ASCAP Reveals Top Holiday Hits of 2025 for Modern Audiences

Highlights of the Top Holiday Songs of 2025

This holiday season, the American Society of Composers, Authors and Publishers (ASCAP) has unveiled the most influential holiday tunes from the past quarter-century. These songs, known as the ASCAP New Classic Holiday Songs, have quickly captured the hearts of listeners around the world. This year's chart showcases a mix of beloved classics and contemporary hits that are on their way to becoming timeless favorites.

With its timeless charm, "Santa Tell Me,” penned by hitmakers Savan Kotecha and Ilya Salmanzadeh, ascends to the #1 position on the Top 10 ASCAP New Classic Holiday Songs list for the first time. Following closely is the enchanting “Underneath the Tree” by Kelly Clarkson, co-written with Greg Kurstin. Both tracks have charmed audiences and remain popular on the ASCAP Top 25 Holiday Songs chart, highlighting the collaborative spirit of songwriters today.

Contemporary Classics Capturing Hearts

Paul Williams, the ASCAP Chairman and President, encapsulated the essence of the season: "There's an undeniable magic surrounding the holidays, and songwriters of every era have found ways to capture that feeling and deliver it straight to our hearts." This reflects not only the creativity of individual artists but also the collective effort of ASCAP's talented membership, which nurtures the craft of songwriting.

This time, the perennial favorite, “Sleigh Ride” by Leroy Anderson and Mitchell Parish, has achieved the top spot on the ASCAP Top 25 Holiday Songs chart, a significant milestone since it last held this position in recent years. The song's nostalgic warmth is a staple during holiday celebrations, resonating with audiences year after year. Meanwhile, Mariah Carey's “All I Want for Christmas Is You,” co-written with Walter Afanasieff, continues to dominate airwaves, cementing its place as an enduring holiday anthem. Furthermore, José Feliciano's celebrated “Feliz Navidad” experiences a renaissance with a new cover by Latin music icon Marc Anthony, proving that some classics never go out of style.

Timeless Classics From Holiday Legends

Legendary songwriter Johnny Marks has made his mark with four songs ranked in the top 25, including “A Holly Jolly Christmas” and “Rockin' Around the Christmas Tree.” Originally crafted from the late 1940s to early 1960s, his pieces have been reinterpreted by an impressive roster of modern artists, ensuring that these tunes resonate with new generations. These captivating songs remind us of the ever-evolving nature of holiday music while honoring its rich history.

Below are the most-played ASCAP New Classic Holiday Songs of 2025, alongside the classics that still ring in the celebrations:

Top 10 ASCAP New Classic Holiday Songs of 2025:

1. "Santa Tell Me" by Savan Kotecha and Ilya Salmanzadeh (2013)
2. "Underneath the Tree" by Kelly Clarkson and Greg Kurstin (2013)
3. "Mistletoe" by Justin Bieber and Adam Messinger (2011)
4. "Snowman" by Greg Kurstin and Sia (2017)
5. "Like It's Christmas" by Gian Stone (2019)
6. "Where Are You Christmas" by Mariah Carey and James Horner (2000)
7. "Santa, Can't You Hear Me" by Kelly Clarkson (2021)
8. "Cozy Little Christmas" by Ferras Alqaisi, Katy Perry and Greg Wells (2018)
9. "Wrap Me Up" by Jimmy Fallon, Gian Stone & Meghan Trainor (2023)
10. "Believe" by Glen Ballard (2004)

Celebrating Holiday Music Traditions

The ASCAP Top 25 Holiday Songs of 2025 honors the classics that continue to adorn our playlists:

Top 25 ASCAP Holiday Songs of 2025:

1. "Sleigh Ride" by Leroy Anderson and Mitchell Parish (1948)
2. "Let It Snow! Let It Snow! Let It Snow!" by Sammy Cahn and Jule Styne (1945)
3. "It's Beginning to Look a Lot Like Christmas" by Meredith Willson (1951)
4. "Jingle Bell Rock" by Joseph Carleton Beal and James Ross Boothe (1958)
5. "A Holly Jolly Christmas" by Johnny Marks (1962)
6. "Rockin' Around the Christmas Tree" by Johnny Marks (1958)
7. "Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas" by Ralph Blane and Hugh Martin (1944)
8. "Santa Claus Is Comin' to Town" by Fred Coots and Haven Gillespie (1934)
9. "Winter Wonderland" by Felix Bernard and Richard B. Smith (1934)
10. "Frosty the Snowman" by Steve Nelson and Walter E. Rollins (1950)
11. "Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer" by Johnny Marks (1949)
12. "It's the Most Wonderful Time of the Year" by Edward Pola and George Wyle (1963)
13. "White Christmas" by Irving Berlin (1941)
14. "All I Want for Christmas Is You" by Walter Afanasieff and Mariah Carey (1994)
15. "The Christmas Song" by Mel Tormé and Robert Wells (1946)
16. "Jingle Bells" (Frank Sinatra version), arranged by Gordon Jenkins (1958)
17. "Silver Bells" by Ray Evans and Jay Livingston (1950)
18. "Feliz Navidad" by José Feliciano (1970)
19. "Here Comes Santa Claus (Down Santa Claus Lane)" by Gene Autry and Oakley Haldeman (1947)
20. "Deck the Halls" (Nat King Cole version), arranged by Nat King Cole and Leland Gillette (1960)
21. "This Christmas" by Donny Hathaway and Nadine McKinnor (1970)
22. "Santa Baby" by Joan Javits, Anthony Springer and Philip Springer (1953)
23. "Santa Tell Me" by Savan Kotecha and Ilya Salmanzadeh (2013)
24. "Underneath the Tree" by Kelly Clarkson and Greg Kurstin (2013)
25. "Run Rudolph Run" by Johnny Marks and Marvin Brodie (1958)

As we continue to celebrate holiday music, it's important to acknowledge the creative forces behind these songs. The process of crafting holiday music is not just about melodies and lyrics; it's about weaving together emotions and memories that resonate with listeners year after year.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the ASCAP New Classic Holiday Songs chart?

The ASCAP New Classic Holiday Songs chart showcases contemporary holiday hits released in the last quarter-century that have become favorites among listeners.

How is the ranking determined for the ASCAP holiday charts?

The rankings are based on the number of streams and plays songs receive, reflecting both original recordings and various covers by different artists.

Who are some of the featured artists in the 2025 top holiday songs?

Featured artists include Kelly Clarkson, Mariah Carey, Justin Bieber, Katy Perry, and Meghan Trainor among others.

What makes a holiday song a classic?

A holiday song is considered a classic when it resonates with listeners over the years, often evoking nostalgia and positive emotions associated with the holiday season.

How can I listen to the top holiday songs?

You can listen to the ASCAP top holiday songs on various music streaming platforms where they are available for playback.