The best new holiday music releases of 2025
NEW YORK (AP) — Tis the season to put on some brand new Christmas music. The best way to celebrate is to sing Christmas classics, new and old. But you don’t know what to press Play on? We have what you need.
In honor of the most wonderful time of the year, here are some of the best new holiday releases for the 2025 season. So grab a loved one a cup of eggnog and start listening.
“Vacation”, Roberta Flack
The world lost a giant in February when Roberta Flack, the Grammy-winning singer and pianist, died at age 88. Perhaps best known for her timeless version of “Killing Me Softly with His Song,” the Christmas season brings another reason to celebrate. A new release, “Holidays,” like many on this list, features originals and covers – as well as a selection of songs from Flack’s classic “The Christmas Album.” This takes on special meaning this year.
“Christmas”, Trisha Yearwood
Country singer Trisha Yearwood’s voice feels like a homecoming; that makes her the perfect talent for a new holiday collection. “Christmastime” is full of familiar melodies and, perhaps best of all, features “Merry Christmas, Valentine,” a duet with husband Garth Brooks. Blast this one at your meeting and there won’t be a dry eye in the house.
“It’s Christmas”, Eric Benét
R&B singer Eric Benét’s debut holiday album, “It’s Christmas,” is filled with warmth; think of it as the sonic equivalent of curling up in front of a crackling fireplace on a snowy winter evening. You don’t believe us? Well, one listen to his version of “Please Come Home for Christmas” or “O Holy Night” will make you a believer. Or better yet, there’s “Christmas Morning,” featuring Benét’s youngest daughters, Lucia and Luna. Tissues, you might want to grab a few.
“The City of Snow Globes”, Brad Paisley
Some things make sense together: peanut butter and jelly, coffee and donuts, Brad Paisley and his touring band reunite in Nashville to record a charming Christmas album. “Snow Globe Town” features eight originals and eight covers – just what the heart desires this holiday season. However, it’s the old collection that will really create a connection; there are real charms in “Lit,” “That Crazy Elf” and the title track.
“Christmas in the City”, Pentatonix
For fans of a cappella, there’s no better news than yet another holiday album from Pentatonix. Across 18 tracks, “Christmas in the City” celebrates the magic of cosmopolitan life during the holidays and showcases the group’s vocal athleticism. Hear them reimagine the songs you know and love and introduce some originals. Start with “Snowing in Paris,” which features R&B pop star JoJo, and end with “I’ve Got My Love to Keep Me Warm,” a previously unreleased recording of the Frank Sinatra classic featuring Ol’ Blue Eyes himself.
“It feels like Christmas”, Mickey Guyton
Country powerhouse Mickey Guyton sounds like Christmas and once you dive into these eight tracks, you will too. From his rendition of “O Holy Night” to his masterful version of “Do You Want to Build a Snowman?” ” from Disney’s “Frozen” (sorry, parents!), there’s a lot to love here.
“Evergreen Christmas Sessions,” Hunter Hayes
Hunter Hayes is a newer name on the country scene than some of the other artists listed here, but that just means he’s a new voice to discover. His “Evergreen Christmas Sessions” is a brief introduction – just four covers of holiday standards – but it’s a charming adventure. Start with “Winter Wonderland” and “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas,” stick with “Run Run Rudolph” and “Silent Night.”
“The Chess Records Christmas Album,” various artists
Sometimes a compilation is what a Christmas party needs. Chess Records has the answer. “The Chess Records Christmas Album” is an impressive collection of veteran talent. The release includes everything from Chuck Berry’s “Run Rudolph Run” and the Moonglows’ “Hey Santa Claus” to Lenox Avenue’s “Little Drummer Boy” and the Salem Travelers’ “Merry Christmas to You.”
“A Charlie Brown Christmas”, Vince Guaraldi
It’s hard to believe, but 60 years ago, the “Peanuts” gang classic, “A Charlie Brown Christmas,” first aired on television and became an almost instant sensation. Part of its charm, of course, must be attributed to its whimsical score by jazz pianist Vince Guaraldi. To celebrate such a big anniversary, Craft Recordings is re-releasing its original soundtrack – a good reason to revisit these beloved songs.
