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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- Songs you'll want to listen to in autumn. A selection of recommended hits from 80s Western music!
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Christmas songs from 80s Western music: from hit tracks to hidden gems (21–30)
Fairytale Of New YorkThe Pogues Featuring Kirsty MacColl
The lyrics are a bit heavy, but it’s known as a staple that ranks high on the UK charts every Christmas season.
It’s a Christmas song that’s very popular in the UK.
It’s the kind of number you’ll want to listen to intently in a quiet corner while the festivities are in full swing.
All Through The NightCyndi Lauper
Cyndi Lauper’s 1983 track features a memorable, refraining sound that evokes the chill of winter.
It’s included on her debut album, “She’s So Unusual,” and was released as a single the following year.
The arrangement conjures images of illuminations and the festive atmosphere of Christmas, which is wonderful.
It celebrates the joy of being able to stay out all night and fills you with a positive feeling.
It’s a romantic Christmas song that makes you feel as if you could be reborn into a new version of yourself.
1980s Western Christmas songs: from hit tracks to hidden gems (31–40)
Merry Christmas EverybodySlade
Slade is a rock band from Wolverhampton that began performing during the early-1970s glam rock era.
They were called one of the most successful British groups of the 1970s.
Their 1985 release, “Merry Xmas Everybody,” was a major hit at the time and is recorded as having sold over one million copies.
Merry ChristmasThe Ramones
The Ramones are a punk rock band formed in 1974.
As one of the most popular acts in punk rock and a quintessential New York punk band, they helped spark the later punk boom.
In recognition of their achievements, they were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2002, and ranked 26th on Rolling Stone’s list of the 100 Greatest Artists.
Their song “Merry Christmas,” released in 1989, is a Christmas track that features a distinctive sound blending elements of the ’80s and ’90s.
Funky Funky ChristmasNew Kids On Tha Block
New Kids on the Block, the boy band that scored a worldwide smash with “Step By Step.” Their catchy pop sound won them widespread popularity, and they kept delivering hits throughout the ten years from 1984 to 1994.
It’d be great to see them reunite again.
Their “Funky Funky Christmas” is one of their signature holiday songs, packed with that classic ’80s sound and crafted with a distinctly American vibe.
Christmas (Baby Please Come Home)U2
U2 is a rock band from Ireland.
They are one of the most famous rock bands in the world and hold the record for the most Grammy Awards won by a group.
Their music is characterized by a strong focus on social issues, with a clear message running through their work.
Because of this emphasis on messaging, each concert is built around a different theme, and the live performance unfolds according to that theme.
Both their songs and live shows are highly acclaimed.
Their Christmas song, “Christmas (Baby Please Come Home),” is a cover of Darlene Love’s classic.
Since the original has a soulful melody, be sure to compare it with U2’s arrangement.
Christmas TimeBryan Adams
Bryan Adams is a singer-songwriter who represents Canada.
His song “Christmas Time” is one of his signature Christmas tracks and was released in 1985.
It was already very popular, but its popularity resurged after the official video was uploaded to YouTube in 2019.
Even now, the song gets airplay on English-language radio stations during the Christmas season.
Be sure to check it out.