When it comes to holiday music, there are certain songs that make their annual appearance like clockwork, filling homes, malls, and radios with Christmas cheer. Some of these tunes were smash hits for their artists—but only once. These Christmas one-hit wonders have become a cherished part of the season, warming hearts despite the fact that the artists themselves may have long faded from the spotlight. Let’s take a trip through some of the best Christmas one-hit wonders of all time, exploring what makes them so special during the festive season.
1. “Christmas Wrapping” – The Waitresses
The Waitresses weren’t exactly household names, but their song “Christmas Wrapping” has been a seasonal favorite since its release in 1981. With catchy lyrics about a woman’s chaotic holiday season and a surprise romance, it’s a relatable tune with a sense of humor. The song’s upbeat, funky rhythm makes it easy to dance along to, and its charm lies in its unconventional storytelling. The Waitresses may have fizzled out after this hit, but “Christmas Wrapping” continues to add a touch of wit and rhythm to Christmas playlists.
2. “Do They Know It’s Christmas?” – Band Aid
In 1984, an ensemble of British and Irish musicians gathered under the name Band Aid to record “Do They Know It’s Christmas?” as a charity single to raise awareness for the Ethiopian famine. Although many of the artists involved, like Bono and George Michael, were stars in their own right, Band Aid itself was a one-time phenomenon. The song captures a moment in time with lyrics that reflect on global responsibility and compassion. It’s played every year as a reminder of giving and helping those in need, making it one of the most impactful Christmas one-hit wonders.
3. “Wonderful Christmastime” – Paul McCartney
Some might argue that Paul McCartney isn’t exactly a one-hit wonder, but “Wonderful Christmastime” lives in a special category. The song itself, with its simple lyrics and catchy synth, is one of McCartney’s few seasonal hits. Released in 1979, it’s become a go-to holiday tune, even though it’s not connected to McCartney’s bigger, more legendary hits. The jingly tune and cheerful lyrics make it perfect for capturing holiday cheer. While McCartney’s career spans decades, “Wonderful Christmastime” feels like a one-hit wonder when it comes to Christmas.
4. “Feliz Navidad” – José Feliciano
With “Feliz Navidad,” José Feliciano crafted a bilingual holiday tune that’s catchy and uplifting, whether you speak Spanish or not. Released in 1970, the song has stood the test of time and is played globally each Christmas. Its simple “Feliz Navidad, próspero año y felicidad” chorus gets people singing along, regardless of language. Despite Feliciano’s many musical talents, this Christmas hit is his most recognized. It’s a one-hit wonder that brings joy year after year, keeping the festive spirit alive.
5. “Last Christmas” – Wham!
Wham! had their fair share of success, but “Last Christmas” might be their most beloved track, especially as the holiday season approaches. Released in 1984, the song blends heartache with holiday warmth, telling the tale of a broken-hearted Christmas. It’s a bittersweet tune, yet its upbeat melody and catchy chorus make it endlessly playable. Though Wham! had other hits, “Last Christmas” remains a definitive holiday one-hit wonder, bringing festive feels with a side of nostalgia.
6. “Snoopy’s Christmas” – The Royal Guardsmen
A quirky, lighthearted hit from 1967, “Snoopy’s Christmas” by The Royal Guardsmen has a unique appeal. Based on the Peanuts character Snoopy, this song recounts a World War I-inspired story of Snoopy and the Red Baron. With its combination of humor and holiday cheer, it’s a standout tune that families enjoy each year. The Royal Guardsmen didn’t release many other songs that gained similar traction, but “Snoopy’s Christmas” has held onto its place in Christmas playlists for decades.
7. “Happy Xmas (War is Over)” – John Lennon & Yoko Ono
Though John Lennon and Yoko Ono are hardly one-hit wonders, their 1971 Christmas song “Happy Xmas (War is Over)” stands as a singular holiday achievement. The anti-war message and children’s choir make it both poignant and festive. The song’s chorus—“War is over, if you want it”—makes it a powerful reminder of peace during the holiday season. Despite their broader fame, “Happy Xmas” has become a standalone hit, played each December as a call for compassion and unity.
8. “Christmas (Baby Please Come Home)” – Darlene Love
Darlene Love’s soulful 1963 hit “Christmas (Baby Please Come Home)” is a classic. With powerful vocals and a production style courtesy of Phil Spector, this song has a sound that transports listeners to a holiday wonderland. Although Love didn’t achieve sustained mainstream success, her voice and this song have become Christmas essentials. Its annual appearance adds a touch of warmth and longing to any festive playlist, making it a one-hit wonder with deep emotional resonance.
What Makes These Songs Enduring?
What sets these holiday one-hit wonders apart is their staying power. They aren’t just festive; they bring unique perspectives, catchy melodies, and a touch of magic to the season. Each one offers something memorable that resonates with listeners year after year. From sing-along choruses like “Feliz Navidad” to the solemn reminder of “Do They Know It’s Christmas?”, these songs blend sentimentality with timelessness.