80s Christmas Songs That Still Rock Today

The 1980s - a decade of big hair, big phones, and even bigger personalities. But amidst all the neon and excess, something truly special was happening in the music world. Christmas songs, in particular, were getting a serious injection of rock 'n' roll spirit, thanks to some of the era's biggest names. Fast-forward to today, and it's amazing how many of these 80s Christmas tracks still hold up - and rock our holiday playlists like it's 1989.

From the likes of Wham! and George Michael to Bryan Adams and A Flock of Seagulls, the 1980s were a time when Christmas music got a serious makeover. Gone were the traditional carols and sedate crooners; in their place came a new wave of energetic, catchy, and - dare we say it - cool Christmas tunes that captured the essence of the decade.

So, what makes these 80s Christmas songs so enduringly awesome? Is it the synth-heavy production, the over-the-top music videos, or simply the unbridled enthusiasm of the artists involved? Whatever the magic formula, it's clear that these tracks have become an integral part of our holiday heritage - and we can't get enough of them.

Rockin' Around the Christmas Tree

One of the most iconic Christmas songs of all time, "Rockin' Around the Christmas Tree" was first recorded by Brenda Lee in 1958. But it was the 1980s that really saw this track get a rock 'n' roll makeover, thanks to the likes of Melissa Manchester and Kim Wilde. Their versions brought a new level of energy and verve to the song, making it a staple of 80s Christmas playlists.

A Very 80s Christmas Soundtrack

So, what other 80s Christmas tracks are still rocking our world today? Here are a few of our favorites:

• "Last Christmas" by Wham! (1984) - A timeless classic that's as much about heartbreak as it is about holiday cheer.
• "Christmas in Hollis" by Run-DMC (1987) - A hip-hop holiday anthem that's as fun as it is funky.
• "Fairytale of New York" by The Pogues (feat. Kirsty MacColl) (1987) - A raucous, whiskey-soaked duet that's become a Christmas staple.
• "Christmas Wrapping" by The Waitresses (1982) - A new wave Christmas song that's as catchy as it is melancholy.

Winter Wonderland: A Season of Synth

One of the defining features of 80s Christmas music is the liberal use of synthesizers. From the eerie soundscapes of "2000 Miles" by The Pretenders to the cheerful bleeps of "Christmas in the Sand" by Colbie Caillat, synths added a unique texture to holiday tunes that's still unmistakable today.

But what makes synth-heavy Christmas songs so magical? Is it the way they evoke a sense of wonder and enchantment, or simply the nostalgic value of hearing those familiar bleeps and bloops? Whatever the reason, it's clear that synths have become an integral part of the 80s Christmas sound - and we can't imagine the holiday season without them.

10 Essential 80s Christmas Synth Tracks

• "Christmas in the Sand" by Colbie Caillat (2008, but heavily influenced by 80s synth-pop)
• "2000 Miles" by The Pretenders (1983)
• "Christmas Rhapsody" by The Proclaimers (1988)
• "Winter Wonderland" by Eurythmics (1987)
• "Thank God It's Christmas" by Queen (1984)
• "Do They Know It's Christmas?" by Band Aid (1984)
• "I Believe in Father Christmas" by Greg Lake (1983)
• "It's the Most Wonderful Time of the Year" by Andy Williams (1980)
• "Someday at Christmas" by Stevie Wonder (1980)
• "Merry Christmas (I Don't Want to Fight Tonight)" by The Ramones (1989)

A Very 80s Christmas Playlist

So, what does the ultimate 80s Christmas playlist look like? Here's a selection of tracks that's sure to get your holiday party started:

• "Jingle Bell Rock" by Hall & Oates (1983)
• "Christmas (Baby Please Come Home)" by Bryan Adams (1987)
• "Santa Claus Is Coming to Town" by The Jackson 5 (1980)
• "I Want a Hippopotamus for Christmas" by Gayla Peevey (1980)
• "Mistletoe and Wine" by Cliff Richard (1988)
• "The Christmas Song (Chestnuts Roasting on an Open Fire)" by David Foster (1982)
• "The Little Drummer Boy" by Bing Crosby and David Bowie (1982)
• "We Wish You a Wookiee Christmas" by The Muppets (1980)
• "Merry Christmas Everybody" by Slade (1980)
• "Yule Shoot Your Eye Out" by Fall Out Boy (2003, but heavily influenced by 80s Christmas music)

The 80s Christmas Legacy

So, what's the lasting impact of 80s Christmas music on our holiday traditions? For one thing, it's clear that the decade's synth-heavy sound has influenced a whole new generation of artists - from Taylor Swift to Mariah Carey. But more than that, 80s Christmas music has become an integral part of our shared cultural heritage - a nostalgic reminder of the decade's excesses and extravagances.

Whether you're a die-hard fan of Wham! or a devotee of The Waitresses, it's undeniable that 80s Christmas music has a special place in our hearts. So, this holiday season, why not dig out your old vinyl records (or streaming playlists) and give these tracks another spin? We guarantee you'll be rocking around the Christmas tree in no time!