Winter Holiday Songs

One of the extra benefits of working in a large customer serving environment is the ability to listen to lots and lots of holiday music. Luckily, from year to year, the music is switched up so as not to annoy the workers too much. The music that is played has a good variety, from pop to rock to country, blues and jazz; from the 1940s through the present day. 

There are, of course, old classics like Burl Ives and Brenda Lee and newer "classics" like Mariah Carey and Wham. Those chestnuts are always roasting however, so I want to explore some different songs that I have heard this year - from work and from my own recommendations.

Most Inappropriate Christmas Song played at Work:

AC/DC - Mistress for Christmas


I think one needs to take this song with tongue firmly planted in cheek... and if one does, it is certainly just an absurd AC/DC song. It is certainly better than the classic "Baby It's Cold Outside" or "Santa Baby." From the excellent Razor's Edge Album that my mother loved playing in the early 90s (which included such songs as Thunderstruck and Money Talks). Apparently, Angus Young said the song was written about Donald Trump. I'll just leave all the rest unsaid.

Best Christmas Song played at Work:

The Waitresses - Christmas Wrapping


It's such an 80s song. It's about Christmas in all the good and bad ways.

Song Missing from Rotation this season:

Run-DMC - Christmas in Hollis



A Classic rap from the masters. Has been a standard at work the past few years, but not this one. No Collard Greens this year.

Metal Song Missing from Rotation:

Savatage - Christmas Eve/Sarajevo


Yes, the radio stations will always say it is Trans-Siberian Orchestra. However, the song was first released by Savatage on the "Dead Winter Dead" album. In any case, while Carol of the Bells (which is the second half of the song) is a Ukranian Folk Song (not specifically associated with Winter), the very beginning is "God Rest Ye Merry, Gentlemen" 

Best New Version of a Non-Winter Song that is now considered a Christmas Song:

Paralandra - My Favorite Things


Love the jazz vibe they brought into this. 

Favorite Mash-Up of the Season:

Kane (featuring Sean P. Magee) - Highway to Winter (Winter Wonderland)



Look, it's half of Apocalyptic Lovers (aka Love and War). Also, it's my brother on guitar. 

Favorite version of the Grinch:

Kane (featuring Sean P. Magee) - You're A Mean One, Mr. Grinch


Seriously, this is excellent. Even if I am biased.

Best Revisit of a Song:

The Pretty Reckless - Where Are You Christmas


Taylor Momsen harmonizing with her younger self... is pretty bad ass.

What will next year bring?

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