When it comes to Christmas music, certain songs become staples of the holiday season.
Whether they bring joy or an inevitable sense of repetition, these hits dominate playlists, radio stations, and shopping malls worldwide.
For years, one track has stood above the rest—and now it has an official crown.
According to Spotify and The New York Post, Mariah Carey’s “All I Want For Christmas Is You” is the undisputed champion of holiday music, according to SE.
With over 2 billion streams, the 1994 classic continues to reign supreme as the most played Christmas song ever. Its popularity surges by a staggering 860% starting in early November, earning Carey over $60 million in streaming revenue alone.
Other Festive Favorites
With over 2 billion streams, the 1994 classic continues to reign supreme as the most played Christmas song ever.
Its popularity surges by a staggering 860% starting in early November, earning Carey over $60 million in streaming revenue alone.
The song’s enduring appeal lies in its upbeat rhythm and universal message of love over materialism.
"I don’t care about the presents, underneath the Christmas tree," Carey sings. "I just want you for my own."
That sentiment, paired with its infectious melody, has made it a must-have on every holiday playlist.
Trailing behind Carey’s megahit is Wham!’s 1984 classic “Last Christmas,” which boasts an impressive 1.76 billion streams.
The bittersweet love story set against a festive backdrop has long captured listeners’ hearts. In third place is a more modern addition, Ariana Grande’s “Santa Tell Me” from 2014, with 1.2 billion plays.
Classic tunes round out the top ten, featuring timeless favorites like Brenda Lee’s “Rockin’ Around The Christmas Tree” and Bobby Helms’ “Jingle Bell Rock.”
These mid-century hits continue to resonate, blending nostalgia with holiday cheer.
Other entries include:
Michael Bublé’s “It’s Beginning to Look a Lot Like Christmas,”
Sia’s “Snowman,”
José Feliciano’s“Feliz Navidad.”
While the list highlights the global love for Christmas music, Carey’s track remains in a league of its own. Year after year, it dominates airwaves and playlists, cementing its place as the holiday anthem of all time.
Whether you love it or find it overplayed, one thing is clear — Christmas just wouldn’t feel the same without it.
