A Rebel's Playlist for Holiday Cheer
Alright, you rebels and grinches, it's that time of the year again. The holiday season is upon us, and with it comes the familiar tunes that seem to saturate every space – but what if you're not feeling the festive vibe? Fear not, fellow holiday rebels! This blog post is your escape hatch, your musical rebellion against the clichés of Christmas melodies. We've curated a playlist that steers clear of the traditional, featuring tracks that resonate with those who find themselves more Grinch than Santa Claus. Here are a few of my favorites off of my holiday playlist that flips the bird to tradition.
1. The Maine's "...And a Happy New Year"
Let's kick things off with The Maine's "...And a Happy New Year" album. For me, the standout track is "Ho Ho Hopefully." This song has a chokehold on me every December, and I can't get enough of it. It's my unconventional anthem for the holiday season. Every year I start December 1st with this song, as it starts, “December 1st, I’m in a foreign state, I’m running late, I’m all alone…wishing I was home with you baby.” It’s melancholic and beautiful, with the rest of the album being a little more upbeat and fun with songs like, “Santa Stole My Girlfriend.” It’s an album you can’t miss out on during the winter season.
2. All Time Low's Middle-Finger-in-the-Air Anthems: Revolting Against the Holly Jolly Norm
All Time Low crashes the holiday party with "Fool's Holiday" and "Merry Christmas Kiss My Ass." If you're not about sugar-coated cheer, these pop-punk anthems bring the vibes you've been craving. They encompass that classic angsty pop-punk sound, with a touch of humor, and honestly, are so much fun to belt out in the car.
3. Fall Out Boy's "Yule Shoot Your Eye Out": Sarcasm-Infused Festivities
Fall Out Boy steps in with "Yule Shoot Your Eye Out," injecting some sarcasm into the festivities. Laden with sarcasm and a unique melody, this track adds a touch of irony to the holiday spirit, making it a must-have for your rebellious playlist. We all love a good Fall Out Boy song, and this one does not disappoint.
4. Blink 182 and Simple Plan's Pop Punk Rebellion
Now, let's talk about Blink 182 and Simple Plan, the pranksters of pop-punk, injecting a dose of humor into the holiday season. These bands not only bring an edgy sound but also a light-hearted energy that's perfect for those looking to keep things fun and upbeat during this festive time. Blink 182's “I Won't Be Home for Christmas" and Simple Plan's "My Christmas List" keep the pop-punk rebellion alive. Forget the sleigh bells; these tracks come with an attitude that's perfect for those who'd rather be rocking out than decking the halls.
5. Taylor Swift's Unwrapped Surprises: Tis The Damn Season and Christmas Tree Farm - Joining the Swifties for the Holidays
This holiday season, I'm jumping on the Swiftie bandwagon. Swift has been the talk of the music industry, mesmerizing fans with her Eras tour and gracing theaters with her cinematic presence. Her winter-themed track, "Christmas Tree Farm," adds a unique touch to the holiday season, making it a must-have for those who want a dash of holiday magic.
6. Eclectic Mix from NSYNC, Sia, One Republic, and Covers: Modern Flair to Holiday Classics:
Diversify your Christmas song arsenal with NSYNC's "Merry Christmas, Happy Holidays,” (That’s right, the 90s are back in style), Sia's "Snowman,", and covers like One Republic's "Christmas Without You", Shawn Mendes and Camila Cabello's "The Christmas Song" and Sam Smith's "Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas." In a twist of holiday magic, contemporary pop artists are breathing new life into the age-old traditions of Christmas music. So, if you're looking to infuse your holiday playlist with a rejuvenated spirit, these tracks are your ticket to a festive journey through the best of both worlds—classic and contemporary.
7. Amy Grant's Christmas Nostalgia:
Now, let's take a trip down memory lane with the Amy Grant Christmas Album. This album holds a special place in my heart. As a family tradition, we would gather all the Christmas decorations, spend hours jamming out, and share laughs while putting up the tree together. It became our festive anthem, turning a regular task into a cherished family affair.
Even as adults, just for the sake of nostalgia, we bring out the Amy Grant Christmas Album during family gatherings throughout the holidays. While we may not decorate the tree together anymore, the music still holds its magic, transporting us back to those moments of togetherness. So, if you're looking for a touch of nostalgia and a sprinkle of familial warmth, let Amy Grant's Christmas melodies be the backdrop to your own holiday memories.
So, there you have it—an anti-Christmas tradition playlist for those who don’t particularly love the traditional Christmas songs that play all month long. Let these unconventional tracks become the soundtrack to your festive rebellion, and your unconventional guide through the holiday chaos. ‘Tis the season to be different, after all.