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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Christmas songs from 80s Western music: from hit tracks to hidden gems (21–30)
She Won’t Be HomeNEW!Erasure
This is a Christmas song by Erasure, the synth-pop duo of Vince Clarke and Andy Bell.
Included on their 1988 EP “Crackers International,” the track reached No.
2 on the UK charts.
Set against shimmering synthesizers, it poignantly expresses the sadness and loneliness of spending Christmas alone.
On a winter night without your loved one, the imagery—like quietly falling snow—will seep into your heart.
It’s a perfect song for when you want to feel a Christmas tinged not only with sparkle but with a touch of bittersweetness.
A redux version is also included on their 2013 album “Snow Globe,” offering a more refined soundscape.
All I Want For Christmas Is My GirlNEW!New Edition
Since their debut with “Candy Girl” in 1983, New Edition have stood as one of the quintessential boy groups of the ’80s with their catchy pop sound and polished vocal harmonies.
Featured on their 1985 holiday EP “Christmas All Over the World,” this song is a love ballad that declares spending time with a sweetheart—not presents or dazzling decorations—as the true wish of Christmas.
Its era-defining, synth-driven arrangement and sweet, interwoven harmonies create a soothing resonance.
It’s the perfect track to set a romantic mood on Christmas Eve with someone special.
It Wasn’t His ChildNEW!Sawyer Brown
Formed in 1981 as a country music band, Sawyer Brown has long centered its career on live performances.
Featured on their 1988 album Wide Open, this song is a hymn-like Christmas piece written by songwriter Skip Ewing.
Told from the perspective of Joseph in the Bible, it explores themes of fatherhood and faith in accepting a child who is not his by blood.
Its calm sound, beginning with a gentle acoustic guitar, evokes a reverent, devotional atmosphere.
Although it peaked modestly at No.
51 on the charts, it has been covered by artists such as Trisha Yearwood and Reba McEntire and continues to be cherished.
It’s a song best savored on a quiet night.
Merry, Merry ChristmasNew Kids On The Block
A song brimming with Christmas spirit delivers the full charm of New Kids on the Block.
Their desire to share joy and love with people around the world is expressed through a breezy melody and warm vocals.
Featured on the album “Merry, Merry Christmas,” released in September 1989, this track reached No.
9 on the Billboard 200 chart.
The lyrics, infused with the magic of Christmas, the unique beauty of the season, and a wish for peace, gently wrap around the listener’s heart.
It’s the perfect song for a Christmas party or as background music for cozy family time.
Jingle Bell RockDaryl Hall & John Oates
Daryl Hall & John Oates is a blue-eyed soul group formed in 1969 by Daryl Hall and John Oates.
Although they debuted in the 1970s, they have continued to perform for many years and are still active today, even in their seventies.
Their version of “Jingle Bell Rock” is an arrangement of the song originally released by Bobby Helms in the 1950s, enhanced with R&B and soul elements.
Be sure to compare it with the original.
Another Lonely ChristmasPrince
Prince, who sadly passed away in 2016, was an extraordinarily intelligent person and even appeared as a commentator on economics-themed programs during his lifetime.
His music is intricately crafted, reflecting that intellect, and the songs he left behind remain as fresh as ever.
One such Christmas song by this legendary artist is Another Lonely Christmas.
Its melody is reminiscent of his signature hit Purple Rain, so be sure to give it a listen.
Driving Home For ChristmasChris Rea
A classic distinguished by a heartwarming melody that’s perfect for the Christmas season.
This song portrays the joy and anticipation of returning home, with a lyrical piano tone and Chris Rea’s warm vocals leaving a strong impression.
Although it was released in 1988 as a single from the album “New Light Through Old Windows,” it was actually recorded in 1986.
There’s also an intriguing anecdote that the idea came to him while stuck in traffic, observing the expressions of other drivers.
With a gentle tone that embraces the feelings of people heading back to their families or loved ones for Christmas, it’s a track you’ll want to play in the car on your way home.