While getting ready for school one October morning, junior Bella Reyes caught herself humming the classic song “Jingle Bell Rock.” She marked the first play of her festive playlist as the first official day of the holiday season.
For many like Reyes, holiday music is the hallmark of a jolly and comforting time of year.
Sophomore Elijah Press explained that holiday songs are special because they often leave listeners feeling comfy, offering a taste of the holiday spirit.
“It has a different kind of cheer to it, especially like the Charlie Brown Christmas songs. Just a mellow, warm, nice theme,” Press said.
Reyes also observed that the festive genre of music has a cheerful aspect to it, getting her in the mood for celebrations during this time of year. She noted that holiday music is a way for her to connect with her mom and get in the spirit of the season.
“I like getting in the holiday cheer. My mom is also a really big fan of Christmas, so that’s something we bond on, and also it’s (holiday music) just all around during the season,” Reyes said.
English teacher Elizabeth Kelly noted that holiday music is not specific to one type of listener. She explained that any type of artist can make a seasonal song, usually specific to their audience. This variety actively expands the industry and makes it an essential part of many different seasonal celebrations.
“I like finding my favorite bands. One of my favorite bands, they’re kind of punk, and they made a Christmas album. It was really good. Stuff like that is what I like to get into,” Kelly said.
Reyes shared that her favorite merry song, “Christmas Tree Farm” by Taylor Swift, became her number one for the season because it is consistent with traditional, nostalgic aspects of older holiday music. She acknowledged that other artists such as Mariah Carey may be more popular, but nothing compares to the comfort of Swift’s track.
“Mariah Carey is cool and all, but she’s very overplayed,” Reyes said. “Taylor’s song is just so old-timey, so comforting and warm.”
Press shared a similar perspective, mentioning that the best songs are the kind that stay with the traditionally heart-warming theme of the holidays.
“Christmas music is all the old ones. All the classics are from 50-60 years ago, so they just sound better,” Reyes said. “All the new ones are a bit too poppy. They don’t really fit the mellow theme.”
Reyes feels that songs are meant to bring spirit and happiness to the public, so they should be acceptable to listen to whenever one pleases, even if it is earlier in the year.
“People just like to hate on something. And I guess some people really like Thanksgiving, so they like to wait a little for that at least,” Reyes said. “But I disagree. We need some holiday cheer around. So why not? I love holiday music. I don’t care if it’s too early.”