Christmas songs from 80s Western music: from hit tracks to hidden gems
The music scene of the ’80s has a kind of sparkling image, whether we’re talking about Western music or Japanese music.
Given that era, it’s only natural that countless classic Christmas songs were born around the most glamorous and romantic event of the year.
While Japan and the West view Christmas somewhat differently, this article showcases many Western Christmas songs that were hits in the 1980s.
From those perennial standards you hear in Japan every holiday season to lesser-known hidden gems and covers of standards, we’ve gathered a wide range—from sweet tunes to slightly bittersweet numbers—to bring you a comprehensive lineup!
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80s Western Christmas songs: from hit tracks to hidden gems (71–80)
Peace On Earth / Little Drummer BoyBing Crosby, David Bowie
This song is known as a masterpiece born from an unlikely pairing.
Bing Crosby’s rich, resonant voice and David Bowie’s clear vocals create a wonderfully balanced harmony.
The structure, which blends a traditional carol with a new composition, beautifully expresses the warmth of Christmas and a wish for peace.
Recorded in September 1977 and released as a single in 1982 after Crosby’s sudden passing, it became a major hit, reaching No.
3 in the UK, and has continued to be cherished in North America as a Christmas staple.
Enjoyable across generations, this piece is perfect for the holiday season—an ideal soundtrack for warm moments with family and friends.
Run Rudolph RunBryan Adams
With its fun “ran-ran” ring to it, Run Rudolph Run is a great pick when you’re in the mood for a bright Christmas song! The original is by Chuck Berry.
It’s famous for having been covered by many artists, and this version is a cover by Canadian rock musician Bryan Adams.
Johnny Marks, who composed the original, also worked on Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer.
In that sense, too, it’s bursting with energy—the hustle and bustle of December days is vividly expressed.
The guitar riff is fantastic, and it’s a Christmas song that’s sure to spark that rock ’n’ roll exhilaration!
Christmas and GlasgowDeacon Blue
This is a wistful pop-rock song woven from a heart-touching melody and poetic lyrics, set against the backdrop of wintertime Glasgow.
It was first included on Deacon Blue’s 1991 tribute album “The Tree and the Bird and the Fish and the Bell,” and later featured on their 1999 album “Walking Back Home.” Ricky Ross’s warm vocals delicately convey memories and emotions from quiet Christmas nights in the city.
The inclusion of traditional Scottish flute adds a strong sense of local color.
It’s a track for winter nights that comforts those who carry nostalgia for the past and the ache of lost love.
Life In A Northern TownDream Academy
A heartwarming, folk-tinged song depicting life in a small northern town.
Weaving in scenes like a Salvation Army band, kids selling lemonade, and historical events such as the Kennedy assassination and the rise of the Beatles, it evokes a nostalgic atmosphere.
Included on The Dream Academy’s 1985 debut album, it became a major hit, reaching No.
15 in the UK and No.
7 in the US.
Pink Floyd’s David Gilmour took part in the production, contributing to its distinctive sound.
It’s a perfect track for when you want to bask in nostalgia or unwind at a relaxed pace.
She Won’t Be HomeErasure
This is a Christmas song by Erasure, a British electropop band with a strong following in Europe and North America.
It appears on the 1988 EP “Crackers International” and the 2013 holiday album “Snow Globe.” The shimmering, quintessentially ’80s soundscape is beautiful.
Alongside the glittering scenes of a city Christmas, the bittersweet feeling of spending it alone quietly resonates.
Its pristine sound makes you want to listen to it in a snowy landscape.
On Christmas Day, when you long to be with someone you care about, this song will be there to keep you company.
Winter WonderlandEurythmics
This number, to which Eurythmics have added their own interpretation of a classic that celebrates winter’s magical scenery, is a track that evokes the distinctive musical style of the ’80s.
Annie Lennox’s powerful yet warm vocals beautifully capture the fun and romance of the winter season.
Released in 1987 on the album “A Very Special Christmas,” the song employs synthesizers and electronic beats, giving a modern twist to a classic tune.
The lyrics, which depict building snowmen and sharing dreams by the fire, convey the warmth and intimacy of winter and warm the listener’s heart.
It’s a lovely song to color the time spent with loved ones during the Christmas season.
The Holly and The IvyGeorge Winston
“The Holly and The Ivy,” a masterpiece by George Winston, one of the most famous pianists in the United States.
It’s a piece that emphasizes the New Age (healing) style he excels at.
In the latter part, sounds influenced by R&B and jazz make an appearance.