorous tone consistent with the band's style. The lyrics incorporate typical festive references, including Santa Claus and bells, while maintaining a parody element. The backing vocals are provided by a school choir from Haberdashers' Aske's Hatcham College in New Cross, London, with ties to the band members' family history. The song's humour extends to a clever double entendre in the line 'Bells End' and 'Ring in peace,' injecting a cheeky and irreverent twist into the Christmas theme. Overall, The Darkness combines traditional holiday elements with their unique humour and musical flair in this unconventional Christmas song.