New Christmas Songs for Every Musical Taste in 2023

2023-11-20

Image of Mark Tremonti of Creed and Alter Bridge by a Christmas tree.

Mark Tremonti – Author: Anne Erickson, Photo by: Chuck Brueckmann

Here are some new Christmas songs in a range of genres, to please every musical taste this season

Christmas is here, and with it comes great Christmas music. The trend is always to release Christmas music as early as possible in the season, so we already have a bounty of holiday music available for 2023. I love this time of year, and I’m also a big fan of holiday music, so I’ve already been scouring the release lists to see what new Christmas gems are out there.

Really, the same Christmas music can get boring, year after year. So, what are some new Christmas songs out in 2023 that could be holiday classics in the making? Who has new Christmas songs out this year? Read on for a list of brand new holiday songs out in 2023 to consider adding to your tried-and-true collection.

Brandy, “Christmas Party for Two”

For: Anyone who like 2000s-era pop and R&B music.

Pop and R&B artist Brandy has been going strong for nearly 30 years, as she released her self-titled debut back in 1994. She’s still a force in music and has returned with a Christmas album, “Christmas with Brandy.” The album marks her eighth studio set and first to arrive on Motown. It features some cover versions of popular holiday songs and six original Christmas songs. My favorite song on the album is the original holiday tune, “Christmas Party for Two,” which is a romantic holiday jam.

Jason and Travis Kelce, “Fairytale of Philadelphia”

For: A sports fan, but definitely not a Pittsburgh Steelers fan.

Everyone is talking about NFL football, thanks to Kansas City Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce and Taylor Swift being a hot item. Well, Travis’ brother, Jason, is on the Philadelphia Eagles’ team, and the Eagles have a new holiday album out this year, called “A Philly Special Christmas Special.” Of course, the choice cut on here is the duet between Jason and Travis, a festive and fun track called “Fairytale of Philadelphia.”

Mark Tremonti, “Christmas Classics New & Old”

For: The rocker in your life.

Mark Tremonti is a famed guitarist from his work in Creed, Alter Bridge and his own band, Tremonti. But, he’s also a great singer, and Tremonti showcases those beautiful baritone pipe on his new holiday album, “Christmas Classics New & Old.” On it, you’ll find a mix of traditional songs and one fantastic original. Tremonti’s original holiday song is called “Christmas Morning,” and it’s super festive sounding, with a piano and marching band. Think “Little Drummer Boy” but cooler.

Cher, “What Christmas Means To Me” (with Stevie Wonder)

For: Anyone who loves “classic pop” music and appreciates the genius of Cher.

Cher is back. The pop maven has released her first new studio album in five years, “Christmas,” and it’s choc-full of charming holiday songs, plus special appearances from some big names, including Stevie Wonder, Darlene Love, Michael Bublé, Cyndi Lauper and more. This is a really unique Christmas album and will likely appeal to anyone who wants to switch up their playlist a bit. “What Christmas Means To Me” is a standout here, as the song features the great Stevie Wonder.

Samara Joy, “Twinkle Twinkle Little Me”

For: The jazz fan in your life.

Modern jazz great Samara Joy has released her first holiday album, “A Joyful Holiday,” which is a small collection featuring two previously released holiday songs, as well as four new ones. While Joy’s take on the traditional Christmas songs “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas” and “O Holy Night” are great, she really shines on “Twinkle Twinkle Little Me” featuring Sullivan Fortner.

Jessie James Decker, “Decker the Halls”

For: Anyone who loves modern country music with a twist.

Jessie James Decker is known for her fun holiday jams, and she’s back with a new holiday EP, “Decker the Halls,” this season. One highlight on the album is “Tangled In Tinsel,” which captures the manic nature of the holidays, but with a fun delivery.

Gregory Porter, “Heart for Christmas”

For: Anyone who loves good jazz.

Singer-songwriter and jazz musician Gregory Porter has his first-ever Christmas record out this year, “Christmas Wish.” The album sees Porter performing with his longtime backup band, with production by Troy Miller in New York and London. This is a warm-sounding holiday album. Specifically, the track “Heart for Christmas” with get you in the holiday spirit.

Anne Autumn Erickson, “Christmas with You”

For: Those who like feel-good pop music with a holiday twist.

Yes, this is my own holiday song. I just released a new, original Christmas song called “Christmas with You” last Friday (Nov. 17), and it marks my third holiday single. While my previous holiday music was released with my band, Upon Wings, this is a solo song. The inspiration is wanting to be with that special someone on Christmas morning and sitting on the couch, cuddling and drinking hot cocoa together. What more could you want from Christmas?

Anne Erickson
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Posted by Anne Erickson | Features, Music