I’ve never been one to go nuts over Christmas music. Many holiday fanatics start listening to Christmas music the day after Halloween, but that’s definitely not me. Usually I am perfectly fine listening to my usual alternative indie hipster tunes throughout the whole holiday season.

Though when the mood is right and the Christmas spirit is in the air, I can’t resist cranking up a few of my personal favorite Christmas songs.

“All I Want For Christmas Is You” by Mariah Carey

When it comes to Christmas music, Mariah Carey is my go-to-girl. “All I Want For Christmas Is You” is one of her most popular Christmas songs and is my all-time favorite Christmas song. It’s one of those jams where I have every word memorized along with practiced choreographed dance moves. If this song is not on your Christmas playlist then you are seriously slacking.

“Sleigh Ride” by TLC

Oh how I love me some TLC! Whether it’s their classic hit “Waterfalls” or their Christmas jam “Sleigh Ride,” they’ve got it going on. If you’ve listened to “Sleigh Ride” you’ll already know that it’s not your usual classic Christmas song, but then again, that’s why it’s so great. It’s another one of those songs where it’s hard to resist singing, or in this case rapping, to this hip-hop tune with a little Christmas flare.

“All Alone On Christmas” by Darlene Love

Of course some of the oldest Christmas songs are the best. Coming from the “Home Alone Christmas” soundtrack, this song has been one of my favorites for a long time. I guess you could say it’s nostalgic for me. This song reminds me of the holidays when I was younger and my mom would play the soundtrack throughout the house while we decorated the Christmas tree, or when she would bake delicious Christmas goodies. It’s one of the Christmas songs I will die listening to.

“Carol of the Bells” by Mannheim Steamroller

Ever since I can remember, Mannheim Steamroller has always been a Christmas music essential in my house. Their music is a modern rock take of the most traditional Christmas songs. “Carol of the Bells” is  my favorite from all their Christmas tunes. Their songs are strictly instrumental, which in my opinion is an advantage for them. There are countless Christmas songs that just get really annoying with their corny, repetitive lyrics. Mannheim Steamroller offers a fresh and modern take on Christmas music.

“Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree” by Brenda Lee

Music artists continue to remake their own versions of Christmas songs, but for some songs the original version is the absolute best. “Rockin Around the Christmas Tree” symbolizes what Christmas should be: the most cheerful and wonderful time of whole year. So when you’re in desperate need of some groovy, cheery Christmas music, don’t forget to turn on this classic Christmas song.