Ten Versions of The Christmas Song, Ranked

What better music to rank this time of year than Christmas music? “The Christmas Song” was written in 1944 and first performed in 1946 by Nat King Cole, whose version is still the definitive version. It is among those Christmas songs that originated in the “Great American Songbook” period and might as well have existed forever for most people alive. It's far from my favorite Christmas song. Here are ten versions of “The Christmas Song” selected off Spotify, ranked.

10. She & Him

Can't stand her voice, and this version is too moody. At least it's short. 1/5

9. Michael Buble

Can't stand his voice either. If you want jazzy, just listen to the original version. 1/5

8. Christina Aguilera

This song is a good minute longer than the other versions. There's a far too long bell introduction. Christina does her usual diva vocal riffs over a stripped down piano instrumental. It's a little out of place. Too many “ooooh yeeeeah”s for this song. 2/5

7. NSYNC

In a cheesy genre (Christmas music) meeting another (boy bands), this is especially cheesy. The backing vocals are a bit much. 2/5

6. Celine Dion

This was my favorite Christmas album for a long time, but this isn't the best song on there. It's a little too sedated, and doesn't show off the full power of Celine's voice. 3/5

5. Josh Groban

His voice sounds fine, but more than the others he sounds a bit silly, and like he knows it. The instrumental is very mid-century musical, very traditional. 3/5

4. Erasure

This is practically chiptunes. A very fresh take on the song, but maybe a little difficult to play at all but the hippest/nerdiest parties. 4/5

3. Whitney Houston

There's a lot of “ooooh yeeeeah”s here too, but also a very appropriate “ooooh Lord.” Her vocal riffs are flawless. 4/5

2. Stevie Wonder

This recording is from 1967, early in his career. Despite being 30-40 years older than many of these other recordings, it sounds much fresher and livelier. The harmonica solo makes this version stand out. 5/5

1. Mary J. Blige

Mary's voice sounds wonderfully clear here. Beautiful and straight to the point. No excessive orchestral instrumentation or vocal affectation. 5/5