One of the most magical things about the holiday season is the music.  Trimming the tree with our favorite people while listening to The Temptations’ Holiday station on Pandora is always a charmed life.  Then there’s all of the cooking that happens and you play the Jackson 5 Christmas album to keep you energized throughout the tiring process.  Let us also not forget that we all need some peace when driving to and from work so we are sure to put on some Christmas music while we’re stuck in traffic.  Here’s a list of some all time favorite songs that get us through those times.  This is not a definitive, objective, nor comprehensive list.  It is strictly a subjective take on all of my favorites. So, save your debates for the uncle that comes over for Christmas dinner and eats all of the dressing.  I even embedded the youtube video for your instant gratification. Enjoy!

1) “This Christmas” by Donny Hathaway (I also like Chris Brown’s version)

2) “Christmas in Harlem” Kanye West feat. Cam’Ron, Jim Jones, Vado, CyHi Da Prynce, Pusha-T, Musiq Soulchild, and Teyana Taylor

3) “Who Would Imagine A King” by Whitney Houston from The Preacher’s Wife Soundtrack

4) “Silent Night” by The Temptations

5) “I Saw Mommy Kissing Santa Clause” by The Jackson 5

6) “Let it Snow” by Boyz II Men feat. Brian McKnight

7) “The First Noel” by BeBe and CeCe Winans

8) “All I Want for Christmas” by Mariah Carey

9) “Every Year, Every Christmas” by Luther Vandross

10) “The Christmas Song” by Nat King Cole